The Proof “Against All Odds”

From the onset their lyrical prowess is palpable their disdain for the contemporary mundane incessant of drivel that is defining hiphop is unsatisfactory on “Saturation”. The Proof offers a more insightful variety. The duo is comprised of Sweeden based artist Scoob Rock, and Australian based artist Sirgin. The production is exclusively manned by Relic. Both artists are extremely adroit in their skill set, one offering a smooth cadence and lyrical adeptness, while the other a distinct vocal presence, and engaging persona, both lyrically and musically inclined. The textures, and styles possessed by both culminate into a well rounded group. Adopting the boom bap, golden era palette influenced by the East Coast, The Proof is established on their riveting November release titled “Against All Odds”.

As aforementioned the introductory track is a defiant statement “Saturation”. Crafted with an exclamatory organ, a cool drum pattern, driven by a thudding kick, while the MC’s offer brash indignant remarks on pseudo contemporary musicians. Sirgin utters “Is saturation of the fakeness.”. Which sequences into “Sound”. The Proof establishes what makes them an anomaly. Scoob Rock raps “think outside the box and not stuck in it”. The backdrop is laced with a paranormal atmospheric sounds primed for the duos cryptic lyrics.

This then transitions into “You Know” featuring a head nodding drum arrangement, boosting cymbals, and hi hats. The Proof continues their onslaught on potential competitors with a lyrical barrage.

Followed by the ominous “What It Sound Like” where the group initiates a different theme flexing their versatility. This record is a mellow ode to KRS-One’s “Sound of da Police” broaching conversations centered around gun violence, and police brutality.

Comparably to the previous track “Love We A Send” sees the production shift from being synth dependent to organic instrumentation. Scoob Rock adds Caribbean influenced inflections that elicits character adding entertainment value while Sirgin matches with his own whimsical verse.

“Prediction” which posses the only feature on the whole album as The Proof enlists Marc Devine. Equipped with an unorthodox beat the agenda relayed, is to expand and takeover the overseas rap market. The lyrics are superb, but a lackluster track compared to the stellar tracks prior.

The next selection traverses into “Prove Them Wrong” laced by a profound lyrical performance by both artists. Sirgin’s precision is uncanny as he raps “I was slept on, played short, now I’m on this ball court, looking like Shaquille rolling like a four four”.

Sequencing into “Bad Minded” adorned with dark keys and crisp stuttering snares Scoob Rock interjects his Caribbean style once again. Imploring a natural mystic vibe The Proof plays their part on the journey allowing the production to dictate the destination.

The next selection “Proof” is one of the notable recordings on the album. The self titled track is a momentum shift for this album as far as mood, aesthetic, and content. Constructed melodically with a Jazzy essence both MC’s radiate with their most captivating lyrics hitherto. “Bars make you think, not only dance, proof right in front of your face like a trance” Scoob Rock raps. The Proof exchange trading bar for bar on this highly engaging offering. The production is at it’s apex as well divulging a neo soul induced palette. With caption worthy lyrics such as “Talk is only cheaper when you trying to sell it”Sirgin.

Swooping into “Mind” which finds the MC’s reiterating the intro track with a stern warnings to younger illegitimate musicians who push forward false narratives. This track poses a raw beat, with even cruder lyrics.

Then comes “Given A Gift” . An apropos title considering the group’s aim to use their talent to express their purpose while representing others and making a difference. The production is stellar featuring indistinct middle eastern samples.

Concluding with the apocalyptic “World Spin” which finds the duo departing with gems. Offering lyrics like “positive thoughts I write, every step towards the light, even in darkness I see shining bright” Scoob Rock proclaims, while Sirgin states “Just keep playing your destiny is gonna meet you”.

The combination of the two artists makes for a formidable paring. The two compliment each other well, Sirgin with his precise flow and cadence coupled with Scoob Rock’s voice, and animation makes for engaging content. The composite of two perspectives from two parts of the world makes for an even more intriguing listening experience that will leave you enraptured. This feat is also a testament to globalization and the interconnections produced by advance technology. Lyrically sublime, equipped with compellingly dense subject matter, and affable characters, this album is thoroughly enjoyable from commencement to completion. The instrumentals are mellow and Relic provides a gritty raw soundscape for “The Proof” to exhibit evidence of their extraordinary talent on “Against All Odds”.

Revised: November 16th, 2019.