Scabb - "Nada" EP review by Alison Hawkins

SCABB - “NADA” EP

KCK hip hop artist Scabb released his debut EP, Nada, on November 6 via Manor Records and I haven’t stopped listening since. This record isn’t simply listenable; it’s demanding of multiple listens. All six tracks are entirely written, recorded, performed, and mixed by Sammy Hernandez, who’s quickly proven his multifaceted talents as a clever lyricist, beat-maker, status quo criticizer, and party-bringer. Scabb uses catchy, experimental samples, combined with sick rhythms, and carefully metered poetry, to ironically and genuinely shed light on Latinx American experiences, stereotypes, pride, and belonging (see album artwork: piñatas, sombrero, and bandolier.) I can’t get enough of Scabb’s sweet melodic hooks in “Legs.” I also dig “Think, more. Bare.” for its warped, soulful lick in both the intro and outro to sandwich his choice words and alliteration. His tender piano backdrop in “Belly Coast” provides a soft, shimmery accompaniment to harsher spoken raps: “If it ain’t ho hos and kisses, it’s virtual women / if that ain’t cocoa with cookies, I’ll settle for nothing.” I enjoy catching his casual, intermittent chuckles at himself, striking the perfect balance to his often raw, heavy, and even nostalgic subject matter. Scabb’s single, “Champagne Chutney,” contains a refreshing, yet dramatic mood change midway, with poetic repetition on a relatable theme, “It’s been some time since... / my work ain’t impressive.” His second single, “Honey Dew,” exquisitely samples a lovey-dovey, french oldie to uniquely close out the listening experience.

Believe me: it’s utterly one jam after another on Nada. You can support Scabb by purchasing his music on Bandcamp.

LISTEN NOW.

Review by :: Alison Hawkins

Blog contributor, True Lions founder, & kickball captain.

Manor Records gives 100% of article author rights to Alison Hawkins.