Bren Joy - “Henny in the Hamptons”

SXSW 2020 - OEB Score: 7; Popularity Index: 4

Pairs Well With…Smino, D.R.A.M., Chance the Rapper

Bren Joy’s style of hip hop is notably breezy, built on classic R&B and funk backbeats, but performed with a fresh, youthful cool. The Nashville artist released his debut record Twenties last year, a smooth and welcoming vibe that bridges old and new school influences with ease. Jazz piano lays down the viscus groove of the title track and highlight “Scottie Pippen”, a trend that nicely underpins the gentle, yet hopeful tone that resonates throughout Twenties. Bren Joy performs with an equally sweet sing/rap mix of melodies on Twenties, influenced in 90s era and before, but adding some contemporary hip hop flow in pockets to prevent a full throwback approach. (Kevin McStravick)