Abrax Phaeton Doesn’t Miss On His New Mixtape, “ODD TEMPTATIONS”
By: Chris Buxton IG: @chrisbuxtonllg
Hailing from Philadelphia, emerging rapper, Abrax Phaeton, has been one of the most polarizing artists of the last decade. From his writing to his vocal delivery, he has proven that he deserves to be heard. In addition to his vocal ability, Abrax shines with his versatility. He has the ability to mix/master, record, and produce. These skills have allowed him to truly keep his creation process in-house over the last 10 years. Now, he enters our pages with his fiery new mixtape “ODD TEMPTATIONS”.
The mixtape marks his first full length project in 3 years. A hiatus that seems to have benefited his craft when you take a look at the A+ performance he delivered. With his keen ear and knack for creating groundbreaking songs, “ODD TEMPTATIONS” features Phaeton rapping with heavy bars over experimental beats. The project is cohesive, and it is carried by 13 captivating records that showcase his true ability.
My favorite songs from the project have to be “GIMMIETHATPHONK”, “WealthyWoman”, & “AboutUUUU”. “GIMMIETHATPHONK” is a hard-hitting single laced with resounding synths and engaging percussion. When compared to what we often hear in the mainstream, the record is unconventional, but it packs a punch that evoke genuine emotions. The single is fiery and shows the rapper’s bravado. “WealthyWoman” is another album highlight. With production from pillspiltter, Phaeton introduces his audience to a laid-back vibe that is perfect for the summer. In my opinion, the song had a comparable vibe to a Larry June record. “WealthyWoman” was very nostalgic, and it’s made up of dreamy textures and dives into the concept that bridges love and money and how he balances these two distinct things.
“AboutUUUU” takes the project to an entirely different realm sonically. With a mixture of dark-pop aesthetics and electronic elements, the record goes the unconventional route and shows how versatile the artist is. The latter is a dreamy off-beat lofi/chill hop track that has a lot of ebbs and flows that are just perfect for Abrax’s heartfelt lyrics about love, lust, and the intersectionality between him and an unknown lady. As an honorable mention, his song “CHECK” is one that has grown on me. I loved how introspective he was on this record. His lyrics pierced through the melancholic production as he manages his inner demons and tries to correct his errors. Overall, this is a must-hear album, so you need to stream it below.