Written by Teyquil Skelton
Music is something that most people gravitate to and it’s been like that for years. It’s therapeutic, relaxing, charging, motivational, emotional, and transcending all at the same time. It’s even better when an artist knows how to tap into these modes of connection through communication.
Reggie Baril, also known as, Toby, does just that with this new project called The Outside. The EP takes you on a ride where the vibe is not your average rap/hip hop material, but a more in-depth journey where creativity is the main focus and the lyrics flawlessly follows like a journey in a dream.
The first song is titled “Osiris,” which is an ancient Egyptian religion that represents God as a multiple of things like, agriculture, the afterlife, resurrection, life, the dead, and vegetation. So to my understanding, Toby is more than just a lyricist but a messenger, composer, enthusiast, and producer. He’s not to be labeled as one thing but respected as an entity of so much more.
The following song “New Car” is the second titled track on The Outside and the vibe is mellow, almost like an indie float vibe that just soothes the soul and could very well count for calm meditation or a long car ride.
As I was listening, I could picture this new project going in many directions and being welcomed by multiple cultures. In this business, the more crossovers that are attempted and executed in the process, the better.
The Haiti native naturally flows within cultures with no problem. I see no limitations but lots of open doors in which his music allows for those opportunities to come forth. The third title track is “Southside” which to me sounds like a gangster lean/head nod that occurs in slow motion but is impacted with loads of artistic language that keeps the pot boiling with curiosity as to what Toby would say next. That’s the kind of thing I like when checking out songs. Keeping me curious and interested in what you’re saying will always win me over every time.
“Playout” is the single that introduces the EP and this track has that hip hop/trap sound that just commands for movements because the beat is hard to resist. Toby is really good at merging melody to beats and this track is a great example of how he balances the two for a good groove that an audience can adapt to.
“Cascades” is my favorite track on this EP hands down. It’s the perfect indie groove that captivates through melody and leaves you wanting more of the short track that’s just too good to end so soon. I’ve found myself playing this song back to back wanting to extend it at least two minutes longer. It’s that good in my opinion and I think you all might feel the same once you take a listen.
The last track is “Wishes” which is kind of like an underground vibe or maybe an album filler. I didn’t really get into it as much as I’d hoped to, but hey, not every song is going to grab you. However, the overall vibe of the EP is awesome and I’m glad it will get the opportunity to be shared with all of you.
Sometimes music and artists have a way of surprising you. And this EP surprised me. When the surprise goes over well you’re guaranteed an amazing time ahead. Toby’s new EP is just that and I can almost guarantee you’ll find something in it for yourself that will surprise you too.
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