Hi everyone. Time once again for Demo Reviews. A labor of love (and hate) I do for the people cause , apparently some of you care what i think.
I’m currently accepting submissions. If you’re interested in that Read THIS. It’s the rules and info of where to send the music.
Anyway, these reviews work like so: I listen to a song, write a paragraph or two on what I think, the arbitrarily rate the songs from 1-10 in these categories:
Production
Vocals
Listenability
Originality
That’s about it. Godspeed. This week has few joints I kinda liked so that, in itself, is a small victory. Don’t forget to vote for your favorite at the bottom.

Artist: Kenora
Song: No Prom

This is one of those demos I can see what they’re going for, hear the potential , but it just needs a little tightening of the screws. The Main issue being the mix and the vocal effects used. I realize the effects are done on purpose but it turns the vocals into a secondary thought that almost get grating at times when that reverb gets too airy. The production is pretty simple and fits the song. I don’t love the mix in general in this one but I feel like, with the right engineer, it could be turned into something pretty decent. It’s close to being ready to be in a commercial where someone is jumping into a pool in slow motion.
Production:4.5 out of 10
Vocals:4.5 out of 10
Listenability:5 out of 10
Originality:5 out of 10

Artist:The Problem Child
Song: Audacity

The beat is almost dope but the held note style gets really grating. sounds like a phone off a hook. When the little switch up comes, it’s like a very satisfying moment that’s not used NEARLY enough. I’d actually so focus on that part more than the held note.
The rapping is fine. Didn’t jump out to me a great or bad really. Passably decent. It’s 2016. Lots of people can rap. I think what makes someone special is not sounding like anything else, which is not easy.
Production:4.5 out of 10
Vocals:5 out of 10
Listenability:4.5 out of 10
Originality:4 out of 10

Artist:Dayleaux
Song: Afrodite (ft. Rey Morado)


The rapper kinda reminds me of one of the dudes from the Goodie Mobb. He’s got a southern gruffness to him that works for me. I can’t say, lyrically, he’s doing anything special but his presence is cool. The beat is dope. Nice loops, good change ups, dope vibe. I fucks with this.
Production:6 out of 10
Vocals:6 out of 10
Listenability:6.5 out of 10
Originality:4.5 out of 10

Artist: Lamon Manuel
Song: Even the King wants to kill the King

This is a bit dissonant for me but I get what it’s going for. So, while I don’t personally like the beat, it’s a success for what it’s aiming to be.
The rapper is interesting. He’s on some shit and I honestly would need a few listens to really get what he’s saying but that’s a good thing. I don’t love his voice but it’s not bad at all. Basically, this isn’t something I’d bump but it’s a well executed song that’s more about personal preference.
Production:5.5 out of 10
Vocals:5.5. out of 10
Listenability:4 out of 10
Originality:5.5 out of 10

Artist: BRKCHK
Song: Moving Forward

This sounds like music you could score a movie with but nothing I’d ever play on its own. I don’t understand the functionality of music like this outside of “being in a movie”. So it’s a success in that , well, that’s how a person can make a lot of money but it’s hard to imagine someone just walking around bumping this.
Production:4.5 out of 10
Vocals:n/a
Listenability:4.5 out of 10
Originality:4.5 out of 10

Artist: Biological Sons
Song: Adele dazeem

The beat is okay. It’s fitting for the mood. Nothing too interesting but fine.
The lyrics are kinda corny and is this really a diss song based around John Travolta fucking up a name at that awards shows? Like…why? The rapping is pretty amateur , the punchlines feel forced but, really, i’m just scratching my head as to why one would make an entire song about this topic. Like, 4 bars? sure. 8 bars? Why not? But two entire verses of Travolta references? It’s just…odd.
Production:4.5 out of 10
Vocals:4 out of 10
Listenability:4.5 out of 10
Originality:4 out of 10

Artist:Vix Wasty
Song: Way too far

White millennial rap. This is not for me. Not to say it’s bad but it’s so clearly pandering and derivative of pretty much all popular rap music right now it’s hard to sit through it and new feel that. even the outfits they rock in the video feel highly thought out. But, like I said, it’s not bad…but, as an old rap head, I don’t even know what to do with this. The beat and rhymes are…fine. Very swaggy. Very effortless in that “I don’t care man, I’m just gonna rap some shit” kinda way. At the very least, I’m sure these guys get lots of pussy for doing this so good on them.
Production:4.5 out of 10
Vocals:4.5 out of 10
Listenability:5 out of 10
Originality:3 out of 10

Artist:Franco
Song: What’s the 411

This is pretty unrefined but I kinda like the vibe of it. The rapper is seemingly so high he can barely get the words out of his mouth but it sounds cool. His voice is dope too. The lower pitched vocals are a bit over done and unnecessary at this point.
The beat is understated and simply there as a good background for the rapper. I kinda like this and I don’t really know why.
Production:5 out of 10
Vocals:6 out of 10
Listenability:6 out of 10
Originality:5 out of 10

What do you think?

It’s been a while but I have returned to review your Demos. This is never easy but someones gotta do it.
If you’d like to be a part of this shitshow, I’m not accepting demos. For how to do that and the rules. check THIS out.
The reviews work like so: i listen once, write a paragraph or two about your song, then arbitrarily rate them from 1-10 in these categories:
Production
Vocals
Listenability
Originality
In general, I rate very low. A 5 should feel like a tiny victory. So, let’s see what we got this week…

Artist: MN
Song: Life as we know in

This is very demo-y demo. The recording and mixing are both very amateur sounding. That aside. the rappers are kinda boring early 2000’s emo indie rap kinda guys with a slight case of white voice. The aren’t bad per se, but this kind of rapping just doesn’t interest me anymore. It’s ironic that they rap about living in a cage cause it feels as though they haven’t heard rap since , like, 2003. The beat actually has some cool parts to it but it’s made in a rudimentary fashion and the first layer that comes in is out of tune. Out of tune samples: my biggest peeve.
Production:4.5 out of 10
Vocals:4 out of 10
Listenability:4 out of 10
Originality:3.5 out of 10

