ChemDogg7’s new record kicks out with the identity-soaked anthem of ability and personal strength, “Chemical Kush,” which features an unexpectedly up-front, gritty, and captivating vocal line backed by a strangely distant, uniquely inventive soundscape.
Francisco Lopez’s professional name is ChemDogg7. Lopez is a new artist and rapper from Aberdeen, Washington, which you may have heard of. Aberdeen is not well-known for its population, economics, or Scottish eponym. Although it is recognized as the “Gateway to the Olympic Peninsula,” the city is most known for being one of its most eminent former residents.
Kurt Cobain grew up in the city on the Pacific Northwest coast. The tiny and rainy fishing town inspired the Nirvana frontman’s life and music for better or worse. His experiences have also had an impact on Aberdeen’s most recent musical export (ChemDogg7) in suburban Washington.
Throughout this new tune by ChemDogg7, a haunting theme rises and falls hypnotically. The beat immediately sets the tone, with a late-night vibe, a trap-inspired groove, and a sort of ambient quiet.
Mellow rap lines powerfully establish ChemDogg7’s voice tone and intelligent, inventive lyricism. The three-and-a-half-minute composition contains an outpouring of thoughts that actually engage thinking and motivate a particular mode of consideration.
Intermittently, fast bars shine brightly, never excessive but beautifully balanced with humorous sketches, sound bites, and instrumentals. “Chemical Kush” demonstrates that breathless poetic skill to an incredible degree.
The underlying link to the “Chemical Kush” notion is maintained throughout, and ChemDogg7’s individual relationship with it, his delicate balancing of catchy and broadly relevant elements, shines brilliantly every step of the way.
The track’s beat works wonderfully from the start – its multi-layered, almost vintage-style soundtrack is a joy to disappear into. Then there’s ChemDogg7’s voice, which is mild in tone but expressive, rhythmically diverse, and occasionally sounds like freestyle or a diary entry.
Throughout, artistic creativity has been a source of strength. “Chemical Kush” pays homage to hip-hop icons of the past. The vocal rhythm does as well – the song has a powerful hook that is an easy hymn for modern listeners.
The speed is addictive, and this is an easy personal favorite because of how gratifying the flow is and how soon the music and general groove become likable.
