When I first heard of TORII WOLF through debut single, ‘Free’ somehow I was compelled by the too-cool-for-school raspy vocals against the bass-driven number. Releases ‘Big Big Trouble’ and ‘Pain Killer’ followed and I was totally hooked!
The next big release was the 15-track production coming in the form of ‘Flow Riiot’, produced by DJ Premier (so you know you’re really onto a good thing here).
An atmospherically dreamy sample of The Messenger’s 60s funk/soul classic, ‘California Soul’, leads the set through ‘Everlasting Peace’ – and from there, a range of genres were introduced – from alternative hip-hop to piano/violin-led arrangements. ‘Take It Up On Monday’ is definitely one for the nostalgics as the three-minute production brings on that old school/rare groove laid-back vibe. Possessing heavy influence hip-hop/boom bap of late 80s/early 90s, ‘Shadows Crawl’ will be the one for the serious hip-hop heads’ collection.
‘Flow Riiot’ ends on smooth note with ‘Moscow’. Led by the acoustic guitar, Torii adds an inexplicable magic, creating a real stellar singer-songwriter approach to the production.
It’s sure a mix bag of pleasure and anyone who enjoys listening to makeovers of old genres will have at least one favourite. Through ‘Flow Riiot’, this New Yorker has more than proved that her Throaty yet delicate instrument has that across the board appeal.
You’re here now…might as well check it out….
Must listens: Meant To Do, 1st, Body, Take It Up On Monday, Moscow
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