PNTHN - “limbo"

SXSW 2020 - OEB Score: 8; Popularity Index: 5

Pairs Well With…Brockhampton, Magna Carda, Odd Future

Texas rap collective PNTHN followed up their exciting debut RICO with DEATH DIMENSION last year, a record that is a more psychedelic, explorative trap album than their more straightforward start. Opener “trapsody // flat swisha” establishes their power-in-numbers approach, trading verses over sludging, mysterious beats. While awash in hypnotic bass beats, PNTHN put their vocalists out front on DEATH DIMENSION still, keeping things interesting whether passing solo rhymes or lyrically moving as a true collective. (Kevin McStravick)

2019 Review: The easiest way to describe PNTHN is a rap collective in the vein of Brockhampton, but that alone is more an expression of variety than one of singularity. An eleven-strong rap crew with a six-member core, each rapper and producer bring their own style and intentions. PNTHN (pronounced “pantheon”) apply a pass-the-mic style to their music, creating mini songs-within-songs in timbre and tone. Given the focus on verse, PNTHN’s beats are relatively straightforward, influenced by trap, classic West Coast melodies and Southern rap bass beats.