“La Familia” by “Li V Ft. Lil Gangsta” is the kind of track that stands out boldly from its peers in terms of how effectively the vast, creative input fuses with the professional and stylish output.
There’s a freshness to the sound, and part of this is the undeniable experimentation featured throughout – at no point is the track predictable or a victim to complacency. And yet, at the same time as this, there’s a soothing feeling of repetitiveness; a hypnotic ambiance unfolds as you listen – just as you hope it would when seeking out new hip-hop or rap to rhythmically mellow the day away.
“La Familia” has a great hook, first of all – this is what you take away from it after listening. Next to this is an undeniably crisp and satisfying level of production, the classic energy of hip-hop has been fused with an intense, synth-heavy backdrop, making the track both mellow and thick all at once. It could be the track of the night, the night out, the energetic vibes required for that, or it could be the track for the chill-out, the after-party, in a way. It’s a good place to be, the track sounds good in all contexts, and what’s more – the artist’s leading rap vocal has a lot about it that is unusual and unique.
The track has a great vibe, it’s addictive; the rhythm is consistent, so it keeps you captive, but the sounds are all very unexpected and unusual. The leading riff has a retro and fairly simplistic nature to it, yet the choice of notes adds to the vibe, they add to the intensity, which somehow builds and builds despite the music seemingly remaining on the same plain throughout. It’s a clever bit of production, and it’s always interesting at all times. It’s the sort of music that is difficult to place within a certain environment, but then without a doubt will fit quite brilliantly amidst whatever it is that you’re doing when you hit play. It’s fun, it’s atmospheric, and it’s easy to get into.
The leading voice has a confidence and tone to it that fits in with the energy and vibe of the music really well. The flow of the performance is something to take note of. There’s occasionally a struggle in underground hip-hop to find that sound that is far enough removed from what’s already been heard, yet still, all the while managing to talk about something that would appeal, or that a lot of people could relate to. In this case, the flow is what grabs your attention, the character and personality that comes through in the performance – and this is through the little things, certain infections, certain moments – the artist comes across as being himself entirely, and that’s something hugely valuable.
