New to our blog, Raw Soul is a lawyer as well as being a rapper. It’s quite an attention-grabbing fact, but perhaps not quite as attention-grabbing as his new album, Journey // Destination.

By Graeme Smith

Journey // Destination is a reflective collection on the journey that the Libyan, Vancouver, Canada-born Raw Soul has been on as a writer and performer and gives us ten samples of what he’s all about.

The album kicks off with Terra and it’s a soulful start. Ghostly harmonies and a timeless instrumental sets the early tone before the verse arrives. Raw Soul has a unique ability to combine old school rap with modern sensibilities, and his storytelling lyrics proved gripping. Straight away, I knew I was in for something special with his album.

Each track comes and goes as a brief vignette, a snapshot window into Raw Soul’s world. They flow together nicely, often picking up on well-trodden themes in hip-hop but also giving us some distinct perspectives. To The Top is typical braggadocio while How That Sound? stands out thanks to its lo-fi textures and catchy hook.

A While… is a simmering and introspective moment. Monk is dark and atmospheric. 2012 broods reflectively. Words from Your Tongue has a doubting yet defiant edge while Simple Breeze lightens things with a beachside groove. What’s Next? is a beautifully rich and soulful highlight before title track Journey // Destination closes the album with a bright and nostalgic final chapter.

Raw Soul’s reverence to the old school while bringing something new to the rap game is his superpower. He combines the familiar and unfamiliar well in order to stand out in a sea of hip-hop artists.

Journey // Destination is out now and you can give it a listen below.