Van Buren

SoundCloud Gems

September 08, 2021 in Fresh Finds

AAKHU - Giveon - Garden Kisses (House Remix

AAKHU has been a fan favorite of Nefarious for years, everything the DMV diamond drops becomes a gem, and with his dip into the wave of house production, his spin on Giveon’s Garden Kisses is a beautiful example of the artistry he can provide by simply adding a touch of his own sound.

Rell Chanel - RUNNIN’ [REMIX]

Rell Chanel’s debut project isn’t out yet, but with the release of his track HILLS, got us as hyped as possible for what he has in store for us. However, as a surprise gift, Chanel also dropped the RUNNIN’ [REMIX] track, which boasts playful, yet deep 808s and cheeky samples here and there that come together to paint a beautiful world for the new artist to play in. Don’t sleep on Rell Chanel, tune in if you know the vibes.

Meech - Sometimes Pain Can Be A Drug Too Pt. IV

As if a gift before the gift, Meech of Van Buren Records dropped an incredible three minutes (and then some) of incredible introspection, truth-telling, and reminiscence. On what seems to be the fourth installment of this series, Meech speaks on topics of getting older, not being able to deal with trauma the same way anymore, and still being connected to God even though he’s long since escaped the church. Now he’s looking to the future, finally ready to embrace the fame he’d been so scared of reaching for years prior. He has a team, he has a vision, and he has the passion. He can’t quit now. The future’s right there.

Doc Drvddy - S P I R I T (prod. jkj)

Now Doc Drvddy has been apart of our hub since we we’ve started, a long-time favorite of the collective, Drvddy slides the best on atmospheric dreamy beats, grounded in light trap foundations, and boy does he and producer, jkj, deliver on S P I R I T. With beautiful flows and effortless lyricism the DMV native reminds us why he’s one of the hottest rappers out here.

Juice WRLD - Call Her Coraline (prod. By Jaden’s Mind)

Now Juice WRLD is a weird ender for this article, but considering we’re delving into the world of Soundcloud, I would love to shed some light on some amazing producers as well.For one, there’s Jaden’s Mind. An upcoming soundcloud producer who we actually originally found on Youtube. His remixes to famous Juice WRLD songs not only add another seven-to-ten layers of storytelling to Juice’s lyricism, but completely drags you into a new world, one where you couldn’t at first see Juice thriving. But of course, this is Mr. 999, and Jaden’s Mind take’s that aesthetic by the reins.

If you enjoyed this episode of SoundCloud Gems be sure to follow all the artists as well as check out our full playlist which features even more amazing music. If you enjoyed this interview and want to stay up to date with the content coming from Nefarious Supply you can find us on Instagram, Twitter, and for our newsletter you can sign up below. Be sure to also check out our new collection SZN 3 which dropped and use discount code SZN3 to get 10% off your first order!

Van Buren Records - Bad For Press

May 09, 2021 in Reviews, Artist Radar

So turns out they’re good for press!

The boys from Brockton have finally come together, after cultivating their sound separately over the course of two years the group decidedly united their various styles and strengths like the Avengers in the form of the collective’s debut album, Bad For Press.

Featuring members Jiles, Luke Bar$, SAINT LYOR, Meech, Andrew Regis, Homeinvader, Shelby Narcisse, KIRON, Ricky Felix, rlouie, and MosCouture, Van Buren Records has a highly saturated roster of talent that has been waiting to be let loose. Now with the drop of their first collective effort, the VB boys are now in top form, ready to show the world the talent that only Brockton can bring to the table.

Below are our favorite five tracks from the project! Let us know yours in the comments and enjoy the article!

It Is What It Is (ft. Luke Bar$, SAINT LYOR, Jiles, & Lord Felix)

A groovy, high-energy opener, It Is What It Is showcases various bodacious verses from the boys, starting with Luke Bar$, who speaks on lack of trust in others, time running out, and destroying pedestals. The hook is incredibly catchy with the production surrounding Bar$ voice beautifully. SAINT LYOR helms the second verse taking on topics of unhappiness, checking boxes off his hit list, and warning against getting him angry.

Jiles ego makes a surprise entrance before the man himself comes in for a gritty three-piece, taking on a reminiscent verse centered on life in the hood back in Brockton. Lord Felix closes off with the energy of a headliner, wrapping up the incredible starter in a nice neat bow.

