The Atlanta rapper presents a dynamic pairing of tones on his latest single
On the heels of his celebratory #SURFDAY EP released in February, 21-year old Surf is confidently building momentum. As a connoisseur for left-of-center sounds, who also boasts his own personal catalog of production, the Atlanta native consistently exemplifies his refined style with divergent cuts like “F Love” and “A Little Joy.” And, with his latest, “Bad Habits/Clutch,” Surf proves how sophisticated of an echelon he is operating from.
While the track is evidently composed of two contrasting offerings, it flows without friction. Perfectly succinct in nature, as the composition clocks in at just under three minutes, there’s a certain unanimity that links it all together. The source of this harmony, aside from Surf’s wide range, may be the song’s other common denominator: Fifty Grand production.
On “Bad Habits,” Surf soars with cogitation above unbroken pianos and unifying synths, courtesy of Fifty Grand and iankon. This half of the song is centered around examining his shortcomings, as he admits, “I leave it all up to God, I ain’t even been to church / I say my favorite verse, hope God don’t make me worse.” Moving forward, he recounts his drug use, relationship issues, and trips to the hospital. Over generally spacey yet upbeat production, Surf is vulnerable, but stays honest. He even says, “I put down my cup, told my girl I’m not poppin’ these seals no more.” AutoTune-coated monotony transitions into an accompanying high-pitched vocal, as his energy crescendos back into the chorus. Then, soon enough, everything changes.
Upon one last synth note, a heavy and distorted 808 transforms the soundscape in an instant. Surf trades his melodic groove for aggression, as harrowing ambience replaces the previously enticing piano. Produced by Fifty Grand and Sleepsound, “Clutch” is the opposite of its predecessor. As zealous percussives clash, he bombasts with velocity: “Got a big bag but I want more / And my bitch bad but I want more / You can fuck me girl he won’t know.” In a flurry of funds, armaments, and victoriousness, he holds no punches. Despite such a noticeable contrast, his sonic foundation remains intact. This might be what makes Surf special; as he fearlessly dances between a range of sounds, he never loses his character.