Jakarta Dubplate # 6: Henry Canyons - Canyonland [Album]


Henry Canyon's album "Canyonland" was originally released on bandcamp something like a year ago without any distribution behind it and Jakarta felt it was painfully unnoticed. So all in all a perfect contender for a Jakarta Dubplate. It was entirely produced by French producer Keor Meteor.

"Canyonland is a conceptual album that revolves around Henry Canyons' journey to Los Angeles, his struggle to adjust to a new life there, his coming to terms and attempts to keep a solid connection with his identity as a "half-French, Jewish Brooklynite" that has been transplanted into a place that is wildly different from what he was used to. It also outlines his efforts to solidify his personal and professional spheres, his romantic ups and downs and his perspective on Los Angeles life in general. Musically-speaking, this album is a much smoother ride than the topic itself betrays. Henry's baritone voice glides effortlessly over a beautiful, West-Coast boom-bap backdrop (produced by Keor Meteor), riding the tempo with technically proficient flow and great lyrics. Zoe Rose, a very talented, jazzy and soulful singer/songrwiter, makes several appearances throughout, lending her silky-smooth voice to many of the choruses. Freddy Jay provides some funky vinyl cuts on others. Open Mike Eagle also makes an appearance, lending a great guest-verse. Overall, Canyonland is a great album for both casual listeners who want something they can easily throw on in the car for a relaxing listen or more hardcore listeners who like to dig into the lyrics and think about what a rapper is conveying."




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