Medic (ft. SAINT LYOR, Lord Felix, Jiles, Andrew Regis,

The second breakout single from the boys, the Medic features vocal performances from everyone outside of Luke Bar$, with the inclusion of new vocalist and longtime producer, Andrew Regis. SAINT LYOR comes in with a face-scrunching, opener, making it clear the distinction between his team and the outsiders.

He speaks on laziness and comfort-searching within the music industry and how complacency has taken hold of upcoming artists nowadays. Lord Felix vibes in hitting pockets right between the beat that accentuate the beauty of the hypnotic production. Jiles grounds the track with a stellar grungy verse, boasting his lack of trust for others outside of his collective.

Andrew Regis glides along this beat with a groovy few bars before handing it off to Meech to absolutely destroy it with a beautiful last verse. Ricky said it best:

“That’s how you f*ckin rap n*ggas rap.” - Ricky Felix

Girls Just Wanna Have Fun (ft. Luke Bar$, Andrew Regis, Meech & Lord Felix)

Girls Just Wanna Have Fun slows the album down completely, shifting it into a more relaxing atmosphere. Luke Bar$ leads you in with a trance-filled thoughtful verse about commitment, love, and faith.

The chorus sums up the tone of this track, loose, unbearing, and tranquil. Andrew Regis rides for his second feature of the album, doubling down on the groovy flow of before as he speaks about his newfound ties with a woman he’s met. Meech struggles between love and lust in his verse, backed by almost heavenly adlibs.

As the hooks swing back around, Lord Felix does what he does best and vibes the track to a finish with an infectious last refrain.

No Interviews (ft. Jiles, Lord Felix, Luke Bar$, & Meech)

Jiles comes out the gate with a fury like no other, throwing heavy and gritty bars left and right to start off this hype train of a track. An alleyoop of sorts, Lord Felix catches the verse and doesn’t fumble in the slightest, changing the vibe to fit his needs, a slower more deliberate and funky delivery.

Luke Bar$ gently takes it from his fellow member, softly speaking deathly truths overtop a haunting production. Meech absolutely snatches his part, taking an absolutely braggadocious tone to his delivery, using the intoxicating production to lead him out.

VVS (ft. Luke Bar$, BoriRok, Jiles, & Lord Felix)

VVS… this is our favorite track on the album by far, and completely encompasses the grungy, truth-seeking, introspective, and deadly aura that Van Buren Records embodies.

Luke Bar$ gives an almost triumphant verse on this third-to-last track, manifesting riches for everyone on his team, admitting to probably going a bit crazy, but loving ride ever still. The hook is insatiable, keeping your ears hooked till the next verse, and BoriRock delivers like no other. His clean and concise, yet, ferally active delivery gives a forboding head-thumping energy like no other.

Jiles does exactly what he was meant to do on this beat, speak truths of his Brockton life and hope for the future, all while lyrically making your face stink up. Lord Felix’s verse encompasses the entire hype of the track, ending it off with a bang.

But it seems as if that was but only a warning shot, for the Boys from Brockton have much more in store for us.

Meech - Barriers to Knowing

December 20, 2020 in Interviews

Meech, a heavy-hitting lyricist of Van Buren Records, has come back and blessed VB fans with a brand new EP. Barriers to Knowing rides the high of Meech’s lyrical strengths, such as his grounded storytelling and political advocacy. With key features, weaving their own versions of the concept of the EP. From praying fervently to carrying a piece on you at all times, Meech makes his words bounce on this six-track EP, and draws you deeper into the mind of the Brockton rapper.

Meech what’s up bro last we had you on was February so this is pretty cool to come full circle back to you at the very end of 2020. Give us an update on how your 2020 has been coming so far, what have you been able to accomplish?

2020 has been a challenging year, filled with blessings. To be honest, I'm still trying to figure out everything that's going on and feel this all out. Day by Day

What are some of your favorite projects this year, and what artists have been in heavy rotation?

I keep all Van Buren projects in rotation, outside of that I bump everything.
Freddie Gibbs did a lot of damage for me this year with Alfredo.

Even though 2020 has been crazy how have you been able to stay focused, and for artists that are rethinking their career path cause of this year what is some advice you would give?

Find your why & mission statement with making music, study the game tirelessly and ask for help from people who inspired you to make music in the 1st place.