Artist: Station six
Song: Demons (feat. Scarlet De Lemeny)

First and foremost, I’m down with this beat. It’s pretty simple but it sets an ill mood. It could be sharpened up and more evolved but it’s nice regardless. The rapping is fine. Not very interesting. Nothing i haven’t heard hundred of times before. He does that “i’m kinda breathless” style that i really hate but that’s just personal preference.
The song is more about the overall vibe than anything the rapper is actually saying…which is too bad cause he sounds like he’s talking about serious ideas.
Production:6 out of 10
Vocals:5 out of 10
Listenability:5 out of 10
Originality:4.5 out of 10

Artist: Josh “Cultivata” Page
Song: Doctor and the Chef (ft. Fathomphantom)

This is another very “underground” sounding rap song. Which makes sense. It’s a story rhyme…Can’t really say i followed it very well. The writing is seemingly good and the flow is fine. It’s not grabbing me though. The beat is just kinda there. It doesn’t sound “cheap” but some of the sounds seem kinda lifeless. Also, it gets pretty monotonous. Needs some changes , layers or something.
Production:4.5 out of 10
Vocals:4.5 out of 10
Listenability:4.5 out of 10
Originality:4 out of 10

Artist:R$N
Song:IGTKMP5


This is a bit of a mess. It’s weird cause, there are elements of it that sound like the person making it knows what they are doing but, tonally, it’s all over the place. Sounds like an electronic band tuning it’s instruments. It’s as if the artist has a good idea of what kind of music he/she wants to make but hasn’t figured out that things being in key is like Rule #1 of making this kind of music. So the production ideas and desire for peaks and valleys is there…it’s just the skill set and ear isn’t yet.
Production:3.5 out of 10
Vocals:n/a
Listenability:3 out of 10
Originality:4 out of 10

Artist:Moses Rockwell
Song: Solus


This is okay. Cool Upright bass chop and the no drum thing works well enough. There’s not much to the beat beyond that so, that means, it’s more a platform for the rapper to shine. The rapping is cool. Can’t say it grabbed me but he’s got skills. It’s weird, it’s felt like all the rapping thus far this week, is kinda similar…just varying degrees. Underground white guys. I suppose that’s just this blog being on brand though…
Production:5 out of 10
Vocals:5 out of 10
Listenability:5 out of 10
Originality:5 out of 10

Artist: High Elders
Song: Dreams with Mephistopheles


Okay, here we go. This is slightly different than the other demos. The beat feels more current. The rapping, while still kinda white and underground, has a weirdness to it that stands out. The production is really cool, choppy and feels warm. The rapper is not amazing but has his own personality, which is honestly more important at times then being the most lyrical miracle rapper.
Production:6.5 out of 10
Vocals:5.5 out of 10
Listenability:6 out of 10
Originality:6 out of 10

Artist: G.C. Crew
Song: Hip hop is my life Ft. Clev Speech

I won’t even lie…i was judging this one based off the title. I know, I’m a dick.To be honest, I’m kinda shocked it’s an american rapper. Was definitely expecting a german accent or something.
This is very much a throwback track. On the bright side, this dude does a really good job sounding like the rap he loves. He has skills…for that era. This is time capsule rap. This could legit have been a demo on stretch and bobbito in 96. Without question. The beat is solid, though boring. All that said, I just don’t know where this fits in at 2016. At least he REALLY does love hip hop, though.
Production:4.5 out of 10
Vocals:5 out of 10
Listenability:5 out of 10
Originality:3 out of 10

Artist: Afghan Connection
Song: Cascade

This is some decent little instrumental shit. Sounds like mostly live instruments. It drags in the beginning and veers off into a more rock and rollish vibe. All in all, it’s not bad at all. It’s lacking direction but there’s potential to it. I can’t say I see a point to this song, as it’s kinda meandering but, like i said, with a little focus and more of a concept behind just simple “making a song”, this could be something.
Production:5 out of 10
Vocals:n/a
Listenability:5 out of 10
Originality:4.5 out of 10

So, What do you think?

Oh goddamnit…it’s time for “Demo Reviews”. This is where I review songs sent in by readers. I try and be honest cause what is the point otherwise?
I am currently not accepting new submissions but they’ll be back open soon enough. Until then, sharpen you craft. If this weeks batch is any indication, you all need LOTS of work.
Anyway, the reviews work like so…I listen, write a paragraph or two about the song then arbitrarily review the songs from 1-10 in these categories:
Production
Vocals
Listenability
Originality

Pretty simple….yet so painful. Let’s delve into this weeks scrap heap. Put on your helmet.

Artist: La Li Dawg
Song: Hawks on a moon

It’s starts off very atmospheric and kinda sounds like music you might hear during an acupuncture session but with more drums. The, halfway through it switches up and some vocals come in. I don’t know if they’re a sample or original. I truly have no clue. I’d guess a sample but you never know. I honestly don’t know what to make of this. Not sure what genre it even is. It’s strange and kinda interesting but also nothing i’d really check for. But props for making a song that’s really hard to review.
Production:5 out of 10
Vocals:5? not sure….
Listenability:5.5 out of 10
Originality:6.5 out of 10

Artist:Alonte Harris
Song:Breath/Broken

This is a pretty weak attempt at some Spooky black kinda cloud shit. Problem is, the singer is not very good and the beat is as generic as possible. The vocals sound like they were recorded through a tin can and the singer isn’t fully committed to what he’s doing. I don’t blame him. he shouldn’t be.
The beat feels like it was a setting on a plug-in or something. There’s just nothing original or interesting about it.
Production:3.5 out of 10
Vocals:4 out of 10
Listenability:4 out of 10
Originality:4 out of 10

Artist: Richard Poor
Song: Kiwi…


This is a rare case of a rapper having a good voice but not quite being there as a rapper. The good news is that means he’s got a good tool to work with. Practice, get more comfortable and tighten up the flow and there’s some promise here. It’s kinda like a pitcher who can throw 100 mph but can’t throw a strike.
The beat is a cool but kinda (purposely?) sloppy little jazz number. I’m not mad at it but, you know, it’s just drums and piano loop.
Production:5 out of 10
Vocals:4.5 out of 10
Listenability:5.5 out of 10
Originality:4 out of 10

