Leslie Baker has a way of spinning passion into something tangible, and he seems only to be refining that art within the lushice-produced “Whiskey” by Pirhate. And going on the evidence of that from his early days as a Boombap-inspired bedroom producer to today, when he’s one of Brussels’ and increasingly beyond most revered musicians, Baker shows just why here.
“Whiskey” begins with a brooding, textured beat that immediately evokes a somber and reflective atmosphere. Baker’s delivery is effortlessly compelling, a mix of grimy rap cadence and melodic inflection that carries openness with streetwise confidence. Pirhate’s additional touch helps elevate the track, and it just feels right. There's palpable chemistry here that sounds organic and unforced, summoning your full attention.
If anything stands out, it’s that his approach to music is varied. As a rapper, MC, producer, and beatboxer, he’s able to mold every part of the song with forethought. You can hear it in the gentle beats, the rhythmic turns, and when his voice slips into the instruments. It feels as if nothing in “Whiskey” is by accident. Every note, pause, and inflection is polished, reflecting the scrupulous craftsmanship of an artist who has finally grown into their talent.
Having hosted Kanga Jam sessions in Brussels and collaborated with French mainstay Oster Lapwassian since, Baker has developed his English rap style for audiences worldwide while maintaining the artistry that launched his career in the genre. “Whiskey” strikes that balance just right. It’s catchy and complex, smooth and gritty, but mostly it’s a song that lingers in your thoughts long after it stops playing.
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