Experimental hip hop outfit Jointhedots comprises of seasoned players from Manchester’s underground. Latest release The Rain is a thought provoking, mellow bop featuring twinkly keys, jazzy piano and the smoothest, laziest trumpet. The funky bassline helps to drive the classic boom bop beat.

MCs Dubbul O and Berry Blacc are a powerful combination, delivering unique but complementary flows. In this song, the rain is used as a metaphor for hard times,possibly reflecting the tough economic conditions of austerity and the cost of living crisis. The melodic hook is a mega catchy, well crafted call and response between Dubbul O and Berry Blacc. The lyrics of the chorus are insightful and relatable.

“It isn’t a surprise when the rain gets thicker/If you don’t exercise your mind, your brain gets sicker/Working everyday but your wage gets thinner/The flame flickers even when the rain gets thicker.”

In his verse, Berry Blacc creates evocative imagery of the city of Manchester and discusses the need for introspection and getting in tune with yourself. “Why are you so obsessed with having sex and drinking hennessy? Looking introspectively connects you to the remedy.”

Dubbul O continues with some strong wordplay and hints at finding escape routes and transcendence from the reality of daily hardships. “Tirelessly working through the graveshift, looking for parts of my spaceship. The rain hits a little harder than it needs to, but don’t forget the lessons it can teach you.”

Although pensive in mood, this thought provoking track is ultimately uplifting. It talks about holding faith and staying positive despite difficult times. The Rain is a blissful, smooth, jazzy masterpiece in a similar vein to their earlier track. “What Ya Missin’ “. Jointhedots have a huge gift for making chilled out, jazzy hip hop. My ears are super grateful that music like this exists.

Words by Red Hen

www.instagram.com/jointhedotsmusic/
https://jointhedots.bandcamp.com/