EP Review: On My Way

Tuning into the new EP from Auckland hip hop artist Phorrest, the intro track does well to set the scene for the rest of the EP. But wait, why is the title track of the EP in brackets and labeled Intro (On My Way!)? Perhaps the EP is not so much named with a title track, but instead with a lyric?

Either way, On My Way was definitely a great name for the EP, as it expresses the artist’s intended trajectory and gives great energy.

And one thing this offering is not lacking, for sure, is energy!

Personally, I tend to think of an ‘intro’ track as perhaps just a fragment of an idea, that also has the ability to stand alone. In fact, maybe needs to stand alone, as the best way to showcase it. On My Way could potentially fit into that category, with a little bit of ruthless editing to keep it at a length that’s just enough to tease the listener.

This EP just gets better and better as you go deeper into it, and honestly could have led with any one of the tracks on it. The second track, Late Night Love, is giving me The Weeknd vibes, and I’m really digging it.

Phorrest’s vocals really start to shine through on some of the deeper cuts, like Go Out. My personal fav is the last track Attention, with the melodies becoming more developed and interesting. With a voice like this, I’d like to hear more of that melodic side! While, of course, the barks, whispers, and growls definitely add to the intimidating flavour of the darker tracks too. Then we have the energetic party mood of Riding Up making it the perfect track to listen to on a long drive, or to get pumped up for a workout.

Overall, On My Way is an impressive effort from Phorrest with a really nice range of feels and flavours. A great addition to your New Zealand hip-hop playlist, reminding us to keep on following our dreams.