Tkay Maidza - Last Year Was Weird Vol. 3

 

The weaker moments in Tkay Maidza's 'Last Year Was Weird Vol.3 ' appear on 'Syrup' and 'Kim'. Not to say that there are bad, but Maidza's monotone vocal delivery on the hook on 'Syrup' and the somewhat repetitive chorus on 'Kim' was not appealing. However, the EP overall is still a solid punch. 


'Eden' is a pleasant opening for the EP with its smooth bassline and blissful strings and piano. Maidza 's rap verse here nicely 'flows like a yellow brick road', while her chorus is relaxingly soothing. 'Onto Me' is 'sweet like honey' with its summery vibe of production and Tkay and UMI being both captivating vocally. Then after 'Syrup' and 'Kim', Tkay satisfyingly rides the ominous wave of vocal samples on 'High Beams.' 


In the penultimate 'Cashmere', more fruitful vocal sampling occurs. The vocal sample on the break-up ballad is a lush euphoria that complements a rhythmic bassline and a graceful Maidza. The EP concludes decently with the dreamy 'Breathe' where Maidza is earnest, reflecting on her anxieties such as making 'too many moves out of fear' and not seeing much of her 'mum.' 


The third volume of the 'Last Year Was Weird' series is an enjoyable instalment. In the majority of the EP, luscious instrumentals supplement Maidza's charismatic vocal performances. Hopefully, we will see Maidza continue to do this in an album's length. 


Best Track(s): Onto Me, Cashmere 


7/10

 

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