Review Summary: Obnoxiously diverse.
There is something scintillating about the Norwegian music industry. Whether it is A-HA's cold Scandinavian synth-pop in the 80's, Nico and Vinz reinventing afropop for the charts with the hit "Am I wrong", or Kygo creating a dominant sub genre of Tropical House at EDM's commercial peak. When it comes to hip hop though it has been quiet from the small but influential country. Much unlike it's neighbouring country Sweden who impacted the genre with dramatic effect after the resurgence of the innovative internet-rapper Yung Lean in the early 2010's. At a time when Hip-Hop was flourishing with notable new acts and subgenres every other week, Hip-Hop has now hit a stalemate with trap-artist’s seeking short term success rather than building long term visions. Peaking this year with almost every major player in the trap game dropping an album seemingly emulating each other and creating an inflation in the market of hundreds of tracks sounding more or less similar. The genre is in dire need of new influences, and fast!
Cue Pasha, a 23-year old Norwegian-Iranian rapper from the outskirts of Oslo.
Performing at underground clubs and parties from a young age, Pasha developed his craft and quickly turned his live shows into the hottest thing in Norway. So much so that he got noticed by famed rapper 6ix9ine who announced him as a special guest at his show in the capital Oslo. Similar to 6ix9ine, rapper Pasha boasts an unique flow and delivery combined with a similar "IDGAF" attitude that really shows both lyrically and visually.
On PARK. Pasha is at his most obnoxious lyrically but always manages to keep a humoristic undertone. This keeps the record lighthearted and easy to listen to with Pasha dropping sexual punchlines that would make even Lil Wayne proud, like rapping "Baby, I'm for real, tell me how you feel/ Bitch, let's get it if you looking for the kill" on standout opening track "P.Y.G.". The standout tracks on the album are many, like when Pasha mixes Indie elements with 90's guitars and chill synths on "Purple Pudding", or the deliciously funky and uptempo "Prettyboi Bounce" where Soul Gem delivers one of the best hooks of the year. My personal favourite on the album "Woods" sees the tempo stepped down a notch, creating a mystic and cold but chill atmosphere that sees rising indie star Jimi Somewhere laying down a great feature that will give you goosebumps. Overall the production value on the album is great all the way through, with grammy-nominated producer Coucheron being the most prominent throughout.
The real strength of the album is in it's diversity, blending different musical influences and genres creating a truly enjoyable listen all the way through in a genre desperate for innovation and "freshness". Pasha has truly created an album that will stand the test of time, and continue to advocate Norway as a country to look to for musical innovation.