So let’s talk about your new project “Barriers to Knowing”, what inspired it and how does the title tie into the overall message of the project?

To keep it simple, the project sums up the distractions that have stopped me from understanding and knowing myself. Spiritually, Mentally, Physically & Musically. Just wanted to yell at all the demons & barriers that keep steering me & my belief in knowing that I'm capable of so much more than what "they" say I'm worth.

How long were you working to put this project together and did you creative process change when putting this together or was it about the same?

Process definitely changed, this has been a year in the making. I had Breaking Point done in November 2019, but something was telling me to sit on it and build around this emotion.

So the whole project is solid but my favorite songs on there are Expensive Taste, Breaking Point, and Numb. Tell us more about each of these songs, and what are some of your favorite tracks on the project?

I love them all, my favorite song always changes. At the moment Dey Controlling Da Hype is the one for me cuz it applies to our everyday lies, legit can't escape that concept and it's message cuz we're living in that shit 24/7. And the project's on rap genius, description of each track on there.

Getting into features you featured four artists Andrew Regis, Vasant, and fellow label mates Lord Felix, and Saint Lyor. What made you want to tap them in for this project?

Andrew a swiss army knife, he's elite at everything. Vasant went crazy on the sax, no more to explain on that. And Felix & Lyor my brothers, always going to find a way to get a VB feature on all of my projects.

In addition to guest features the production is also top tier which producers did you work with for this project, and who mixed/mastered the final project?

S/O Mico Juno, AeBeats, Versus, Ricky / Tee-Watt & Andrew Regis. It would be its own article if I went into detail on the production process. My brother & VB member Rlouie mix/mastered the whole thing, we really went back and forth on ideas, did some different things with my vocals and got closer to crafting my ideal sound. Next project is where we'll keep pushing the boundaries, and figure more shit out that we haven't used yet. Can't wait.

So with the end of 2020 what are some of the goals you want to accomplish in 2021?

Keep growing my following, connect more with the people who listen to me & create a project that's better than this. Hopefully I can finally get an LP off and stop doing the EP's.

Any last words?

VB WorldWide, we violating all 2021 too. Peace & Love

To know means to be silent, utterly silent So you can hear the still, small voice within. To know means to drop the mind. When you are absolutely STILL, unmoving, nothing waivers in you, The doors open . You are part of this mysterious existence. You know it by becoming part of it, Press Play & Become part of my silence -

Dey Controlling Da Hype

The first song on the extended play, Meech comes in with an almost Playboi Carti x Pierre Bourne vibe. The Brockton artist comes in hot, spitting verses on his lack of need for advice, vibing with his brothers, and ignoring what Twitter tells him is goals in life. Meech’s main message on this track is to somehow open the listeners around them to the select few who control the wave and direct the hype. Throughout the song, Meech is warning his fans to be vigilant of the people who say they’re in your corner and end up not having your best interests at heart.

Expensive Taste

With a beautiful note progression in the back, reminiscent of the high-keys on a piano, AeBeats production on Expensive Taste makes the track 50% of what it needs to be. Meech adds the other 50% with his very introspective and personal verses on the song. Expensive Taste showcases Meech’s ability to reach into himself, confront the realities of his life romantically, essentially asking the person in question if she will stay with him, even if he can’t quell her expensive tastes.

Breaking Point

AeBeats shines once again, using a piano sample that sounds somewhat reminiscent of a Six beat on one of Logic’s projects. Meech slides on this beat, either way, showing expert lyricism and flow of the boom-bap type production. He speaks on reaching the end of his rope, mentally and emotionally with a woman, accusing her of only wanting attention from the wrong people, never learning from her mistakes, gossiping to her friends who don’t have her best interest at heart.

Breaking Point is about him arguing back and forth with his woman about how her actions are affecting him and this relationship.

Heaven’s Gates (ft. Andrew Regis & Vasant)

Heaven’s Gates is probably our favorite track out of the list. Produced by Versus, the eerie, cinematic start of the track, plus an unknown sample that replays until Meech’s verse starts, sets the stage for the rest of the track. The production also sounds melancholy in a way, sad that it was conceptualized, yet doing a beautiful job nonetheless.

Meech thrives on this track as he deals with the issues surrounding his journey to becoming a mainstream artist, and Regis comes in with a hard-hitting, head-nodding verse about the struggles of growing up in a system made to hinder your progress. Vasant’s final vocal run wraps a neat little bow and the beautiful track and adds to its overall importance.

