In the realm of underground rap, few artists have captured the essence of casual pensiveness and deadpan punchlines as effectively as RealYungPhil. His journey began in the early 2020s, rooted in the litefeet scene, with a unique style that blended Connecticut-raised charm with the coolest beat selection in the underground. The Swedish beatmakers, including Yung Sherman, Woesum, and Gud, played a pivotal role in elevating Phil's sound, especially with the release of Victory Music. While the album had a celestial glow, it sometimes felt one-note, like a beatpack sent over email, rather than a collaborative effort. However, Phil's latest record, "Until Something Changes," marks a significant shift towards a more collaborative and intentional approach.
The real-life chemistry between Phil and the Swedish producers is evident on the track "Activated," produced by Woesum, Stacey, and Eurohead. The song opens with celebratory church bells, enhanced by crashing 808s that evoke the essence of drill music in the Northeast. This fusion of pop and rap creates a pocket for Phil's resolute and motivational lyrics, such as "It ain't shit that I gain from you losing/And it's nothing I lose from you winning." This track could have been penned by a motivational speaker, and its uplifting nature is further emphasized by the sporadic bursts of ticking hi-hats in "Remote," which add a slight bounce to Phil's optimistic breakthrough. The serene mood of "Sold Out Shows," produced by Woesum and Stacey, is brought to life with gentle drum rumbles, and Phil shines on this beat, delivering short, recognizable messages that resonate with listeners.
What sets "Until Something Changes" apart is the intentional collaboration between Phil and the Swedish producers. The album's production, which took place in both Connecticut and Los Angeles, as well as Stockholm, showcases a mutual exchange of ideas and influences. This shift from a one-sided beatpack exchange to a genuine collaborative effort is a significant step forward in Phil's artistic evolution, and it's a move that will undoubtedly resonate with fans and critics alike.
