Real Friends — word to Kanye. JV and TEEJ have been down since the fourth grade. Together they’ve released two full-length albums, and a host of solo work; so, it’s safe to say they’re seasoned performers. Now, they’re back with their third album, Stay Fresh: The JV & TEEJ Project. Thus far, the release is creating a strong buzz in their hometown and garnering attention from local DJs/Radio Stations.
Here’re the goods; the project is eight tracks long, and is — for the most part — pretty consistent. The duo is no stranger to live performances, and that comes across throughout the project. Sonically, it has a live hip-hop/funk soundscape that would lend itself well to live instrumentation. The first single that jumped out was “Mixtape,” which was an ode to both classic hip-hop of yesteryear, and a theme song for all of the hip-hop junkie backpackers who never left home without their walkman back in the day. The second joint that held my attention was “Classic,” which had not only a dope electro beat, but a crazy female vocal/sample throughout that kept it knocking. “Trying to write a future classic,” they state in the hook, as they flatly put their ambition on the table. The album on a whole reinforces that they not only couldn’t stay away [they were on a hiatus] but that they also have a deep rooted love and passion for music that can’t be erased. Some of this is addressed on the project’s closer, “We Back.”
“The Chase,” is another joint that has a funky live vibe to it — perfect for the patio with a few beers. Although it had the second most plays on their Soundcloud, I wasn’t as big a fan of “All On The Line” — it didn’t seem to fit the overall vibe of the project. In general, though, it’s a good listen, and a good look for JV and TEEJ. Keep an eye on them, and add this to your playlist this weekend.
