Finn Foxell’s poetic depictions of London, love and the loud pack have built him a firm following. Like his Elevation Meditation associates, the West Londoner has been integral to the multifaceted ‘underground’ U.K. Rap scene currently carbonating in our capital. Tipped by many publications, including us, for a big year, Talk is Cheap sees Foxell diversifying his sound, whilst maintaining the dexterous wordplay we know him for.
Throughout the 8 tracks, we hear elements of trap, hiphop and UKG - all of which have been a particular source of interest for Foxell on previous projects. The artist’s hook writing and harmonies are vastly improved on Talk Is Cheap. ‘Coming In 3s’, with its saxophones, pianos and broken 2-step rhythms, lures us in with one of these contagious hooks. By ‘Shout Me’ you become completely invested in Foxell’s narrative. Over Nikhil Beats’ latin inspired instrumental, the wordsmith longs for life’s simplicities. Shouting your mates, meeting them at astro turfs and buying new clobber are blissful forms of gratification, but Foxell confides in his content for them. Previous collaborator Saffiyah provides her scintillating vocals for a verse too.
The Lauren Ralph produced Make It Count, which came accompanied by visuals last month, encapsulates you with Foxell’s slurry, monotone delivery. The BRM member’s beat leaves you in a meditative state of mind - encompassing the narrative of never giving up and believing in your vision. ‘Steady’ is our stand out cut. Addressing the collective growth of Elevation Meditation, whilst reminding everyone creativity is a steady process, the track shows strong musicality and IGLU NOISE’s production is the best on TIC. The flutes, trumpets and chopped vocal scratches combine in triumphant fashion, enriching Finn’s wordplay.
2020 has seen P-Rallel, Louis Culture and now Finn Foxell pushing quintessentially British dance genres through their music. ‘Herd’ is a mellow UKG inspired cut, which features Sophie DeMasi’s delicate vocals. The EP plays out in a visceral manor. With its sinister synths and drill-esque bass, ‘Pressure’ hammers home the project’s narrative - you have to talk less and do more to succeed.
WRITTEN BY LIAM CATTERMOLE