Artist: Academic Dishonesty
song: Every time the beat drop

How the fuck do songs like this find me? Like, surely no one who reads my blog or knows what I kind of music I would make would send me this thinking I would like it, right?
Anyway…Continuing with the “Bashful ass rappers trying to have swag” style , this one pick up where the singer guy left off earlier. I realize the nonchalant style is meant to show an “IDGAF” coolness but in order for it to work you must have a good, confidant voice and fluidity to your lyrics. This guy has neither.
The Beat is what it is. Some club trap shit. Nice low end but ultimately kind of annoying and absolutely cookie cutter.
Production:4 out of 10
Vocals:4 out of 10
Listenability:4 out of 10
Originality:2 out of 10

Artist: Meathead MC
Song: The Neighborhood


Honestly, I expected a worse rapper, with the chosen name. Like, his voice isn’t great but he can kinda flow at times and he sounds comfortable behind the mic. This song is weird cause its about his hometown (which I dunno where it is. HPR?) so it’s kinda uninteresting to anyone who’s not from there…which is everyone. So, I dunno…limited audience for this one.
Beat-wise, shit is pretty amateur. The drums are really bad in general. I’m not mad at the samples and a better producer coulda flipped them into something tighter for sure.
Production:4 out of 10
Vocals:5.5 out of 10
Listenability:5 out of 10
Originality:4.5 out of 10

Artist:Veinglorious
Song:Pop the Clutch

yeah….i just don’t know anymore. Like, I get what this is going for and there are technical aspects of this that aren’t bad at all. It’s just a formula I’m so bored by at this point. The rapper can rap. Sure. His white voice definitely doesn’t work with this kinda track. The singing is a thing…it’s an attempt. I get it. Not for me. it’s not bad though.
The beat is well made and probably the best part of the song and even that isn’t that great.
Production:5 out of 10
Vocals:4.5 out of 10
Listenability:5 out of 10
Originality:4 out of 10

Artist: Karkut
Song: If you wanna get down

We’ve reached a point in music where “If you wanna get down” is not an acceptable song title. Also, sampling James Brown…not okay.
Granted, I do give credit for mixing and matching a bunch of different Brown samples creatively. Honestly, just on that, it’s the best production I’ve heard all week, even though what it samples couldn’t be more played out. So, I’m kinda half and half on this one. It’s creative and impressive while also well worn territory
Production:6 out of 10
Vocals:n/a
Listenability:5.5 out of 10
Originality:5 out of 10

Artist: Jesta G
Song: Damn Pranks

Nope. Not at all. Stop it.
This is a song made for fun by someone who doesn’t give a fuck. And that’s the best thing about it…but it’s a mediocre beat and bad rapper trying to be funny. This is a song someone makes and plays for their friends and it should end there.
The rapper is sloppy and just kinda aimless. The beat is cheap sounding. The mixing is sloppy (turn the ad libs down, dude).
And, even though it’s supposed to be funny, any humor value ( for me, at least) is lost in bad delivery but..honestly, i don’t think it would be particularly funny if a better rapper rapped in anyway.
Production:3.5 out of 10
Vocals:3.5 out of 10
Listenability:4 out of 10
Originality:4 out of 10

What do you think?

Hi there and welcome to a new edition of “Demo reviews”. It’s been a minute. Not gonna lie…I really have to psych myself up to even do these cause they’re often so painful. Happy to say this week is actually one of the strongest weeks in recent memory, if not ever. So, thanks to all the people who make these songs. It’s a rare feat for me to not walk away from writing this in a worse mood.
Anyway, the reviews work like so. I listen to the track, write a paragraph or two on the song then arbitrarily rate the songs from 1-10 in these categories:
Production
Vocals
Listenability
Originality
That’s about it.
Oh, and I’m not accepting demo submissions at the moment. The queue is pretty full so I’mma give it a little time before I reopen the flood gates. Just a heads. Don’t send me shit right now. i don’t want it.
Okay, here’s this weeks batch!

Artist: od
Song: Georgia Bread

Off the bat , I liked this beat. It’s mix is a touch sloppy but the overall quality is high. Nice layering and changes keep it interesting. The rapper is dope too. Great voice and presence. Some of the lines don’t hit or are corny but that’s a small complaint. This is one of those rare demos where I see a lot of promise and , down the road, it’s the type of artist I would certainly check for. Overall, one of the better demo’s I’ve heard on here in a while.
Production:7 out of 10
Vocals:6.5 out of 10
Listenability:7 out of 10
Originality:5 out of 10

Artist: Dugen Nash
Song: Oh Velma Feat. Vulgar Blast

This is a weird one. I mean, it’s a love ode to Velma from Scooby Doo. I’m not mad at it though. It strangely works. I mean shit, if you can make a hit about dancing like “Weekend at Bernies” is this so off point?
The rapping is entertaining and silly but done well. Well, the first verse at least…the second verse kinda flies off the rails in both it’s flow and understandability.
The beat works for what it is.
Production:5 out of 10
Vocals:5 out of 10
Listenability:7 out of 10
Originality:6 out of 10

Artist: Two Guns west
Song: Dust on my boots


Is this what Bubba Sparxx was going for?
This is another funny, weird song. Two in a row. It’s true redneck rap done with a wink. They really nail it though. The beat, especially is perfectly done and the overall production of the song is really tight. The rapping is fun. I don’t know how far you could take this concept but, for one song, it’s fun.
Production:6.5 out of 10
Vocals:6 out of 10
Listenability:6 out of 10
Originality:6 out of 10

Artist: Andy O.
Song: Tiger Lily & pete

After all these weird ass demo’s this feels almost too normal. Yes, it’s another song about something totally random. Peter pan. Topically, this week has been off the chain thus far.
Anyway, the beat is okay. I don’t love it and it needs more changes to keep it interesting but it’s not bad.
The rapping falls into that “capable, white but ultimately uninteresting” Category that most underground sounding rap seems to fall into. Dude is not bad at rapping at all. You can tell he takes pride in the writing but do i really feel like listening to it? Not really. Still…it’s far from shitty.

