Determination runs through Still High…, the latest album from Vancouver rapper Raw Soul, and it’s the kind that only comes from someone who has genuinely fought for stability. Balancing life as a full-time lawyer while independently crafting music from his home studio, Raw Soul approaches hip hop with the mindset of someone constantly building two worlds at once. Across nine tracks, he reflects on growth, survival, gratitude, ambition, and healing. You know it comes from the heart because the album feels grounded, like it’s the sound of someone finally catching their breath after years of chaos and realizing they’re still standing.
Musically, Still High… blends introspective hip hop with atmospheric production inspired by artists like J. Cole, Kendrick Lamar, Mac Miller, Jonwayne, Atmosphere, and Saba, yet Raw Soul never feels derivative. His voice is sharp but reflective, technical but emotionally open. The production leans heavily into lush instrumentals and immersive basslines, particularly through the contributions of producers like eeryskies, whose soundscapes help shape the album’s moody atmosphere.
Opening track “Run Free” immediately grabs attention with fast-paced hooks, hard-hitting percussion, and smooth melodic undertones. It’s short, punchy, and energetic, functioning almost like an adrenaline shot to kick the album into motion. Raw Soul’s rapid-fire delivery keeps the momentum high while still sounding controlled and focused.
The title track, “Still High,” slows things down slightly without losing intensity. Deep basslines rumble underneath, shaking percussion while Raw Soul raps with urgency about moving low-key through life, carrying ambition and caution in his voice. There’s confidence here, but also self-awareness — the perspective of someone who has learned success means little without inner peace.
Then “On My Way” arrives as one of the album’s emotional standouts. Gliding piano melodies drift over slow, heavy drums while Raw Soul delivers some of his sharpest writing. His voice carries bite, gravity, and sincerity as he raps about creating beyond hate and carving out his own lane with doubled effort. The line, “I am just tryna great,” lands imperfectly yet powerfully, capturing the restless hunger driving the entire project.
What makes Still High… compelling is honesty sharpened through discipline. It’s reflective hip hop with ambition in its bones and gratitude stitched into every verse.
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Review by: Naomi Joan