Alfred. - “Don’t This?”

SXSW 2020 - OEB Score: 7; Popularity Index: 2

Pairs Well With…Tupac, Public Enemy, NWA

Alfred.’s music could be described as conscious psych rap over smooth beats with a quick, quiet spitting and talking flow.  There is intensity and anger in his voice but its balanced with introspection and a message both personal and political, having lost his brother to mental health issues and family financial issues that resulted in him dropping out of college. What especially caught OEB’s attention though are Alfred.’s offbeat rhymes and turn of phrases.  The stand-out track is “Eat with My Hands” currently only available on the SXSW website.  Near the end of this song, Alfred tells us that “like Obama I like my eggs fried, and I’m not talking omelets.”  He ends with a quiet declaration, “I’m giving my friends hope.” Given the adversity he’s faced, his positive message and determination to write about what matters to him is inspiring. (David Zlotnick)