Music Review: J’Von (@itsjvon) x Lakim (@lakimisalive) – Left EP

I know nothing about J’Von or Lakim. I don’t know where they are from. Nor do I even understand their influences and motivations. Yet and still, none of that matters. What matters is that their self-titled EP is actually quite impressive.

To put it simply, J’Von can rhyme. He may not always take on a topic. Yet, he can still swiftly let his lyrics float through the speakers. While “pineapples.in.babylon” allows for J’Von to get loose, “wind.memory” has him referencing that “special woman” that he misses. To keep it short, J’Von can rhyme.

Just as refreshingly irreverent as J’Von’s rhymes is Lakim’s production. Whether he chooses to use original concoctions or picks up a dope throwback sample, he knows how to add elements and layers to his music. “jstfornow” is the perfect example of his production ability. On this track, Lakim makes sure all of the bass, computer sounds, bleeps, and bloops are sequenced with soul. As attractive as J’Von’s rhyming is, Lakim did not slack behind the boards.

J’Von and Lakim has a nice future ahead of them (time given). This project isn’t a classic. Yet, what it may not have had in classic material it does have in beautifully made music. This duo is hungry enough to make music and talented enough to see progress. Thus, this appetizer of an EP should lead to a main course of J’Von and Lakim’s material.