Production:5 out of 10
Vocals:5 out of 10
Listenability:4.5 out of 10
Originality:4 out of 10

Artist:Sully
Song: Sully You fool

This is some inspirational “You can get out of bed!” kinda music. It’s happy and hopeful. I don’t really know what else to do with it though. i would say this: I would start with the slow drums and work up towards the faster drum sequence used in the beginning. Maybe it’s just me but it takes some wind out of the sails when a song starts upbeat then turns into something more downbeat when there hasn’t be anything to really lead you to that conclusion. Not sure if that makes sense but, in my head, it does.
Production:5 out of 10
Vocals:N/a
Listenability:5 out of 10
Originality:4.5 out of 10

Artist: Logikk and Reason
Song: Rebuilding (hamers and nails)

Not gonna lie, I saw the group name and the spelling of Logikk and assumed these guys were from eastern europe. They aren’t, apparently. Just an idea but that name…it’s not good. It’s really bad. Even by early 2000’s underground rap standards
The music kinda fits the name though. It’s got a very early 2000’s sensibility to it, lyrically. The rapper can write but his voice isn’t really engaging and he’s borrowing from his idols a bit too heavily.
Beatwise, it just sounds kinda unpolished. Like , it’s not mixed poorly but the sounds and the string samples are all just so “blah”.
Production:4.5 out of 10
Vocals:4.5 out of 10
Listenability:4.5 out of 10
Originality:3 out of 10

Artist: Kilmatik
Song: Zero Weirdos Feat. Robbie Analog

This is pretty cool. The beat is solid and the rapping has it’s charm. I like the Mc’s voice and he sounds confidant in his verses. And then you got a Kool Keith verse. What?!?! Kinda cheating to send this as your demo. But, yeah, this shit is cool. The ending change up kinda comes out of nowhere but I appreciate the effort.
Production:5.5 out of 10
Vocals:6.5 out of 10
Listenability:6 out of 10
Originality:5.5 out of 10

Artist: Amen BK
Song: Another Perspective

This is a good attempt but, i dunno, it’s corny. Like, there’s nothing really wrong with it but it sounds like someone reading a college freshman’s high thoughts over an enya song with drums on it. It’s like that faux deep shit I just have no stomach for. If I was having a conversation with someone and they started saying stuff like this to me, I’d assume they were super coked up or on mushrooms and I’d try to remove myself from the situation.
The beat is well made and has a definitive mood to it but coupled with the rhymes , it’s almost overkill.
Production:5 out of 10
Vocals:4 out of 10
Listenability:4 out of 10
Originality:4 out of 10

So, what do you think?

Yup. It’s back. Demo Reviews. You guys send me your music so i can tell you what I think. It’s a bad look for all of us involved but, hey, it’s better than nothing. if you would like to take part and submit music, you may do so but you MUST read THIS. There are rules and you must follow them. I got a few submissions this week from people who did not read the rules and those went right into the trash pile.
Anyway, the reviews work like so, i write a paragraph or two about the song then arbitrarily rate the song from 1-10 in these categories:
Production
Vocals
Listenability
Originality
That’s about it. Reach for the stars and learn how to use mics, guys!

Artist: Coping Mechanism
Song: Imbecile

Okay…hmm…I can say this…the beat is fun. It’s an awesome loop and definitely sounds like some old Madlib kinda shit. It’s super lo-fi but it works. That’s the good news.
The bad news is….what the fuck is going on here? Why does it sound like the vocals were recorded through a toilet paper roll and completely freestyled? i didn’t even think recordings this bad were possible in 2016. I mean, you could record out of the mic on your computer through garage band and make it sound better. Beyond the technical parts, the rapping is truly awful. Put the weed down. It’s for your own good, dude.
Production:5.5 out 10
Vocals:1 out of 10
Listenability:3 out of 10
Originality:3 out of 10

Artist: Andy O.
Song: Tiger Lily and Pete

The beat is okay. It’s not bad but it’s also not particularly interesting. It’s got a certain charm to it but it needs more variation.
The rapper is passionate and kinda sounds like a less polished Alaska. His cadence feels a touch methodical and lacks that feel of someone feeling natural behind the mic. But, that said, he’s not bad. It’s more just a style of rap that I’m not checking for in 2016.
Production:5 out of 10
Vocals:4.5 out of 10
Listenability:5 out of 10
Originality:4 out of 10

Artist: J.R. Jugare
Song: In on it

Tonally,this one is a bit of a mess. The bass/808’s are just not in key with any of the samples.
It’s a common mistake made by producers who are just figuring out their sound. They get so enamored with idea of them actually making music , they somehow overlook something that should be so glaringly obvious like tone.
This song has parts that work on their own but, as a song, it just doesn’t connect.
Production:4 out of 10
Vocals:n/a
Listenability:3.5 out of 10
Originality:4 out of 10

Artist: Axiom the wyze
song:Wade in the water

This dude is solid, skill wise. He can rap well but I can’t say I was drawn in much by any aspect of his rapping. I feel like this level of rapping is one only reached by people who really care and put in time but who are, ultimately, lacking that edge that puts them over. It’s a tough position to be in.
Beatwise, this is cool. Well recorded and mixed. Some nice details in there. The main part , itself, isn’t that interesting but I can respect the craftsmanship of it as an overall track.
Production:5.5 out of 10
Vocals:5 out of 10
Listenability:5 out of 10
Originality:3.5 out of 10

Artist: Okien
Song:blu2K14

This rapper is dangling between weirdo and total novice. He’s got a hokeyness to him that’s endearing but he also sounds like he’s been rapping for a week.
The beat is just kinda there. I don’t hate it but there’s also nothing about it that commands me to pay attention to it. To be honest, this song, on all levels, sounds like someone who doesn’t make or listen to a ton of rap music decided to make a rap song.
Production:4 out of 10
Vocals:4 out of 10
Listenability:4 out of 10
Originality:4 out of 10