Sprained Wrist (ft. Lord Felix & SAINT LYOR)

A Van Buren Boys are back on Sprained Wrist! Featuring fellow label artists, Ricky Felix, Lord Felix, and SAINT LYOR, Meech seems as if he’s in the comfort of his own home in this vibe-filled track. Showcasing Meech’s versatility, he speaks about fighting through the pain, working till he’s numb, and even being down when he’s up. Regardless he’s going to make big bank, cop a whip, with a big frame.

Lord Felix drops a future-focused verse about blocking out his haters, and calling out the fake friends who pretend to be in his corner, as well as thriving to be the best in the game. Lord Felix’s contemporary finishes with a heartbroken bridge that ties the track together nicely. Yet another great set of features.

Numb

Numb is the longest song on the album, standing at around 4 minutes. Meech starts by diving headfirst into his verse, spitting on various topics that have plagued him throughout the length of this project, reminiscing and looking towards the future, while being cautious of both, Meech reels in the message of this EP, which we think is simply another collection of thought processes and experiences the Brockton artist decided to expand on, and tell from his point of view, with the help of a few good friends.

From the middle to the end of the track a beautiful lead out, consisting of Meech’s R&B-esque croons, and a gorgeous guitar play session towards the end, and the lovely painting is finished, the end to Barriers to Knowing.

Big shout out to Meech for coming on and interviewing with Nefarious Supply. If you want to stay up to date with him and music you can follow him on Instagram and check out his newest projects Barriers of Knowing available on all streaming platforms.

If you want to stay up to date with news and content coming from Nefarious Supply you can find us on Instagram, Twitter, and for our weekly news letter you can sign up below, and we also just dropped Nefarious Supply Season 2. Use discount code NEFSUPPLY2 to get free shipping on your first order today!

Nefarious Release Radar - May 27, 2020

May 27, 2020

Stephen Jailon - Steezy EP

With his third release of the year rising rapper Ali Road rapper Stephen Jailon has shown that he literally does not stop working, and that’s more than a good thing. Collabing with Virginia based producer Breezy, Stephen is once again back in the spotlight with “Steezy - EP”, and honestly this feels a victory lap from him. Weighing in with 5 tracks, and under 15 minutes Stephen flexes his versatility on all five riding his own wave and staying focused on the sound that not only built his fan base but keeps him unique from his peers. All while sharing another solid piece of work that adds value to not only his image but most importantly his discography,

Best Tracks

Shalom Dubas - Mint, Green EP

Her first debut on our platform, rising artist Shalom Dubas is solidifying her name with the release of her newest EP “Mint,Green”. This six track EP is a good introduction to her and her artistry and shows that Shalom knows what she is doing musically. Featuring a guest appearance from Nate Joël, Shalom Dubas is an artist that should already be on your radar for underground talent. Be on the lookout for a new interview with her coming soon as well!

Best Tracks

Meech - I’ll Be Back Soon, I Promise - EP

Whatever is in the energy up in Massachusetts is definitely needed down here because one thing you can count on is the artists at Van Buren Records are always working and putting out quality projects in the process. and that that trend continues with the release of Meech’s new body of work “I’ll Be Back Soon, I Promise - EP”. It’s been a while since we heard some new music from Meech but that doesn’t mean he fell off at all, and the release of this newest EP feels like him picking right off where he left off and thats a good thing. Coming in at four tracks and featuring production from James Rogers, Zac Vaughn, Kiyoto, and Defstarz, as well as guest appearances from Luke Bars, Stefan, Drok, and Lord Afrixana. “I’ll Be Back Soon, I Promise” is Meech reminding his fans as well as his peers that he’s still here, and if this is any indication of what a LP will sound like we are more than excited to hear it.

Best Tracks

The whole thing from front to back!

Some other honorable mentions include YSL’s Gunna’s return with “Wunna”. Duñe & Crayon “Hundred Fifty Roses”, Hanani’s, “Waiting - EP”. Grace Webner’s “How Did I Get Here - EP”. Calagary Based duo PASTEL with their debut release “Divine”, DMV rapper IDK's new song “Mazel Tov” with A$AP Ferg, Migos’s “Need It” with NBA Young Boy and Eli Sostre’s “Curfew”. Let us know in the comments what your favorite release from this past week was! And If you want to stay up to date with news and content coming from Nefarious Supply you can find us on Instagram, and Twitter. We also recently opened the Nefarious Supply shop so if you want to support you can show some love here.

