The Unfiltered Genius of Fetti by Curren$y, Freddie Gibbs & The Alchemist
The Unfiltered Genius of Fetti by Curren$y, Freddie Gibbs & The Alchemist
Unpack the layers of ‘Fetti,' an EP that marries '70s soul with modern rap, thanks to the talents of Curren$y, Freddie Gibbs, and The Alchemist.
The Fetti EP, released five years ago today, is a masterpiece that combines the talents of Curren$y, Freddie Gibbs, and The Alchemist. Each of these artists has a unique style and background, but they all share a common thread: a commitment to artistic integrity and a desire to create music that resonates deeper. This project is a shining example of what can happen when experienced artists come together to collaborate independently, free from the constraints of major labels.
Before diving into the EP itself, it’s essential to consider the events that led up to its creation. Curren$y, a New Orleans native, had already made a name for himself in the underground rap scene with his laid-back flow and intricate lyricism. Freddie Gibbs, hailing from Gary, Indiana, had garnered critical acclaim for his gritty storytelling and versatile delivery. The Alchemist, a seasoned producer, had worked with some of the biggest names in hip-hop and was known for his sample-heavy, soul-infused beats.
All three artists had previously worked on their projects and collaborated in various capacities. However, the Fetti EP marked the first time they would come together for a full-length project. The anticipation was high, and the trio did not disappoint.
One of the most striking aspects of Fetti is the sense of artistic freedom that permeates the project. All three artists have had experiences with major labels, but for this EP, they chose to work independently. This decision allowed them to complete creative control, as shown in the final product. The EP is devoid of commercial filler tracks; instead, each song feels carefully crafted and purposeful.
The EP starts with “Location Remote,” a track setting the entire project’s tone. Curren$y’s smooth flow complements Freddie Gibbs’ more aggressive delivery, while The Alchemist’s beat provides the perfect backdrop. Another highlight is “Saturday Night Special,” where the artists reflect on their struggles and triumphs over a soulful beat that could easily have been lifted from a ‘70s Blaxploitation film.
“New Thangs” is another standout, featuring a haunting beat that combines elements of ‘80s synths with ‘70s soul. The track showcases the lyrical skills of both rappers as they trade verses, each trying to outdo the other.
The Alchemist’s production on Fetti is nothing short of spectacular. He skillfully blends elements from ‘70s soul records, creating a nostalgic and modern soundscape. This is particularly evident on tracks with “The Blow” and “Willie Lloyd,” where the beats could efficiently serve as the score for a Blaxploitation film. However, The Alchemist also incorporates haunting ‘80s-style synths, adding a layer of complexity to the project. The result is a unique sonic experience that pays homage to the past while still feeling relevant today.
The Fetti EP is a remarkable project that showcases the talents of three experienced artists at the top of their game. The decision to work independently allowed them the creative freedom to experiment and take risks, resulting in a fresh and authentic project. The standout tracks highlight the lyrical skills of Curren$y and Freddie Gibbs, while The Alchemist’s production adds a layer of complexity to the project. With its unique blend of ‘70s soul and ‘80s synths, the EP offers a sonic experience that is both nostalgic and modern.