Artist: Prime Suspect
Song: Timeless

It’s hard for me to overlook the Nina Simone Sample. It’s obviously a great sample that really can’t go wrong (outside of it being a Nina Simone Sample and it’s kinda past the point where that’s okay to do in 2016). That said, he does interesting stuff to it and the layering is pretty cool. The fact he threw in “Good vibrations” made me crack up but it also worked. I’m not mad at this , even though it would be easy to dismiss it on some snob shit.
Production:5.5 out of 10
Vocals:n/a
Listenability:6 out of 10
Originality:4 out of 10

Artist: I. Mythos
Song: Light Bringer

I’m not convinced the rapper was listening to the beat when he recorded this. It sounds like when I try to do a remix and don’t line up the vocals right. It reminds me of “The Streets” but , like, WAY more off beat. Even the singing is off beat. Very confusing.
The beat is one of those heart wrenching sad joints, which is fine. A little overkill but , hey, it’s a mood, right?
Production:4.5 out of 10
Vocals:3 out of 10
Listenability:3.5 out of 10
Originality:4 out of 10

Artist: Reke
Song: Number 1 under 20

This is like the poster child for “demo reviews”. It’s amateur, recorded kinda badly over a beat that is pretty half assed. I will say this though…i kinda like the rapper. I was ready to write him off but he had a few lines that made me crack a smile. He’s rough around the edges and definitely says some run of the mill stuff but, I dunno, i see a little promise in this one. He just needs to learn how to record himself, get some new beats, and focus more on being original.
Production:3 out of 10
Vocals:5.5 out of 10
Listenability:4.5 out of 10
Originality:3 out of 10

So, what do you think?

Man, it’s been a while but Demo Reviews are back. Submissions slowed down to a crawl but I got a bunch recently. If you’d like to submit music, read THIS, follow the rules and send me some shit.
I’m not gonna lie…this is a rough week for demos.Like…man…I dunno who told who about this column but it seems to be heading in a weird direction. Listen to this weeks songs and you will see what I mean. If anything, this week will make many of your bedroom producers feel good about yourself.
Anyway, the reviews work like so. I write a paragraph or two on the song the arbitrarily rate them from 1-10 in the categories:
Production
Vocals
Listenability
Originality
That’s about it. All you gotta do is listen and vote for you favorite at the bottom. Every vote counts…for something.

Artist: Crockett King
Song: Heaven


This is a mellow little joint. strong “rainy sunday afternoon” vibes. The vocal loop is very nice. Bmy only complain is that the track is pretty simple. Just the vocal loop and another part from ,what I’m assuming , is the same song over some quiet , yet effective drums. So, on a listening level, it’s enjoyable. On a technical level, it’s pretty lazy though.
Production:4.5 out of 10
Vocals:n/a
Listenability:6 out of 10
Originality:4 out of 10

Artist: Fonzsolo
Song: FWM Like I FWY

Well…yeah. I can look at this in a few ways. One way to see it is that it’s a completely boring song that sounds like literally every song out right now. Another could be that it’s a mess. Just this dude meandering over this beat. There’s a hook but it’s the exact same as the verses.
I don’t hate the beat. It’s not great but it’s solid. The rapper is totally just an amalgamation of so many other mediocre rappers its just kinda sad.
Production:5 out of 10
Vocals:3 out of 10
Listenability:4.5 out of 10
Originality:1 out of 10

Artist: Spontu
Song: Fodder for the globetrotters

Well that takes a turn. The harp into organ transition is a bit messy. I can’t even tell how well they match tonally. I know they don’t meld mood wise though. The whole song kinda continues in that way. Seems like someone arbitrarily throwing samples out there. On their won, the samples are solid but it’s more a question of them working together. They don’t work very well. Being able to recognize pitch is, like, the most important thing when making beats like that. Without that, it’s just atonal anarchy. The last part is by far the strongest though. It melds nicely. More of that, less of the rest.
Production:4.5 out of 10
Vocals:n/a
Listenability:4 out of 10
Originality:4.5 out of 10

Artist: Ordog
song: Braniac

This is a bizarre one. It’s kinda hard to sit through but I commend the producer on going outside of the box. I feel like this person has a vision and is working towards it. It won’t result in music i will ever enjoy but it will be something many people will gravitate towards. Sounds like someone who started in a different genre who decided to take up making electronic music. It’s not for me, but I’m not mad at it at all.
Production:5.5 out of 10
Vocals:n/a
Listenability:4 out of 10
Originality:6 out of 10

Artist: Jake Aldridge
Song: Pieces of me Ft. Kelly Jenns

How did this demo find me? What? Why?
Yeah…this is abysmal. It’s like an Evanescence demo song or something. Clearly, I could not be less of the target audience for this but, even on that level, it’s not even a good version of what it’s striving to be. The production is clanky and not very refined. The singer is capable but ultimately annoying and the rapper is just corny. Ouch.
Production:4 out of 10
Vocals:3 out of 10
Listenability:2 out of 10
Originality:2 out of 10

Artist: Alex A
Song: Two funky Honkies

I think every bored rock band has made a song like this. It’s people who kinda like rap but ultimately don’t really respect it as a genre. Even the title of the song is telling. “look at us! we are white…and rapping!”. It’s not 1993. This is no longer a thing that should exist. It’s all in fun and silly but this also just kinda sucks in general.
Production:3 out of 10
Vocals:3 out of 10
Listenability:3 out of 10
Originality:3 out of 10

Artist:Kendrick Lee
Song: To the max

I’m too old for this shit. I can’t listen to this without thinking “why do you even make music?”. It’s not like it’s terrible. it’s just so incredibly mediocre. To me, that’s worse. Being average. People seem to strive for this. It’s proof that almost anyone can rap and do it , at the very least, passably. The beat is fine for what it is. It’s mix is a little shaky though.
Production:4.5 out of 10
Vocals:3.5 out of 10
Listenability:4 out of 10
Originality:2 out of 10

Artist: Clay (TBKA)
Song: The games we play

I think this is supposed to be like some video game music. It’s not bad. It builds nicely and there’s some nice attention to detail going on. Not sure when one would listen to this…perhaps playing video games at, like, 5 am? That works. Either way, not mad at this.
Production:5.5 out of 10
Vocals:n/a
Listenability:5 out of 10
Originality:4.5 out of 10

So, what do you think?