ISOLATION STATION EP 2 - The Hype Don't Stop

May 15, 2020

In this segment we’re giving life to the leagues of music being dropped every week during this trying, yet, interestingly enough, personal time. We at Nefarious Supply want you guys to always have a new underground project or creator, either on your mind, on your playlist, or on your feed in some way, shape, or form. In this instance, we’re doing this on an episodic basis and deciding to write on all the new music coming in through this station, five tracks at a time.

Our second episode brings us bangers from rap collectives such as DKTM and the Van Buren Boys, as well as sprinkles in some international sound from Calgary’s MainCiaga. Chicago newcomer Saeed accompanies Down Silence and Gussi Chamberlain in this six-track rotation.

Take a look! 😈

Van Buren Boys - Mo in the Benz

The newest release from the Brockton label, Van Buren Records, the VB Boys aren’t letting their foot off the gas this quarantine. Mo in the Benz is the third installment of the Van Buren Boys, which features every member of the label on a track.

Starting with heavy-hitting production from R Louie and an infectious chorus from Luke Bar$, Lord Felix slides into the flow, smooth as always.

He alley-oops to Jiles, who drops heavy and confident bars before slipping right back into the chorus. Saint Lyor helms the last verse and sets the production on fire for the last minute and ten seconds, closing the hype anthem off on a high note.

Pope Loud - Weight (ft. Blk Lexx & Beggar Allan Poe)

A Nefarious favorite, DKTM is back again with members Pope.Loud, Blk Lexx and upcoming artist Beggar Allan Poe, coming together for the silky and illustriously lucid track, Weight.

The first thing that catches your eye on Weight is the sheer depth of the production, from heavy bass and 808s to some sort of frantic synth progression and an overlaying sultry melody, the beat in and of itself is great.

Praise Baat Choy and Mouse. However, the vocals and lyricism of the track make it that much greater. Pope, Beggar, and Blk switch flows and pass verses smoothly throughout the duration of the track, letting off on various dark and brooding topics and ideals, bringing the overall atmosphere of the track to a head.

Saeed - Wicked Games Remix

Saeed is an upcoming rap artist based in Uptown, Chicago. In this dusky flip of the Weeknd’s Wicked Games, Saeed takes his time in the world of the XO King, embedding himself into the additional lyricism he spits over the slow and deliberate production.

He speaks on drunken nights, leaps of lust, fake love, drug obsession, and much more, flirting with the production as it strings him along from verse to verse. Saeed has proven himself a force to be reckoned with in the Chicago area and all of the Underground community. Look out for more from the artist on the Nefarious Blog!

Down Silence & Gussi Chamberlain - Exposure

A collaboration between Down Silence and Gussi Chamberlain, Exposure slows our playlist down a few bpms and adds beautiful guitar progressions and rightly placed hi-hats to complete the solid production. The vocals on this track are amazing and you could coast off them, alone, for the entire three minutes.

The fluttery melody gives the low-tempo beat to cruise all the way through the duration of the track beautifully.

MainCiaga - Drippin (prod. YeahthisMoh)

MainCiaga is a Canada-bred rap artist, based out of Calgary, Alberta. Ciaga has just released the video for his new song Drippin, produced by YeahthisMoh and shot by Alp Ardic. The soft beat with the light-hearted 808s and hi-hats pave a smooth road for Ciaga to steer his lyricism and flows along the beat.

It becomes a nice foundation for the grungy and heavy lyrics Ciaga spits overtop, and the video is honestly simply a good time. Take a look and leave a like!

If you enjoyed this week’s episode of isolation station be sure to give the artists featured this week a follow and checkout the rest of their discography!

If you want to stay up to date with news and content coming from Nefarious Supply you can find us on Instagram, and Twitter. We also recently opened the Nefarious Supply shop so if you want to support you can show some love here!

[MYMHM 1] Saint Lyor - IF MY SINS COULD TALK

May 05, 2020 in MYMHM, Reviews

With the hustle and bustle of everyday life and the new constraints and anxieties that courses through society today, it’s easy for you to overlook certain things. Well, we here at Nefarious Supply are here to make sure your dose of underground music isn’t one of them. Here with a new segment, Music You May Have Missed, the NS team thought of recapping enticing talent that we did not get a chance to cover the previous content cycles, making sure we get every single ounce of brilliance we can out for our followers.

