Charlotte rapper Mavi’s latest release demonstrates a new direction that lyrically advanced rap is moving. Sonically, “HARRIET” is in line with the modern jazz-rap of Earl Sweatshirt and MIKE, but unlike them, Mavi’s raps are even denser in vocabulary and rhythm than his avant-garde counterparts. He whips out complex words and phrases that would seem to add a layer of pretension, but his drifting vocals create a laid back atmosphere that changes this to a much more accessible track. I will be keeping a close eye on Mavi from hereon, as he is clearly one of the most talented artists currently making music.

Listen to “HARRIET” here: