‘Lately‘ is the excellent Hip Hop release from US emcee Original Flow as he speaks on an important topic that is often swept under the rug. Not anymore.
Oklahoma-based Hip Hop artist, poet and producer Original Flow is following in his father’s MC footsteps, and continues to defy mainstream music molds through conscious lyrics of positivity and triumph.
‘Blackmankidboy‘ is the debut album to come from Original Flow and this song is featured in this release. A story of black vulnerability, resilience, and triumph, the 14 track album speaks on the imminent threat to Black life and the freedom of celebrating “the black boy joy” through it all.
Working with producer Richard Adams and DJ Triple Eight, the album sees Original Flow work through personal trauma and depression after he lost his mother to cancer. The album is a juxtaposition between the joy found in his creative team and the depression and anxiety caused by his personal grief.
This depression is further explored in the video for ‘Lately‘ which was filmed in Original Flow’s own house and bathtub and aims to normalize black men expressing vulnerability.
Also a member of experimental Hip Hop group The Fervent Route which mixes the styles of A Tribe called Quest and The Roots, Original Flow has dedicated his life to creating hip hop. Using his career to give back to the community, he has raised funds for terminally ill children, helped to equip classrooms with resources and more recently has given talks to help black students who are getting ready to enter predominantly white colleges.
In his music, Original Flow gives a truly organic on-stage delivery and distinctive “Old School” feel that has gained him an impressive following in his hometown, making him an exciting one to watch.
I love this artist’s message as he is truly one of the good guys. He makes music that means something and is not doing it for the fame and all that is attached that fake and crazy world. This is a true emcee who speaks on his feeling and fears here and for this, he must be celebrated. This is all about feeling about what you are doing and being conscious about it.
Original Flow flows with such realness on ‘Lately‘ and this is a fine release from an emcee/poet who is thoughtful and he helps others. This is the type of music that needs to be heard all over the world due to its real message. A brave video indeed.
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Reviewed by Llewelyn Screen