Our first project on this segment comes from none other than our friends over at Van Buren Records! Straight out of Brockton, Massachusetts, Van Buren’s wildcard Saint Lyor dropped his debut album, IF MY SINS COULD TALK” in early March. The freshman album stores Lyor’s takes on life, love, passion, pain, heartbreak, hunger for success, and may have answered the lifelong question that was just addressed not even two days ago by the CIA.

Are UFO’s real?

We’ll find out in our review of the LP below, enjoy! 😈

Big Facts

Coming in strong with a heavy-hitting 808, a murky melody, and perfectly-timed beat, Saint Lyor slides on the beat like butter on toast, riding out the gate with a lyrical flag, letting everyone know he is not an artist to play with. Big Facts speaks on topics of status, success, failure, lost love and friendships, and religion, all over an in-your-face opening track.

Gossip

Lyor seems to glide from dark production to light-hearted melodies and a funky 808 subtly reverberating underneasth. Gossip is Saint Lyor’s outcry against fake friends, fake love, false claims, and mock appreciation. He starts the track off by stating “No I’m not, what you thought I was…” a clear and concise summary of this track’s main message. Don’t speak on anything you don’t know about. Be allergic to it. Stay in your lane, and please don’t gossip, ust as Lyor’s mother has told him time and time again.

FBI (Interlude)

This interlude starts with a voice recording of Lyor’s mother, who seems to not be too happy with his actions, however, basically states that as he makes his bed so he will lie in it, and the VB artist knows that very well. FBI is Saint Lyor’s acclamation of faith in himself as an individual and an artist, a reminder to himself that he is all that he claims he is, the groovy production underneath his raw lyricism prove this all the more.

Aunt Jemima

Probably our favorite track on the album, Aunt Jemima is Saint Lyor’s blockbuster track. With a cyberspace-esque melody overtop a heavy 808 and hard-hitting beat embedded underneath, Lyor goes in and has fun with it, effortlessly switching his flow, to and fro in order to accomodate for the bars spitting from his lips. The chorus is absolutely addicting and hits with the beat in a synchronicity that is almost enviable. Aunt Jemima was one of the singles Lyor released before its official position on the album.

Finsta

Finsta is a more grounded addition to our tracklist. On the xylophone-like melody and swelling production underneath, Saint Lyor speaks on the dangers of the unknown when it comes to those around him, the color of his skin, and its everyday complications within society today, as well as some flaunty bars sprinkled every other cadence. Finsta is definitely a favorite amongst fans.

Sweet

Sweet is the sixth track on the LP and showcases Lyor’s rapping ability yet again, signifying this far into the album, that his flows, lyricism, and creativity are as versatile as his beats are. Sweet is weighed with topics of capitalism, haters, the need for success, past trauma, and the names of his two friends, Zack and Cody. Sweet is a subtle yet serrated track.

LESS FRIENDS MORE BANDZ (ft. Luke Bar$)

The first song with a feature on the album, LESS FRIENDS MORE BANDZ has Lyor and his fellow VB comrade Luke Bar$ playing tennis with the various flow switches by Lyor, the expressive and morbidly passionate chorus, to the up-pitched lyrical domination that is Bar$ verse, the song goes to remind those who do him wrong that Lyor isn’t in the department for friends anyway.

Wifey

Wifey is kind of a self-explanatory track, in which Saint Lyor details all that he dreams of in a woman, everything he’s willing to give her, everything he’s peeped about the woman he’s with, the lies, the conniving attitude, the love, the toxicity on both sides, cheating, and to sum it up, all the ups and downs that come with being in a relationship you are not ready for, whilst adding a dash of self-serving, confident bars.

Aliens Exist

Looks like the question has been answered. Aliens indeed do exist with the addition of this mellow banger. On the track Saint Lyor alludes himself to an alien in a world not his own and understanding that fitting in isn’t always the best thing for you to grow. Instead, it’s realizing what makes him different that gives him the confidence to see himself above the competition. Those who see what he does look at him as if he’s alien because no one is doing what Saint Lyor is doing, how Saint Lyor is doing it.