Hello and welcome to another edition of “Demo reviews” you guys sent me songs and wanted my opinion. well, guess what? You got it. For better or for worse.
I’m accepting submissions. Are you a budding rapper or producer? Well, now is you chance to let people other than your friends hear your shit as well as have me, a complete stranger possibly tell you it sucks. Before submitting, YOU MUST read the rules. Read THIS the proceed. I’m very strict about this so don’t waste both of our time.
The reviews work like so: I write a paragraph or two on what I think then arbitrarily rate the songs from 1-10 in the categories
Production
Vocals
Listenability
Originality
That’s about it. Let’s see what we got this week.

Artist: Ghost the garden
Song: Neptune’s Nose Blood

This one is a slow burn. The build up is long but deliberate. It’s tightly crafted and all the sounds used are tasteful. I’m not sure what mood this fits but it’s something. I feel as though whoever made this knows what they are doing which is rare around these parts. Musically, it’s not my cup of tea personally but undeniably well done.
Production:7.5 out of 10
Vocals:n/a
Listenability:6 out of 10
Originality:6 out of 10

Artist: Prelusive
song: Lost in Thought

This is a good example of someone taking a sample and playing around with it and a really effective way. The original piano loop is awesome and the way he/she changes it really elevates the whole track. The build up is nice to. I don’t know if it has much direction, sequence wise, but that’s a minor complaint. I like some of the drums (the snare) but other aspects of them I’m not wild about. Regardless, it’s a a job well done. Definitely could have been about 2 minutes shorter though.
Production:7 out of 10
Vocals:n/a
Listenability:6 out of 10
Originality:4.5 out of 10

Artist: Lucky punch
song: To all my peoples ft. salmon arms

This brings those 1997 drums and the 1997 cuts. I’m not mad at that but the DJ Premier influence is strong on this one. There are some variations but this is pretty much just a beat. I was kinda hoping a rapper would start in at some point. Definitely a good beat for that.
Production:5 out of 10
Vocals:n/a
Listenability:5.5 out of 10
Originality:3.5 out of 10

Artist: Possible Address
Song: Ode to Marclay

This is also just a beat fancied up to pass of as a “song”. One change up, and outro and a vocal sample does not a song make. Overall, it’s pretty boring. The change up is cool but the starting part doesn’t really draw me in. I feel like there is potential in this producer though.
Production:5 out of 10
Vocals:n/a
Listenability:4.5 out of 10
Originality:5 out of 10

Artist: Sporasia
Song: Waiting for you

A song with raps! Jesus…this week was starting to bum me out, even thought it’s been high quality thus far.
Well, sadly, this is not the rap I was hoping to hear. The beat is amateur and uninteresting. It’s not the worst but it’s just kinda there. The rapping means well but it’s extremely rough around the edges. I’ve never been a fan of raps that sound like someones love letter to someone else or a diary installment. But more than that, the voice and the flow are just not there yet. I feel like that’s gotta catch up to his writing.
Production:4 out of 10
vocals:4.5 out of 10
Listenability:4.5 out of 10
Originality:4.5 out of 10

Artist: Jonathan Brown
Song: Nobody

I would like to advise against the accapella intro unless you have an REALLY good, powerful voice. This guys voice is not bad but not THAT good. Just a thought.
It kinda sets the table oddly cause when he starts rapping over the beat the mix sounds weird. Like it was recorded live or something.
That aside, the beat is cool. Sounds like a band. The rapper is solid. He’s a touch wistful and angst-y and that’s not my bag but there are plenty of people who like this kind of vibe and his energy feels authentic.
Production:5.5 ouf 10
Vocals:5.5 out of 10
Listenability:5 out of 10
Originality:5 out of 10

Artist: Scam Syllable
Song:The greatest Trick

This is a weird little electro sounding track. Sounds a bit flimsy. The mix is kinda shitty , to be honest and the drums are bad stock sounds. Like, replace these drums with really dope ones and this track is 100% different. That said, some of the music is interesting and, if sharpened up could be pretty good.
Also, skip the “usual suspects” samples. That shit is beyond played out.
Production:4.5 out of 10
Vocals:n/a
Listenability:4.5 out of 10
Originality:4 out of 10

Artist:Pmatic
Song:Champions Ft. Dinero baggs

Maybe it’s cause i’ve been wanting to hear rap this week but this feels good. It’s not even that good but it’s a feeling I was looking for. The beat is solid but , overall, kinda generic. There are little parts that are cool but then the snare is a little meh. Still, not mad at it.
The rappers aren’t reinventing the wheel but they do their thing. The energy of the song is kinda better then the song as a whole.
Production:5 out of 10
Vocals:5.5 out of 10
Listenability:5.5 out of 10
Originality:4 out of 10

What do you think?

Well, it is time for another “Demo reviews”. You sent me music, I listened and gave you my dumb opinion on it. If you’d like to be a part of this, the floodgates remain open. SEND ME YOUR MUSIC. But, first, read the RULES , as they are crucial to the process.
Anyway, the reviews work like so, I listen to your song, write a paragraph or two on it then arbitrarily rate the songs from 1-10 in these categories:
Production
Vocals
Listenability
Originality
Simple stuff. A monkey could do it. But I wouldn’t wanna subject a monkey to some of these demos to the burden is all on me.

Artist:Onlyinmylife
Song:Hear my Cry

This beat is one of those “overly emotional” tracks that some people love. I’m not one of them. It’s not bad but I always tend to feel tracks like this are pulling strings rather than bringing on honest emotion. It’s mix is a bit sloppy too.
The rapper is pretty good but his style is well worn. I’ve heard many many songs just like this. Again, it’s not bad but it’s kinda the same old same old
Production:4.5 out of 10
Vocals:5 out of 10
Listenability:4.5 out of 10
Originality:3.5 out of 10

Artist: Alien Altra
Song: Animal or Human?

