On July 9th 2018, LA rapper EyeKeem released his new project Race Around the World in collaboration with producer Charlie Shuffler. The result is an energizing, bright, and sonically impressive tape. Clocking in at an unusually low 10 minutes altogether, the four track tape may not be a full dive into EyeKeem’s sound, yet it is still long enough to showcase his subtleties as an artist. EyeKeems colorful, vibrant sound takes centre stage on every single track as the young rapper explores new ways to embrace the typical trap sound. The project emphasizes light melodies over harsh distortion and aggressive flows, and EyeKeem chooses to illustrate his talent through hypnotic catchy refrains and hooks. On the first track “Mach 6,” EyeKeem raps on the hook “Movin’ high speed, it was mach 6. Bet I got the keys like a locksmith” showcasing firsthand his ability to create catchy music.
Furthermore, EyeKeem never loses sight of what he has set out to accomplish on the project, as he consistently remains true to his sound, thanks in part to producer Charlie Shuffler. When asked, EyeKeem stated that “Charlie Shuffler has been a go to producer for me! His style of beats fits my style of music. Plus he’s the bro we hangout like every other day,” and it is easy to see exactly why. The duo work perfectly together, and it would be hard to imagine any of these beats without EyeKeem’s serene flows on top. As frequent collaborators, Race Around the World demonstrates that the pair understand how to compliment each other perfectly .
On the second track “Go,” the duo are able to combine their talents and the end product is a bouncy, positive track perfect to listen while relaxing and just vibing to the music. On the last track “Halftime,” Shuffler employs the help of fellow producer Oscar100, and together they create a minimal beat that works extremely well alongside EyeKeem’s reverb filled vocals.
Coinciding with the short runtime, Race Around the World features only one feature, Hella Sketchy on the track “Glow.” EyeKeem explained to Underground Underdogs that the feature came about simply because the two musicians are friends, and that he felt as if Hella Sketchy was both a good singer and producer, and that he would fit well on the track. Fortunately, he does, and hearing the duo together on the track is refreshing and a highpoint on the entire EP.
Race Around the World is not a deep dive into EyeKeem and his artistry, rather it is a collection of strong songs engineered by himself and a team around him who both understand the sound that he wants, and work valiantly to obtain it. EyeKeem, still a young artist building up his fanbase, recognizes the power of short EPs, and stated himself that he chose to keep the project shortened to only four tracks because he wanted to release tracks that people would surely enjoy. Overall his strategy works incredibly on Race Around the World, as the EP has no weak tracks and an abundance of high points and visionary feats. While talking to Underground Underdogs, EyeKeem remarked that he wants to thank the fans for listening, which with the quality of music comes naturally.