This Is Not an Image

Another fan favorite and second-to-last track on the album, This Is Not an Image is Saint Lyor’s late-night vibe track on this project. Out the gate, Lyor alludes to his African culture by declining any fufu (an expression for stupid, also an African cuisine) in his pictures. Lyor spits Drake-like bars over a resonating 808 with well-timed hi-hats. He ends the track with a reality-checking sample. “I am not good, nor is any man who claims to be.”

SINNERMAN (Outro)

SINNERMAN is the final song on Saint Lyor’s IF MY SINS COULD TALK. The flute-like, high-synth melody soars across the ever-endorsing 808 below mesh like peanut butter and jelly with Lyor’s flows and introspective lyrical content. Lyor still doesn’t know who to trust, strives to be better than those who were supposed to be for him, acknowledges himself as only a sinner, and a man, and how success can ruin the dream you had to get there. SINNERMAN is the most Saint Lyor looks in the mirror and the hardest whatever he sees in himself stares back.

____________________________________________________________________________

If you enjoyed this review of Saint Lyor’s IF MY SINS COULD TALK, and want to reach out and show love, you can find him on Instagram as well as Twitter. Be on the lookout for more heat from him soon!

Meech - Van Buren Boy

February 24, 2020

Yo Yo what’s up Meech wanted to start this interview by thanking you for coming on and interviewing with Nefarious Supply. So to get this interview started tell us a little bit about yourself, who is Meech, how long have you been making music, and what is you end goal as an artist?

My guy, really appreciate you reaching out wanting to get to know me a bit more. Meech is a nickname I got in college from my basketball team, S/O to my Elms College bro’s. They birthed the nickname Meech in 2015. Thought it would be a dope rap name. I always as a 14/15-year-old freestyled at the school lunch table, with my bro & cousin from Florida would make me freestyle all the time. I’ll never forget rapping to Joey Badass’ ‘Waves’ instrumental for 20 minutes straight & them both saying I’m nice and can do something with this music. And then was capped it all off was the homie Latrell James letting me and my other homies record in his stu. Without knowing probably, he opened my eyes more to song writing and the idea of just being an artist and not some freestyle rapper who can’t make a record. Always appreciative of that!

I see you’re from Boston bro, how long have you been out there, how has this area influenced you as well as your music, and how’s the underground scene there?

I’m from Brockton, MA (Southside) kid born and raised my entire life, I was never really appreciative of Boston and scene until the blogging era started happening & highlighting up and coming artists in the early 2010s. From a Moufy, Jefe Replay, Latrell James, Gio Dee, Cousin Stizz, Michael Christmas, OG Swaggerdick & more. Shit was just inspiring to watch all the artists grow during that crazy Soundcloud run. I love what the scene is slowly becoming as it has allowed people like me and my Van Buren brothers from Brockton into some big shows & events within the city.

Who are some of your biggest influences, and what made you choose a career in music?

I would have to say, Kendrick Lamar, Childish Gambino, Big Sean, Drake, Jay Z, Cole & Kanye are for sure the biggest influences for me. In all honestly seeing my brothers Lord Felix & Ricky Felix chase the music so aggressively was everything to me, I’ve known them two since we were kids and seeing them chase their dream every day aggressively inspired me to do the same.

So you’re part of a pretty hot label based out in Boston called Van Buren Records, give us some background on the label, how it started, its members, how you guys got together?

You’ll have to ask a Jiles and Felix on the history of what made them start & call it that name, but I just know I would see them push the label in certain things they were doing. Whether it was Jiles blogging or Felix doing his music & clothing line; as time went by everything really formed organically. I met Jiles , Shelby & Moses during my freshman year of college through Felix. I always knew about Luke Bar$ from city buzz & word of mouth from Jiles back in 2014. He & Saint Lyor were homies with Ricky Felix, and we all just were asked to join the collective one by one.

Tell us about your experience so far as an underground artist some good and not so good moments, and what’s some advice you would give to new artists just starting?

