I went off hip-hop for a few years, when everyone seemed to be doing the same thing. But lately it has captured my heart again, thanks to the internet, the age of the SoundCloud producer, and the melding of genres so many seem to be doing, and doing very well.
Appleby falls into the category of the type of artist SoundCloud has been great at championing, and he's definitely one to watch. He has had a slew of (and I hate this word, but it has to be used) bangers over the past few months, and doesn't seem to be letting up anytime soon.
The first track off his debut Mask & Lies, "Bitter Boy" is a hard hitting, post-breakup song that just ticks all the boxes for me. Understated production, refreshingly raw, relateable lyrics and soulful vocals work well with the rap, enough to warrant this track being on repeat for days at a time.
"#TellMyEx it's more fun when you're honest," Appleby says in the track description. And you do have to agree.
Be sure to keep updated on new releases through his SoundCloud page.