FR4NKIE unveils ‘Overview Effect’ – a masterpiece culminating years of artistic growth

FR4NKIE (Formerly known as: XP Burstgang) a prominent member of the UK Grime scene, has dropped his highly anticipated sophomore project, ‘Overview Effect,’ earlier this month (3rd May). This project stands as a testament to FR4NKIE’s life work, representing a stylistic evolution and maturity from his previous releases.

‘Overview Effect’ boasts an impressive lineup of underground collaborations, featuring artists such as LPNoID, Illy From Da NW Side, Cosmo Laurie, Trapson, Dizmack, Masovelli, and Manchester Hypes. Produced by bass music royalty Trolley Snatcha, this project is a sonic amalgamation that showcases FR4NKIE’s versatility, blending Road Rap and Grime influences with elements of folk and guitar music.

Tracks like ‘To Be Frank’ delve into the realities of street life in the UK, while ‘Brick In The Wall’ offers a fresh take on folk and guitar sounds. ‘Benzema’ introduces a unique twist to the traditional ballad, reflecting FR4NKIE’s diverse life experiences. The project in its entirety serves as a window into FR4NKIE’s mind, offering a polished listening experience that resonates differently with each music fan based on their own life experiences.

FR4NKIE has earned international recognition for his contributions to the Grime scene. His triumphs include memorable wins in genre-defining events like Lord of the Mics and Red Bull’s Grime-A-Side tournaments, solidifying his status as a heavyweight in the genre. Collaborations with esteemed figures such as Mike Skinner and President T underscore his influence and impact.

Beyond Grime, FR4NKIE has ventured into various musical territories, crafting a diverse discography that encompasses trap, drill, and boundary-pushing ballads. His latest project, ‘Overview Effect,’ serves as a testament to his evolution as an artist, melding streetwise narratives with introspective themes. Through his decade-long music career, FR4NKIE has amassed a wealth of experiences and influences, shaping him into a multifaceted force in the UK music scene.

Check out ‘Overview Effect’ below…

Must Listens: To Be Frank, Simon Says, Janis Joplin, Is That You Yeah, Mess

Song of the Day: Sea Son – Colin Manson

Scottish singer-songwriter COLIN MANSON‘s latest offering, ‘Sea Son’, is a powerful indie-folk ballad that is so compelling from the very first note.

A thoughtful lyricist and contemplative songwriter, Colin’s unique ocean sailing experience shines through in this heartfelt single. Each line from Colin’s thought-provoking lyrics takes the listener on a journey of self-reflection, making them linger over each line, savouring every moment of this captivating track.

Tasteful guitar melodies are accompanied by warm bowed double bass and enhanced further with ethereal female vocal harmonies, by fellow singer-songwriter Billie Maree, throughout the song. His subtle but powerful voice is carried by delicate instrumentation and simple drum beats which highlight the mellow vibe of this beautiful track.

On this song, Colin works with Chris Bond, platinum award winning producer and instrumentalist, who is featured on the drums. Have a listen to the stunning single…

Florida’s spitter Mercy is back with album, ‘Michaelangelo’

After months of anticipation backed by three singles, MeRCY has finally gifted the 12 piece offering of art, in the shape of album ‘Michelangelo’. Even with some technical difficulties on the upload, nothing could stop ‘Michelangelo’ as it hits all streaming services in full force. With the transfer complete and minds at peace we can now indulge on the latest album from the craftsman himself.

‘Michaelangelo’ begins on a high note with the record ‘Work Of Art’ as it sets the tone for the rest of the album. Backed by heavy drum & snare hits, MeRCY begins to paint his picture from his heart and painful scriptures. The track begins to boost your endorphins and that cycle continues to prove true throughout Michaelangelo, MeRCY says, “This project is meant to be emotionally charged. Each record was supposed to be compelling storytelling”.

With a vision in place and a mic in hand the south Florida native went to work. The sculptor compiled other artists and producers to help complete his work of art, giving them a brush so they can cement their own strokes of creativity. When asked about those moments behind the scenes MeRCY says, “The creation process behind this album was almost like free falling to an empty abyss of imagination. I can feel what I want or say what I want based on the production provided. I wanted the listener to capture the essence of that.” T.F, NapsNDreds, Yoamanduh, Four Square Miles, The Musalini & P. Hall help by providing their vocals to the record. Lebanon Don, Tone Spliff, Sebb Bash, Syer, Jake One, Odd Squad, Zino, DJ Wayne Ski, Kubo , SlimRock & the previously mentioned Black Metaphor lace their imprint behind the boards.

MeRCY has always been known as a lyricist and has never fallen short of expressing his interests regarding the world of art. He combines both within Michaelangelo, bringing to life an album that brings a visual lyricism of a musical art gallery. The artist says “I wanted the people that’s listening to picture the music and see the sounds of every record.” If MeRCY turned this final project in before the end of the semester with hopes of passing he’d get an A+ for simply creating a body of work that has no faults. Instead he’s a college dropout who’s playing college dropout, he’s always been in a class of his own even before getting out. He’s an artist who doesn’t need a class or book to make his mark in life, he’s doing just that with his book of rhymes and the art that comes from it.

Check out ‘Michaelangelo’ album below…

Must Listens: The Artist, Sketches (Color of Noise), Reality Show,Gallery Dept, Scribble In The Sky,

Song of the Day: My Why – Mumu Fresh

MUMU FRESH sings directly from the heart with ‘My Why’, which she describes as “a tribute to that person(s), place, or thing in your life that is your ‘WHY’”. The impassioned single is from her forthcoming LP The Healing, which will feature DJ Jazzy Jeff, 14KT, DJ Dummy, & more, & comes out on 19th April.

Mumu Fresh, aka Maimouna Youssef, is a Grammy Nominated singer, songwriter and emcee, and recipient of the Indigenous Music, Washington Area Music (WAMMIE) & Urban World Music Video awards. She’s worked with Busta Rhymes, Common, Black Thought of The Roots, Tobi Nwigwe & more, & has two NPR Tiny Desk performances under her belt.

Mumu also co-created the Recording Academy’s “Best Song For Social Change” trustee award, which went live in 2023 at the 66th Grammy Awards & was presented by The First Lady, Jill Biden.

Why not check out the lyric video to ‘My Why’ below…