Dom Kennedy swam to the surface unexpectedly by dropping a surprise EP on few days ago, and so far the reception is positive. A case can be made for Dom Kennedy rarely disappointing, but never wowing his critics either. But those who love him really tap into his simplified aesthetic. The West Coast stereotyping ring true for Dom, especially when he's running his meter in a pattern of mild brags, through half sets of rhyme. It doesn't hurt when Smoke DZA shows up either.
On "Duplex" Dom Kennedy invites his friend from NY to pour up and sit still for a minute. On "Traveling," the 2nd cut on Addicted to the Underground, a Stevie Wonder proverb gives way to a short a intermission, but here DZA doesn't compromise for wishful thinking. Sometimes a rapper's natural inflection is a longstanding proverb, like they have something to prove or get off their chest. I guess for Smoke DZA sitting on knowledge is an excruciating cross to bear. Dom on the other hand is glad he chose the independent circuit. There's no point in giving the label half unless you own a twelve car garage.
Listen to the full tape right here.
Quotable Lyrics:
If only all these daps could amount to product
Never compromise my brand with risky instincts
Business man sitting in business class
6 hour flight and I slept the whole way
Don't hate doggy, do better
-Smoke DZA