Oddisee has been one of the most consistent voices in independent rap, a straight-shooting shit talker and cultural critic of the highest order. The dude doesn’t rest, releasing his last LP, To What End, last year, and now returning with a quick-hitting, action-packed EP titled And Yet Still.
On the new project, the DMV-based artist is both teacher and student. On the cut “Had to Improve,” he offers up his own take on the drill landscape, inspired by the sounds of the cities he frequents, while later in the album he even shares his take on yacht-rock with the track “Give Way.” Yet he also continues to pay homage to the tri-state area he calls home on “Live From the DMV,” and reflects on our extremely broken planet on “World on Fire.” Though brief, And Yet Still is a thrilling snapshot into the mind of one of rap’s great creators, an artist who never wastes an opportunity to let us into his endlessly fascinating brain.
To celebrate the new project and peek just a bit behind the curtain, we invited Oddisee to break down each track on the EP. Check that out below, and revisit his breakdown of To What End here.
1. “Had to Improve”
The landscape of music is ever-changing. I’m always inspired by the sounds blasting from cars as they drive by. I listen to Bluetooth speakers playing out loud on the subway. I notice the lyrics being quoted on the court as I pass by. As a student of hip-hop, I love to rhyme styles and flows. I’m always looking to advance my own. “Had to Improve” is my take on a drill flow. If we don’t adapt, we perish. That applies to music just the same.
2. “Live From the DMV”
My manager and I had been planning a big world tour for me and my DJ. I wanted new music that could perform well without my band. This track is a throwback to my early production style—simple, soulful, upbeat, and straight to the point. Keeping it classic with an area shoutout chorus felt right. Wherever I go in the world, I rep where I’m from. I can’t wait to perform this song in the DC, Maryland, and Virginia metro area.
3. “World on Fire”
I’m a Sudanese-American Black Muslim. I’m unfortunately used to war, oppression, apathy, and struggle. Something about now feels different. One way or another we’ve all been affected by current events. The world truly feels like it’s on fire. This song expresses how I feel about it all.
4. “Thankful For”
As dark as the world feels right now, I never want to lose sight of the many blessings life continues to provide. “Thankful For” is a song about appreciating life in all its forms over a Moroccan-inspired rhythm.
5. “Give Way”
Acceptance plays a big part in my life. Without being able to come to terms with my reality, I would’ve destroyed my career and relationships many times over. I go out of my way to practice forgiveness and understanding. I value a light heart and clear conscience over anything. “Give Way” is a yacht-rock inspired song for those who may struggle with letting go.
6. “And Yet Still”
The title track is the summary of this album. I wanted it to sound like a stream of thought: somewhat random, but all brought together by the idea of perseverance.
