Johnny Murray’s Spoken Words Against Ionut Murariu is a strikingly introspective EP that seamlessly blends spoken word, hip-hop, and soulful production. This five-track project explores displacement, identity, and the journey of self-reinvention and is dedicated to those who have struggled with the loss of familiarity after migration.
Released on November 15, Murray’s work is raw and innovative. It utilizes live instruments, electronic textures, and even AI text-to-speech to craft immersive soundscapes that blur the lines between man and machine.
The opening track, “Thoughts. No Poem,” introduces a meditative yet engaging atmosphere. Beginning with undulating beats layered with melodic singing, Murray’s deep spoken word delivery alternates with suave, catchy rap. The rapping lines, “I have been up all night/Baby, no stress” reflect themes of overthinking and existential musings.
The second track, “Self-Messianism,” offers a dynamic shift. Opening with choral reverberations, the song builds with electrifying beats and soulful backing vocals, transitioning into sultry, thought-provoking lyricism. Even those unfamiliar with the spoken word are likely to find themselves drawn into the vibrant energy this track offers.
The EP’s standout closer, “Tourist in My Hometown (Turist in Orasul Natal Feat. Ionescu),” merges English and a foreign language, creating a textured soundscape. The spunky rhythm, intricate guitar riffs, and collage of spoken word and singing form a rich tapestry of emotions that encapsulates the tension between nostalgia and renewal.
Fans of Eminem, Peter Gabriel, and Daft Punk will enjoy this unlikely piece, Spoken Words Against Ionut Murariu.
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Review by: Naomi Joan