Honestly, I love the beauty of the good and bad the music has brought me. I battle a lot in believing in my voice as an artist and really have a bad habit of wanting to “Perfect” the music. I realized that the best music I made came from natural emotions, life experience, and some third party advice from creative people I trust. I was just living my life, experiencing mad shit and then out of nowhere inspiration for a record would be born. Advice for new artists, I would say don’t hold onto your music; especially if you don’t have any music out. Let your mind be free, and put it out for the world to consume. You’ll never truly be satisfied with your work as a creative after it’s all said and done. But this music shit is bigger than you & your ego, it’s needed to unify the earth. Those who love it and try to understand will follow you in due time. Trust

So getting into music man i gotta say you’re actually one of my favorite artists so far. Some stand out tracks to me are; “Lemon Water FreeStyle”, “Coupe”, “Some Pain Can Be A Drug” 1,2, and 3. Tell us about each of these songs?

I appreciate that compliment man, for real. For the records, I’ll brief the meaning.

Lemon Water Freestyle – Record was just about cleansing my spirit with some thoughts I had in my mind during that time. Lemon water in real life has amazing benefits for the human body, advise y’all get on that wave.

Coupe – Was a record about me purchasing my 1st whip , and really touching both the good & bad that’s came with it. Shit has stressed me out at times, and also comes in clutch at times. Can be a double edge sword owning a whip when your young, this one of my favorite records. Wrote this after having my 2nd panic attack that year, stemmed from tress at work, bills & life.

“Some Pain Can Be A Drug” 1, 2, and 3 – I recently dropped a 4th part to this series I was holding onto for months. Long story short, pain can be addictive to us humans. Just as drugs & alcohol can be abused, the same goes for pain & struggling through shit. I’m for sure an abuser of this, something I’m working on. I know I can stop and change the temporary pain I go through mentally, spiritually & physically.

So you have two projects on your discography right now, “#Swish” which you dropped 2017, and “‘Ninefour”, which dropped this past year. Tell us about each album, what inspired each, and how does each one fit into your discography?

“#Swish” is a simple concept, ball is everything to me and my competitive career was coming to an end. So I wanted to make an ode to it with this project when I was graduating college. I was also fresh off a breakup, that relationship was a huge part of my 4 year college career and the person lover I am today. So it’s a lot of records about her and the idea of love on there.

“‘Ninefour” is more about ME and who I am as a human being in this simulation we call LIFE. Ninefour represents my birth year and just being grateful to being alive through all the shit I have been going through personally in my life the past year and half. I’m blessed and grateful to have talked about a bit of my problems, but they’ll be more music on the shit I’ve gone through as time goes.

So i gotta say man you and your production team are going crazy man, walk us through your creative process, and when do you know you have song you’re proud of?

Honestly the production I end up putting out are the ones where I legit find a cadence and concept that hits me immediately after hearing the beat. It’s a habit I want to break because sometimes I could go on a drought and over write a record and force the issue. I’ve improved more of that by just hopping in the booth and doing mad takes , going back to my freestyling roots and just say what I feel in that moment. It’s been a beautiful process,

So outside of Van Buren which other artists or producers have you worked with, and how was your experience with them?

Producers it varies, I’m trying to build more with people off social media. A lot of the outside production comes from email submissions or youtube producers. Building a relationship with those people via text so it feels more personable, but as of right now and future reference my focus has been more so building with producers and making shit from scratch. Have it be more organic.

With artists I always love making music with people who I can connect with in real life, I love to talk and really just vibe out and see if the energy is there. Once I’m able to feel that out then amazing shit happens. S/O Notebook P, really was the 1st guy outside of VB to agree on doing a feature with me. He understood my vision early when the music wasn’t as good and didn’t have a record to my name, forever indebted to that man. Never will forget that shit, he made me realize what type of artists I want featured on my music. Was too pure of a creative process.

What’s next for you in 2020, where do you see yourself by the end of the year?

End of this year I expect Van Buren Records to continue to build on this empire, and for me it’s about growing my fan base and getting a step closer to my sound. Also taking care of myself in every way , live as much as I can.

Any last words?

Appreciate you interviewing me and allowing me on your platform, more music to come & VB Worldwide til the end dawg

Who should we have next on Nefarious Supply?

Hit my guy Notebook P or Lance Jackson, them boys special.

Shout out to Meech for coming on to interview with Nefarious Supply, if you enjoyed this interview be sure to follow check out Meech’s music on Soundcloud which can be found above, follow him on Instagram and show love to the rest of Van Buren as well.

If you want to stay up to date with news and content coming from Nefarious Supply you can find us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook, and to get articles as soon as they drop you can sign up to be on our newsletter below, we also recently opened the Nefarious Supply shop so if you want to support you can show some love here!