London-based rapper K C Q gets all trippy and broods all over her self-doubts in her latest EP, Former Teen Model. Released on March 5, 2024, this collection of tracks candidly explores the fear of failure amidst the weight of expectations and mental tribulations.
Recorded in London and Los Angeles and mixed by Darren Callahan, The EP opens with “Haptics,” a haunting track that bustles with loud drums clanging over moody and boozy low music. K C Q delves into the depths of her doubts and mental health struggles with unflinching honesty.
“If You Can Make It” follows with a hypnotic energy driven by looping distortion and pulsating drums. K C Q gives life to her lyrics reflecting the frustration of striving for success amidst setbacks, capturing the relentless pursuit of achievement with the signature biting edge in her voice.
The EP turns poignant with “Put the Knife Away,” a powerful plea against self-harm. Over glitchy beats and smug guitar riffs, K C Q urges to put the knife away. The track’s dreamy atmosphere contrasts sharply with its sobering message, getting behind the appeal of the feverish intrusive thoughts.
The closing track, “Hydra, 8 PM,” dives into darker territory, enveloping you in a fever dream of psychedelic sounds and eerie vibes. As K C Q sorely navigates departure and uncertainty, the song builds to a mesmerizing crescendo, leaving us with an earful.
Despite only debuting in 2023, K C Q’s sophomore EP demonstrates remarkable growth and maturity as an artist.
Get inside the inner workings of K C Q’s mind with the deviously, mesmerizingly incisive Former Teen Model.
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Review By: Naomi Joan