You know in movies about the future they will sometimes have music playing in the background? This sounds like some “future music” , if it was thought up by a person who kinda hates music. It feels futuristic but it’s also very hard to listen to.
The beat is a well curated but badly mixed shit storm. Like, I get the idea of what they were trying to do but it’s just not polished enough to work. The rapping is not very good in general. Sounds like their just joking around…which is fine but I’m not really interested in listening to it.
Production:4 out of 10
Vocals:4 out of 10
Listenability:4 out of 10
Originality:5 out of 10

Artist: Lanny A helton
Song: Everything

Hey Lanny, have you ever read this column? I don’t really review this kind of music. Mostly cause I don’t have an basis of interest to give a worthwhile opinion on it. Is this bar rock? Is this indie? i have no fucking idea. I don’t really care.
Production:???
Vocals:????
Listenability:Not much
Originality:No clue

Artist: Jackson Whalan
Song: S.N.A.G.

Man, this is actually pretty funny. Having played some hippie music festivals this is pretty much spot on. I don’t normally get into funny songs like this but it’s just well done. It’s one time where having a paul barmen like voice actually works perfectly. Not to mention, the beat is is pretty solid too. The sitar sound is perfect. I mean, I hope this is kinda jokey…
Production:5.5 out of 10
Vocals:6 out of 10
Listenability:6.5 out of 10
Originality:5 out of 10

Artist: Smokey Joe
Song: Milltown Blues

This is a dope little throwback beat. Sounds like some late 90’s underground shit.
It’s pretty simple but effective.
The rapping is solid and I kinda like the guys voice. His flow is a little shaky in a few moments but, overall, it’s good.
The lo-fi sound actually work. It sounds like a demo but that has it’s charm to it , in this case.
Production:5.5 out of 10
Vocals:5 out of 10
Listenability:6 out of 10
Originality:4 out of 10

Artist: Eurybaric
Song: Oh Youth

I’m 30 seconds in it sounds like cat walking on a synth. That’s not good.
It cleans up when the hi hats drop but, still, this is just boring electro noodling. There’s nothing going on here that’s compelling or that catches the ear in a way. Like, what’s the purpose of this music? I don’t say that to be a dick, I legit want to know.
Production:3 out of 10
Vocals:n/a
Listenability:3 out of 10
Originality:4 out of 10

Artist: Belgian Gates
Song: Attu

This is a slightly more put together version of the song above. It’s got better sounds and a palpable mood (That mood: running scared through a bath house) but it’s still ultimately completely uninteresting. Then the steel drums drop…Nope.
I appreciate the attempt, I’ve tried incorporating steel drums into my beats a few times and it’s never easy. Points for trying but it didn’t work.
Production:3.5 out of 10
Vocals:n/a
Listenability:3.5 out of 10
Originality:4 out of 10

Artist: DJ Donak
Song: John Tosh-Lonely

Sometimes I wonder how demo’s land in my inbox. Like, there’s no way the dude who made this reads my blog or cares what I think about his song. It just can’t be.So weird.
Anyway, this is perfectly fine for what it is. A electronic reggae song. Much like that rock song earlier, i don’t feel I’m the guy to review this. I will say, it’s well done at least. he’s got a good voice and the music is well executed. That’s all I can say about that.
Production:5 out of 10
Vocals:5 out of 1o
Listenability:5 out of 10
Originality:4.5 out of 10

So, what do you think?

Hi! Welcome to another edition of “Demo reviews”. All you budding artists out there sent me your music so I could possibly shatter your dreams with my cynical and pointless opinion. If you’d like to submit a song, there are RULES. Read them in that link before you send me anything.
Anyway, the reviews work like so: I peep on song, write a paragraph of two about it then arbitrarily review it based on these four categories
Production
Vocals
Listenability
Originality
Honestly, the rating don’t mean much but I know how people like numbers.
This weeks batch is actually pretty solid, including one of the better demo’s I’ve ever received. Don’t forget to vote for your favorite at the bottom. Game on.

Artist: Badd
Song: That’s him

I do love a good Ric Flair sample but this shit is just kinda boring. At first I hated the rapper but he says a few lines that cracked me up. At the same time, other lines had me blushing cause they were so corny.
The beat is…well…like nothing. Some soft drums with an 808 and a bass tone. It feels as if this song was meant to have a particular feel to it and it just missed the boat.
Production:3 out of 10
Vocals:4.5 out of 10
Listenability:4.5 out of 10
Originality:3 out of 10

Artist: Walkingshoe
Song:Nora Ft. yU

This is really dope. The beat is bugged out and spacey. Really well made. The rapper is good too. Great voice, nice flow and an overall nice presence.
It’s cool cause the production feels totally original when matched with these types of rap vocals. I actually wish it were longer. My only complaint is that the beat doesn’t switch up but that’s pretty minor.
Production:7.5 out of 10
Vocals:7 out of 10
Listenability:7.5 out of 10
Originality:6 out of 10

Artist: Forty-xo
song:7 in the morning


I’ve come around to drake after his last album but this song is an example of why he’s still a problem. His influence on others who are less talented. This dude should not be singing ever. Never ever ever. I almost feel like this is a joke. i realize there are a slew of terrible singing rappers out there who sound slightly learning disabled and that’s a thing right now but this shit is just silly. The beat is not bad though, so there’s that.
Production:5.5 out of 10
Vocals:2 out of 10
Listenability:4 out of 10
Originality:1 out of 10

Artist: L-Theanine
Song: What’s happening

The rapper has his heart in the right place but that voice is too much for me to handle. I’m fully racist against white voice. I know, it’s not fair.
This is brand of underground verbose rap that I’m kinda over (with a few exceptions) so it’s hard for me to really care that much. Not their fault. More just a personal preference on my point. But he can rap on technical lever without question.
I like the beat. Some parts work better than others but it’s interesting.
Production:5 out of 10
Vocals:4.5 out of 10
Listenability:4.5 out of 10
Originality:4.5 out of 10

Artist: Professor Caveman
Song: Puffin’ down the Dart

Well, this is out of nowhere. This feels like just some old song. Is it? I’m actually confused. I rarely get like music so i really don’t know what to say about it. It’s well done, really well recorded. The singing is okay but does the job I suppose. I’m not really a rock and roll guy though so I don’t feel I have much perspective to review this kinda thing.
Production:6.5 out of 10
Vocals:5 out of 10
Listenability:5 out of 10
Originality:4.5 out of 10

