While we’re consistently blown away by the quality of the music that comes into our inbox, every so often we receive something truly singular. I’m not sure exactly what I was expecting when I hit play on Hio’s new single “Buttafi,” but any preconceptions I may have harbored were quickly rendered irrelevant. Blending off-kilter hip-hop with jazzy chords and soulful hooks (courtesy of guest vocalist Asi kemera), the artist and producer presents the listener with a series of mutating grooves, each more loose and fluid than the last.
At first listen, the track reminded me of Kendrick Lamar at his most laid-back and nostalgic, but further inspection led me to rethink that assessment. Whereas the beauty of Lamar lies in his tangled narratives and furious rhymes, “Buttafi” finds its strength in its impressionistic ambiance and bright, free-flowing energy. Given his quirky vibes and adventurous production, it’s not surprising that Hio looks to artists like Kamasi Washington and Tyler, the Creator for inspiration. Although, to hear him explain it, the roots of “Buttafi” extend much deeper.
“I was listening to a ton of jazz records and of course I went back to Giant Steps by Coltrane,” Hio says. “I remember feeling like I wanted to embody something just as smooth, quick, and effortless as that record.”
Listen below.
Hio’s forthcoming EP Melted Bedroom Corners is due out in early December via Fada Records.
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SoundCloud: @hiiio