Story by: Anthony Haverland
If you're a fan of "conscious rap" (hate that term, but you get what I'm saying) then the Albany, GA native, Cantrell, needs to be on your 2021 playlists. His latest project, Beware the Sheep Clothing EP dropped in February, and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
The former Mass Appeal artist breathes life back into the art of conscious rap, so it comes as no surprise that he was signed to the Nas-led record label, known for pushing sharp lyricist and skillful storytellers. Storytelling is paramount for any great artist, and Cantrell has the gene.
The EP opens with the song Hear Me Now, and that's exactly what Cantrell forces us to do. The beat sounds like New York, and even though Cantrell originates from the country roots of South Georgia, you can't help but be reminded of 90's New York hip-hop when you hear this track.
He airs out all of his grievances with white people profiting off our culture, but refusing to say anything when we're being shot down in the streets by folks sworn to protect us. He even includes a clip of a young Denzel Washington talking about Malcolm X's vigilance and strategies for achieving equality.
Cantrell up's the anti even more on This Time Around, reminding listeners that "you're either with the oppressed or the oppressor."
I think we past all the subtle reminders
I need more than Harris & Biden when battlin' serpents and vipers
So much of mainstream hip-hop today is driven by catchy, often repetitive, hooks. Cantrell's EP really forces you to listen to his lyrics, which was truly refreshing.
Where's The Love?
It's surprising to me that Cantrell truly hasn't hit yet. After signing with Mass Appeal, I thought we'd see more traction for him. It could be that there just isn't much of a market for his style of rap anymore. It can be difficult to bring a nostalgic style into the mainstream. Nevertheless, I am still optimistic for his future.
Check out Cantrell's new video for This Time Around:
Final Thoughts
I'm going to have to give Beware the Sheep Clothing a 4.7 out of 5-star rating. Cantrell's voice, flow, and delivery are smooth, and his messages of Black liberation are nothing short of inspiring. If you haven't already, go stream all five tracks today!