Eugene [IV] is an up and coming indie MC, who has a similar lyrical style to Talib Kweli and Common. He isn’t straight hip-hop, which is why I like his sound so much. Eugene sings from the soul, and this shows raw quality talent. Eugene does the both extremely well weather it’s hip-hop or soul. Yet his genius in creativity never fails to impress. Expect to hear Jazz, Drum and Bass, with spoken word, about love and life’s tribulations. Signed to Throughline Records, Eugene [IV] had a musical life before hand. Not many independent artists can say that they are as diverse and talented as much as this Starving Artist can. He is a teacher as well as a music creator, helping children develop their everyday skills for a better future. The lyrics are real, and from the heart of a deep mind. The powerful live band, with deep bass lines and drum rhythms to shake the roof; [Eugene] IV could easily be big in the underground circuit. Starving Artist has some incredible tracks, ‘Dear MC’, ‘One Too’, ‘Get It’, ‘Write On’ and ‘The Brink’ are a few of my preferred numbers. ‘One Too’ has a great piano with jazz chords, his lyrics shows us his feelings for someone, and it shows that not all rappers have to be numb and ghetto fabulous to be lyrically impressive. With funky fashion, inspirational lyrics and grooves in one album that would impress the late Funk legends, Eugene is going places. Another appreciated track for me is ‘Write On’, with soulful chords and nice horn sections. This is a very solid, confident and experimental first release from this talented MC. His lyrics feature no explicitly wording, which proves the power of intelligence and making sense is something to be admired rather than all the swearing that is filled in much of the Black modern hip-hop records from Missy Elliot to NWA. No frills can be expected from Eugene IV, his music, he keeps to the point and always has meaning remaining in the lyrics.

Matthew Daniel
Just Soul