7/10
Over these last few years, Texas-based newcomer Larando Suave has been busy crafting a widely distinctive direction in which to call his own. Grounded on a bed of hip-hop and indie influences, his aesthetic looks to create this brilliantly adventurous nature as it plays, adopting a raw and driven texture as often as possible. And after plenty of self-discovery and innovation recently, he now looks to break onto the scene with his debut studio album 'agriculture', a record that establishes his enigmatic nature to date.
Arriving all at once with no singles prior to release, 'agriculture' is a collection meant to be heard as one singular work, injected with this wonderfully progressive flow from beginning to end. With his own succinct vocal flow providing the focal point of this new release, he instantly cements himself as an inventive individual, one that never looks to rest on his laurels at any point. Whether it is exploring emotionally-charged tones or a more vibrant endeavour, Larando Suave always manages to cultivate something fresh and original to bring into the fold.
It may be his only piece of new material to date, but 'agriculture' certainly sets the stage for what kind of artist he is looking to be. Bold, imaginative, and engaging throughout, Larando Suave is certainly a name we need to keep a firm eye on for the months ahead as well.