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Marcus Smith – Permeate
Marcus Smith Loves Beyond Limits with “Permeate”
Cleveland’s own Marcus Smith triumphantly returns with “Permeate,” his second single of 2025, stepping back into the spotlight since his remarkable 2023 LP, Unique Mélange. This track isn’t simply a love song; it is an authentic, Boom Bap inspired, Retro Soul-infused homage to his wife. Smith’s lyrical exploration showcases his distinctive fusion of personal depth with an artful touch, deviating from the conventions of modern rap narratives.
In a beautiful blend of mediums, the music video was filmed at the Cleveland Museum of Art, capturing the very spirit of the track. This setting, much like the composition of “Permeate”, intertwines his affinity for the arts with intimate moments shared in a lyrical journey. With production collaboration between Marcus in Cleveland and FLX in Inverness, UK, the single boasts a geographically diverse creation that echoes in every beat. “I didn’t know I could love this much,” Smith articulates in the chorus, resonating with the passion layered in this emotional release.
DARNELL – Play It Again
“Play It Again”: A Raw Confession Wrapped in Sound
DARNELL, once a household name for all the wrong reasons, is stripping back the layers of fame with his debut single “Play It Again,” a heartfelt confession rather than a glitzy comeback. Known from his stint on Big Brother UK, DARNELL steps away from the spotlight to deliver an emotionally riveting track that blends Hip-Hop, R&B, and subtle Drum & Bass — a genre-blurring soundscape that mirrors his internal conflict.
With lyrics pledging accountability and vulnerability, “Play It Again” offers listeners a Drum N Bass / Jungle Emo Rap journey that resonates with anyone grappling with regret. DARNELL’s soft-spoken vocal delivery underlines the delicacy and tension of his narrative, confiding the shame and hope for redemption.
After a personal collapse, DARNELL rebuilt himself, eschewing ego for the hard road of therapy and reflection. This single is a testament to his transformation, a sincere apology, and a full-circle moment for an artist emerging from the shadows to finally reclaim his voice.
Torrio – Demons
Unraveling the Soul with US RAP: Torrio’s “Demons”
Hailing from the serene landscapes of Newberry, Torrio emerges not only as a multi-talented artist but as a beacon of hope through his latest single, “Demons,” released on July 4th, 2025. This track ventures deep into the personal gallows of anxiety and light depression, revealing Torrio’s vulnerability and resilience. With heartfelt lyrics and rich, soulful melodies, “Demons” goes beyond mere musical expression; it’s an anthem of solidarity for those battling their inner turmoil.
Torrio’s hands-on approach is apparent as he both wrote and produced the track, crafting a personal narrative that captures the essence of US RAP’s raw storytelling tradition. In his own words, “I will not let the anxiety ‘Demons’ ruin my life!” This mantra permeates the track, echoing his determination and making it a ritual for listeners seeking solace in shared struggles. His endeavor from his self-assembled studio in Florida ensures that “Demons” stands as a testament to grit and artistic authenticity, resonating deeply with fans across the globe.
handles tdnb – Pressure on the Curb
West London’s Authentic Voice Rises
The rising star of West London hip-hop, Handles TDNB, is on the brink of a new chapter with his EP “Pressure on the Curb.” This independent artist recently captured the #1 spot on the iTunes UK Hip-Hop Pre-Orders Chart. Handles TDNB’s journey, encapsulated by his lead single “The Style Of Life,” brings an authentic lofi hip-hop sound that echoes his experiences and challenges.
“Pressure on the Curb” dives into the poignant realities of urban life, with a gritty yet poetic narrative reminiscent of the golden era of hip-hop. Handles’s music is more than beats and rhymes; it’s a testimonial to his perseverance from selling 100,000+ CDs hand-to-hand to storming stages at Wembley SSE and SOBs NYC. His journey encapsulates the indomitable spirit of grassroots hustle and community support. As he aptly says, “Style is survival,” poignantly capturing the pressure—and shine—his music exudes. This release is poised to affirm his status in the independent music scene, promising soundtracks of life lived on the edge yet colored with the resilience of hope and triumph.
Revoh Wattz – Defcon 0 (Radio Edit)
Revoh Wattz Reimagines Boom Bap with “Defcon 0”
Revoh Wattz returns to the HIP-HOP scene with his electric new single, “Defcon 0 (Radio Edit).” Debuting live on 97.9 The Woo, the track has already found its groove on various playlists and blogs. Revoh, alongside collaborator Funky Flacco, crafts a vintage yet fresh sound that reintroduces classic boom bap to mainstream ears.
The track is a testament to Wattz’s dedication to authentic rap, featuring influences from hip-hop legends like 9th Wonder and DJ Premier, while embodying the lyricism of A Tribe Called Quest and Atmosphere. Defcon 0 captures the raw nostalgia of the genre’s golden era, while still making room for creative evolution with real organic grooves and modern touches.
Recorded in his home studio, Wattz ensures that his craft is undistorted genuine HIP-HOP—proving you don’t need a million dollars to create phenomenal music. With an entire album set for release on April 11th, Revoh Wattz is poised to offer more refreshing anthems that blend the past with the future.
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