2nd exit & imaginary friend: all out
Francisco Espregueira
2nd Exit & Imaginary Friend have released the highly anticipated record All Out via the Sekito imprint. The duo, consisting of MC and musicians Lester Duval and Alfa Mist, joined forces with Imaginary Friend (formerly of alternative Hip Hop outfit Strangelove) to create an album that draws comparisons to classicists like Slum Village & A Tribe Called Quest, while maintaining a very distinct British sound and grit. The collaboration between Lester and Dan (Imaginary Friend) came about unexpectedly after years of not being in touch. Dan visited Lester in his studio in London, where they found themselves reconnecting creatively over collection of beats. Little did they know that these recordings would become the foundation for the EP. Several months later, Lester sent Dan a finished EP, which he and Alfa had built around Dan's recordings. It was a pleasant surprise for Dan and marked the beginning of their musical journey together.
All Out explores themes of community, togetherness, and the illusion of separateness in the modern world. The album takes listeners on a interior journey, offering different perspectives on the human experience and reflecting on the cycles and ups and downs of modern life. Throughout the five tracks, somber keys, soulquarian-esque drums, and dystopian atmospheres provide the backdrop for thought-provoking analysis of today. It also showcases a unique storytelling, blending classic hip hop elements with introspective lyrics offering a refreshing perspective on the world we live in. Consicous hip hop at his best accompanied by high-karat-gold instrumentation. Available on Bandcamp.