Bloodlin3 is a refreshing group, bringing together culturally distinct El Paso with the tradition of bluegrass in Paducah. This tri-state collective certainly put some lightning in a bottle with their latest release, "Blessed Today" featuring Project Pat.
The group's sonic DNA reflects the golden age of Memphis, which connects easily to a hypnotic production style inspired by the legendary Three 6 Mafia with brilliant melodic delivery. Bloodline3, made up of Reinman Quiji, Mallachi, and Stephen King, refuses to hold onto these influences; rather, it builds upon them for its sound.
It starts with a synth arrangement that's nostalgic and exciting, carrying a fuzzy melody to cut through dark layers of sub-bass before breaking into a trap-influenced hi-hat pattern. Produced under the care of Virtuosic Productions, it's remarkably powerful, and leaves room between the percussion hits to breathe while still vibrating throughout the track.
If for new listener's the first verse sounds too much like an old pro stepping on the court, the innovative style becomes instantly familiar. The syllabic precision grows sharper with the style. The hook is a style that drills deep, becoming less of a mantra and more of a mission statement with each iteration.
The progression of verses displays each member's vocal style: double-times delivering technical excellence while paying tribute to fast-rap pioneers, while Virtue's style springs forward. A melodic touch then ends the cipher as the artist leaves bars that show why the group is above question when it comes to penmanship.
However, more impressive is that all the mixing throughout the top maintains clarity even despite dense performances. Every vocal got placed perfectly in its key pocket and gave lots for the intricate wordplay to shine without having to compete against the instrumental low-end theory. A masterclass in modern hip-hop engineering without skinning out the raw energy, straight from the golden era of the genre.
Transitional switching from verse to hook is made seamlessly, instilling momentum in an undertone to the direction of working with intent throughout the whole tale. Repeated listening is mandatory, and approachable even with a tantalizing edginess. With every attend, truth jumps a new time before your ears.
If you want a song to open your year authentically, "Blessed Today" is that song. It’s the kind of song that makes you want to roll down your windows and blast it at full volume with how it feels refreshing. Stream "Blessed Today"; it’s a jewel from Bloodlin3, and trust me, you'll want to keep listening to it.