KOBeats, the 17-year-old musical newcomer from Lancashire, UK, has just unleashed his debut EP, "Find the Light," featuring the resonant vocals of Kelsie McArdle and the dynamic rap of No_Peace. This marks KOBeats' inaugural release, leaving us intrigued about the enigmatic producer's identity.

Navigating through the beats of the album, we encounter a rich tapestry that weaves together elements of old-school hip-hop, modern trap/drill influences, and classic boom bap. Despite the EP's brevity, KOBeats and his collaborators skillfully maintain a cohesive vibe. Kelsie McArdle's vocals, often presenting catchy hooks, transport us to the reminiscent tones of classic hip-hop, evoking echoes of iconic tracks like "Stan," where Dido lent her voice to the chorus - a feature we don’t see as often these days.

The nostalgic interplay of sung hooks and rapped verses, once a staple in hip-hop, resurfaces with Kelsie and No_Peace. Kelsie's vocal twang resonates with the vibes of artists like Lily Allen, capturing the essence of mid to late noughties fame. No_Peace, who happens to be KOBeats' father, delivers intriguing rap verses covering themes of survival, systemic injustice, and more. The parent-son collaboration, while seemingly unorthodox, echoes a familiar theme in the music industry, akin to renowned family names like Frank & Nancy Sinatra or Will & Jaden Smith.

The EP commences with the socially charged "Keep Us Down," delving into contemporary issues such as the COVID lockdown, the cost of living crisis, and various other recent societal challenges. In just over four minutes, the song encapsulates these events, articulating truths that resonate with a wide audience.

"Find The Light" narrates the journey of a rapper seeking to rediscover himself. As the title implies, the track revolves around the theme of finding enlightenment, reflecting on moments of self-doubt. While hinting at the potential loss of interest, the song conveys a resurgence of energy, akin to discovering a glimmer of hope at the end of a tunnel.

Shifting to a more positive tone, "Natural High" brings a vibrant atmosphere. Infused with humor and a lack of self-seriousness, "No Peace" adds an element of playfulness with clever metaphors, reminiscent of the style found in Eminem's tracks. Producer Kobe introduces a reggae-style technique, enhancing the overall dynamic of the production.

The EP concludes with "Jimmy," a poignant narrative portraying the downward spiral of a troubled teenager. Engaging in drugs and violence to establish street credibility, the character's realization of his own vulnerability leads to a tragic path of escalating violence and, ultimately, murder. The closing lyrics, delivered by Kelsie McArdle, serve as a stark reminder of the fleeting nature of one's legacy: "But when you're gone, they won't remember your name".

Turning our attention to the sound selection and beats, KOBeats, at the tender age of 17, showcases a remarkable skill set. Each sound finds its rightful place within the composition, with some tracks featuring organic snares/kicks and others adopting a more modern approach with 808s and clacky rimshots. The presence of strings and pianos piques interest regarding their origin, whether sampled or not, yet their seamless integration into the tracks is undeniable.

In its entirety, the EP exudes a vibe reminiscent of the fusion found in Professor Green, Lily Allen, and Emily Sandé, coupled with the raw intensity reminiscent of Plan B's "Who Needs Actions When You Got Words" album.

KOBeats' accelerated artistic journey, commencing in January 2023 and culminating in the completion of all four tracks for "Find the Light" by May of the same year, suggests a promising trajectory. This rapid turnover rate, if sustained, hints at a future filled with potential.

As we champion emerging artists, a note of caution and advice is extended. Many aspiring musicians face the pitfalls of ineffective marketing and time wastage on social media. The music industry demands relentless effort and strategic time investment. KOBeats, a musical natural and fast learner, has the potential to succeed, especially if coupled with the hustle required to invest time wisely. In the relentless grind toward success, the key lies in letting time be invested purposefully and dedicating oneself to the craft of music. For a producer like KOBeats, who embodies both musical prowess and a hustler's spirit, success seems like an inevitable outcome in the challenging world of music.

Listen on Spotify.

Author: Martín Cacho

Martín is a video game composer, producer and writer from Sonora, México.