On Friday, August 30th, Bocha released his latest album, WHAT’S THE MATTER. Produced by Los Angeles native and frequent collaborator Corey G, the album entails eight unique tracks dripping with inquisitive introspection, as its title insinuates. With balanced beats and fitting features, this album is not just one to dance or rap along to, but it will also have you questioning…
WHAT’S THE MATTER?
“Knock it Awf,” serves as the opening track. Released in July, the salient single leads us into the project with a grungy declaration, pointing towards those living in complacency.
“I beg you to stop, nigga quit it. You ain’t making no money or living.
Don’t wanna work, I don’t get it. You ain’t serving no purpose, just chillin.”
The album balances out with a laid back vibe on track 2, “Replaced,” featuring Mal London. London’s nickname of “Vibe Child” rings true as he lays down the song’s lone verse – a nonchalant narrative with a clear message: “Even you can be replaced.”
On “Sky Shooter,” Bocha taps Dobey Dobe for the assist as they candidly converse about one of their favorite herbs. There is a comfortable contrast within the lyrics – honesty about using toking as a tool for hard times, paired with a simultaneous highlight of the decision to live an aligned and intentional life in lines such as “…Would see I’m absent in moves that don’t align with what I do. Taking time with what I do…”
“WHERE THE LOVE AT,” possesses a nostalgic and somewhat sad-sounding sample loop, providing the perfect platform for Bocha’s incessant and moving monologue. “Guess I’m giving up on us. The time spent wasn’t fun…” he says within the first few lines. The song is truly breakup worthy. But in a good way.
The first half of the album is strong, yet it doesn’t fade out from there. Bocha and Corey G keep the project solid from start to finish, providing a polished, balanced, and well rounded sound.
There’s the eccentric yet cozy “POPular Strangers” with Sham1016, reminiscent of the essence of Wale’s track “90210,” which speaks on the unnecessary attempt to live above one’s means just to maintain a false image.
There’s “JOINT” with its rebellious guitar riffs and catchy chorus, “BREEZE and PEACE,” featuring Donte Thomas, with its prominent and passionate resolve to make it in this life, and to close out the project, my personal favorite track, “Mantra,” with its meaningful, motivational message.
“Have you talked with yourself? Have you checked in on your health?
Try not to relive those traumas cause you remember how they felt…”
Recorded in Los Angeles and Portland, WHAT’S THE MATTER has ‘Westcoast’ written all over it. What I love about the album besides its curious introspection and distinguished delivery, is how diverse the tracks are while remaining cohesive as a whole. It is obvious that Bocha and Corey G took their time crafting and curating. What results is a well rounded project that can suit different palates.
While Bocha has always been brilliantly brash and undeniably unapologetic in his lyricism, the intention interlaced in this album shows maturity and personal development. He wouldn’t be Bocha without being a bit boastful, however, within the arrogant air is an offering to go within oneself. Not only does he look inward to contemplate himself… He also turns the mirror towards his listeners, welcoming us to do the same. Take heed. I surely will.
On Thursday, September 5th, you have the opportunity to experience WHAT’S THE MATTER live, as Bocha headlines The Thesis at The Lollipop Shoppe. Presented by WOHM and Space God Productions, the show will feature performances from Bathlete, A’Sean, and Scooty, plus our resident DJ, Verbz on the 1’s and 2’s, you don’t want to miss this show.
If you haven’t bought your tickets yet:
1. WHAT’S THE MATTER?!
2. Get your tickets HERE.
3. Smile when you see me there!
WHAT’S THE MATTER is available on all streaming platforms, however you can take your support one step further by purchasing it on Bandcamp. I suggest that you listen to it, not once, and not twice, but as many times as you need to in order to make a positive change in your life.
And of course, as always, enjoy!
– Akunna