Artist: Gatsby the Great
Song: Breathe


The beat is a nice mix of different styles. Well made and well arranged. The rapper is good and i can always appreciate a lisp. Still, he’s not drawing me into the song that much. I found myself listening more to the track than the raps.
Production:6 out of 10
Vocals:5 out of 10
Listenability:5.5 out of 10
Originality:4 out of 10

Artist: Saba
Song: Next Door

Am i just to old for this kinda shit? I may be. I don’t mind it. I see why this style is popular but it always feels lazy to me. I dunno why. Or maybe it’s just so clearly trying to be this thing that so many other people are doing that I can’t take it that seriously. It’s too bad cause I think they rapper/singer is actually pretty good. The beat is solid too. Well made and mixed. I just hate listening to a new rapper and knowing immediately who he listen to.
Production:5.5 out 10
Vocals:5.5 out of 10
Listenability:6 out of 10
Originality:1 out of 10

Artist: Benny Beyond and the Archaeologist
Song: Toupee

I like this beat in theory but it’s a touch abrasive for my actual taste. The crash drum dominates the mix a bit to much. Outside of that, it’s good though.
The rapping is fine. Not mad at it but also not too excited about it. Overall, pretty decent.
Production:5 out of 10
Vocals:5 out of 10
Listenability:5 out of 10
Originality:4.5 out of 10

What do you think?

Hey there and welcome to another edition of “Demo reviews”. You lunatics sent me your music to review. Still dunno why…If you’d like to send me a demo, read these RULES and then send me a song. Follow those rules, motherfuckers….It’s very important to the prcoess
Anyway, the reviews work like so: YOu send me a song, I listen to it once and write a paragraph or two about it. Then, I arbitrarily rate is from 1-10 in thse categories:
Production
Vocals
Listenability
Originality
That’s about it. Also, don’t forget to vote for your favorite at the end. The winner gets nothing but still, for the pride!

Artist: Mixer Jaexx
Song: Nice and soft and smooth

This is one of those “the name doesn’t match the music” songs. It’s not nice, soft or smooth. It’s clunky and somewhat abrasive. There’s some good elements that pop in and out but the whole thing just feels too spastic for my taste and doesn’t feel like it has much direction. I was gonna say the drums are cheesy sounding but they switch up to much better sounds a minute or so in. But, yeah, this is all over the place and very ADD in a non-satisfying way
Production:4.5 out of 10
Vocals:n/a
Listenability:4.5 out of 10
Originality:5 out of 10

Artist: Dr. Rhymebender
Song: Gone

Sigh…there’s nothing wrong with this but it’s the same old emotional atmosphere influenced white guy rap that I’ve been hearing since the early 2000’s. This dude takes it to new heights in how he uses his voice and even the background vocals, it’s so much like Slug it’s hard to even sit through.
The beat isn’t bad. I like the chop in the beginning but i wish it came back more throughout the song.
In general, I can’t listen to songs where a guy wears his heart on sleeve about a girl. I just can’t care about this kinda of rap anymore. It’s been done to death and it was always kinda corny. That’s just me though.
Production:5 out of 10
Vocals:4.5 out of 10
Listenability:5 out of 10
Originality:2 out of 10

Artist: Legendary Obscure
Song: Gator Shit

This is a sleekly produced little joint right here. I like the drums and the chops. The mood is cool too. Kinda reminds me of that Show and Ag song “Next Level”. On the downside, this is just a beat…not a song. As always, I don’t wanna hear your beats. I wanna hear songs. So it definitely loses points there cause it’s the same shit for the entire fucking time. Throwing a will ferrell sample on a beat doesn’t make it a song, guys.
Production:5.5 out of 10
Vocals:n/a
Listenability:4 out of 10
Originality:4 out of 10

Artist: Luke Mardsen
Song: Poker Chip

It’s low fi and has it’s problems but I kinda like this beat. It’s good despite itself. That’s generally a case of luck or a producer who just has a special kinda ear. I guess that remains to be seen.
The rapper is interesting but also sloppy as fuck. There’s potential but his flow is all over the place and his confidence isn’t there yet.
Production:5.5 ouf 10
Vocals:4.5 out of 10
Listenability:5.5 out of 10
Originality:4.5 out of 10

Artist: Atoum Zeki
Song: Krung Thep

This one just seems like leaps and bounds better than every other song I’ve heard today. It just seems professional. It’s weird, kinda mesmerizing and well put together. I can hear a vision to this music. It’s not just a dude making a beat.
Really well done.
Production:7.5 out of 10
Vocals:n/q
Listenability:7 out of 10
Originality:6.5 out of 10

Artist:OLMEC
Song: Stompin’ Grounds

At first it sounded like a sloppy throw back boom bap track but the beat actually really goes places. Nice filtered bass tones but the switch up is really the star here. Really dope beat.
The rapper is solid. He’s not blowing me away but he’s got some good lines and a good enough voice. He needs to sound less bored i think.
Production:7 out of 10
Vocals:5 out of 10
Listenability:6 out of 10
Originality:4.5 out of 10

Artist: Okien
Song:Saul. 2.0

I like some of the ideas in here but I don’t like how it works as a whole, tonally. It’s just a bunch of different parts that don’t particularly work together. The atmospheric main part has some potential though.
Production: 4.5 of of 10
Vocals:n/a
Listenability:4.5 out of 10
Originality:5.5 out of 10

Artist: Crosby
Song: Cabana Music

This is some low-fi shit that reminds me of old Stretch and bobbito demos.
The beat isn’t the sharpest (the drums, are especially clunky) but it’s suitable to the rest of the song. The rapper has a great voice..he sounds like Freddie Gibbs…A LOT. Just in the voice though, not in the flow. He can rap well for sure though. They just need to work on recording better and song structure.
Production:4.5 out of 10
Vocals:5.5 out of 10
Listenability:5 out of 10
Originality:4 out of 10

What do you think?