The best part about being a writer is discovering dope new music; this week I was put on to an artist who—though far from new—was new to my radar. Chicago-born Real Talk The Metaphor Messiah, currently living in Vegas, dropped a new project entitled King Slayer Turned King, and I’m here for it!
At seven songs in length, the record feels kind of like tuning into season six of an HBO series and hoping to catch on. Not that you get lost—as there isn’t any continuity-based conceptual songwriting happening. Instead, he is exceptionally polished, lending to the fact that this isn’t his first project, and much of the non-rapping dialogue focuses on his legacy.
I did some digging around before giving the LP a third spin; he has a lot of great material in his catalog; what stands out is his diversity, traversing empowering content, social commentary, and good old fashioned bars. It doesn’t necessarily subscribe to a particular lane, so I’m having a difficult time making specific comparisons, but check out these records for a great idea of what he’s on.
“A lot of artists come out and only talk about one thing … and that one thing isn’t something they live.”
—Real Talk
Now, a few facts that will add context to his new project. First is his relationship with producer Geesus. “[We’ve been working together for] about ten years … he’s been doing my beats for a long time, and he’s my best friend,” he tells AAHH. This is vital, as he produces most of the LP, and he also has an interlude.
The second fact, back in 2016 he lost his eyesight for about seven months—something he overcame after having surgery to reattach his retinas. It’s something that comes up quite a bit on the project and isn’t just a metaphor…it’s a literal reference to an experience that profoundly changed his outlook.
“God MC’s don’t die,” he states on the outro of the opening track, “Hip Hop Is Mine.” The record has a serious bop—and Real Talk is in his pocket off the rip. His bars and delivery are on point. “Niggas all fake fucking You-Tube rappers,” he raps.
“War Games” is another standout. With a super interesting instrumental—the sample almost has a regal feel to it.
“Baal” is a dope track; Real Talk has a 90s Hip Hop influence—and this instrumental and flow highlight that. This one was (according to what I’ve been able to ascertain) was the first track he laid down following his Euro tour.
He gave this one a visual treatment, check that out below.
Look, at seven tracks (a few of which are interludes) it’s a light listen that begs for a few complete run throughs. His catalog of visuals are impressive; not only is quality there, but the plays are crazy. Also—again—he’s touring and making noise. As the project ends with the piano-driven title track, he solidifies himself as a voice that will lead us to the “truth.” Whether or not you honestly believe that, he’ll point you in a different, more positive direction than plenty of records forced into your personal space.
Give it a spin.