Olivier Laurent, an Amityville-based Hip Hop and Soul artist, has released “Solin Anj”, a concept album based on his upcoming illustrated children’s book. The seven-song record was released on September 5th. Join me and let’s explore these songs in much more detail
The first song on the album is called “For a Long Time Pt2”. The song opens with a very interesting guitar melody before the rap starts. The character in the song talks about being in the dumps and even contemplating suicide but, somehow he pushed through till he started doing what really matters. Aside from these themes, the character asks to be believed in. The vocal performance in this song was quite special and the rap was very catchy and interesting. Not many rap songs talk about profound issues but, this is the type of song that actually does. This song was the perfect choice to kickstart the album
The next song is the album’s namesake “solin anj”. This song opens with a very beautiful melody before the rap begins. The song depicts a character who is letting someone important in his life know that he needs her. He lets her know that her love matters more than anything else. The vocal performance was unexpectedly wonderful. With the vocals and the rap combined, this song is an unbeatable experience
“Out of spite” is the third song on the album. This song features artist Kaeson Skrilla. The intro of this song is some very nice synthesized piano sounds. The persona in the song is letting his partner know that he doesn’t want to act out of spite, he lets her know that she is expendable so, she better start treating him right, or at least give him the bare minimum. Musically, we get a hard rap verse from both artists. With a packed arsenal of these two superstars, this song is a rocket that is going all the way to space and even beyond
Moving on, the next song is titled “I like it”. This song features Mister Yoos. The song opens with a very captivating melody and a laugh. This song is about a character who is in a bad relationship but, he stays with her because he likes her. We get a French rap in this song and, it was off the chain. This song was really thrilling and unforgettable.
“If you ask me” is the next song on the album. This song opens with a complex and dramatic melody. In this song, the character lets everyone know that he is everything he thinks he is and much, much more. Although he thinks he has imposter syndrome, he knows that he is worth everything good and is breaking through stereotypes
The rap was fast-paced but it was still easy to follow. This song was very exciting and takes you on a pleasant sonic trip
“Konpliman” is the name of the best song. This song features the wonderful Mister Yoos. This song is very foot-tapping right from the start. When you see the name Mister Yoos, you should know that you’re getting a prime French rap. Even if you don’t understand him, I guarantee that you will still have a fun time with this song. Six songs in, this album keeps hitting us after hit
The concluding song on the album is called “Sold Out”. This song opens in a foot-tapping way. The character in the song seems to be explaining that even though he is told that he sold out, he believes that there is an endgame, and selling out, is just part of the growing pains and a necessary evil. The rap was exciting as always and he merged his rap with the song in a way, that will make your jaw drop. It’s okay, but my jaw dropped, too. This incredible song, bids us listeners goodbye
Laurent wrote the album during a period of intense personal transition, and it serves as a grounded and therapeutic release for him. The sound is mature and conceptual, with influences from musicians such as Digable Planets, Phonte, and Mos Def. It is distinguished by emotional clarity and lyric depth. Each tune has a distinct emotional tone, resulting in a rich listening experience that spans life’s various stages.
This album is a strong and emotionally evocative concept album inspired by his upcoming illustrated children’s book with the same title. Solin Anj accompanies a children’s book that addresses parents directly. The project explores the emotional journey of introducing a new life into the world through the eyes of a kid about to be born. Through this distinct viewpoint, the album highlights the sensitive and complex moments that come with being a parent, loaded with anxiety, hope, love, and transformation. I lived for every moment in this album and I will never forget it. I implore you to listen to this record and fall in love with this raw and unbreakable talent
Stream the “ Solin Anj” album on Spotify
Follow Solin Anj on Instagram
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