Don’t mess with Zyad…
We all know that feeling when you hear raw, unfiltered talent go hand-in-hand with undying drive. It’s an elemental combination strong enough to move heaven and earth, one that’s been inherent to the many greats and OGs throughout time. But sometimes, that drive and determination isn’t always all sunshine and rainbows. Sometimes, it comes from the dark and untapped crevices of the soul, a place few venture and even fewer find comfort in. But there’s no denying that the art it makes for is absolutely sublime, the perfect mix between unabashedly badass and authentic. And if you’re at all craving that devilish mix to electrify your spirit into the next realm, you’re in luck, as Sydney rapper Zyad’s new tune ‘Alone’ (out today) is the living embodiment of all of the above, a brilliant example of what you get when you find strength in the darkness put the pedal to the fucking metal.
The track sees the OG busting his signature bouncy flow atop a lusciously dark beat produced by the ever-so talented Sumatra Beats, spitting harder than ever to affirm his inner strength in the face of doubt and criticism. Harnessing afro-centric drums, murky synths and 808s that sound like they were crafted by Daft Punk’s evil, more talented twins, the tune sets a super ethereal tone that at its core feels totally cosmic and boundless. We also gotta give the homie mad props for his vocals, from displaying an autotune mastery up there with La Flame to going on some sick as hell lyrical onslaughts (1:59 to 2:07 is bloody unbelievable).
The man goes out of his way to prove he’s more than just the bubbly, happy-go lucky bloke who brought us ‘PEAKIN’, rhyming about his self-made confidence and sense of self in the face of doubt and tribulation. He manipulates and plays with his flow so effortlessly well, going from controlled to frenzied to just completely otherworldly, rapping as if he was literally raised by Cole, Kendrick and Joyner to be the Sydney answer to U.S. rhythm and rhyme.
Opening up on the track, Zyad explains his intent and what we can expect from his upcoming project, stating “I wanted to show my diversity in sounds and give my listeners a small preview of what’s to come with my upcoming EP, and this track does just that.” For real, if the EP is anything like ‘Alone,’ homeboy is gonna light the local scene on fire, sparking a blaze so fiery and intense that no detractor or critic will be able to snuff it out.
The man is a clear rising star who’s mastered the ability to channel his tenacity into raw and honest art. He doesn’t need the co-signs or the validation, he’s got everything he needs already, and he bloody well knows it. It’s time everyone else knew his genius as well. Don’t let him get away from you folks, he’s not playing or waiting around for nobody. Be sure to follow him on Facebook and Instagram to stay up on all things Zyad.
