There’s an art to storytelling that few grasp when it comes to the arts. Obviously, when it comes to literature, finding the balance between showing and telling through written words is a science. Whether painter or photographer, they must find a way to truly ensure their picture amounts to 1000 (or more) words for every set of eyes that gaze upon it. Quite possibly the most challenging form of art to tell a purposeful story through is music, specifically rap. It’s one thing to put together a bunch of lines that rhyme and hope that when it’s all said and done, the gist is grasped by all who push play. It’s laborious to choose proper music as a backdrop to crafted imagery that goes beyond rhyming as it grasps the ear of all who hear. Speaking of  telling artful stories, Toronto’s own, Die-Rek brings forth the Life Is Butta Breath EP. Will he be able to draw us in with the tales he plans to weave together in this literal breath of an EP?

To give a little background on what to expect from Die-Rek, I’ll use the title of one of his best (known) songs- “Grown Man Biz”. Straight up and down, Die-Rek is a vintage emcee (and producer) that wastes no words and pulls no punches for the sake of acceptance or radio spins. Though it is preceded by a somewhat quirky (yet fitting) intro, “Sheila” gets right into the depth of what this project is about. Set over a simple boom bap instrumental by Relic, Die-Rek speaks of a woman that grew up in difficult circumstances but refused to be victimized. Encouraging in tone while still bearing a bit of a solemn feel, this song is overall fairly good. The only critique I’d really give is the drums are almost too reserved.

Moving forward to the next track, “Foundation”, I find what easily could be the best of the five actual songs on here. Between the smooth soundscape put together by That Brotha Lokey, the silky Aaliyah-esque vocals of Aisha Reventar, and the poignant flow that Rek always wields, the sum total  is a heavy replay song. This song is a warning of sorts, pulling from Matthew 7:24-27, as Die-Rek talks from a personal angle about his foundation in spite of what he saw growing up. He also paints of the picture of an individual enamored with persisting in the mask parade and what it looks like to have the sand crumble under them.

After a somewhat random 30 second Cosby sample loop, we get into “L-I-V-E”, a track that is explicit in its presentation of his Gospel-impacted life. This track is less storytelling, more proclamation from Die-Rek as he proceeds to pretty much lay out his mission and intention, almost clearing the air of any assumptions that might be out there. Although it is solidly written, I can’t say I dig the beat much at all. I’ve heard plenty of tracks that Die-Rek has produced himself, and this one is definitely not one of his best showings. Between the various synths and artificial guitar melody, the overall feel didn’t connect with me.

“Get Up” was the first single that dropped a couple months ago, featuring Jusachyl and ChrisJay. Produced by Die-Rek himself, this is the type of quality fruit his boards usually bear. The term anthem fits here, as all three emcees speak on maturing and moving, no excuses allowed. Honestly, ChrisJay steals the show in my view; she definitely needs to be heard more often. Only slight issue I had with the song is the cut quick ending, but that’s small details.

If there is the perfect way to end a project of Butta Breath’s ilk, “The Word” is it. Die- Rek again teams up with That Brotha Lokey to create some classic, vintage music that will play well for years to come. A combination of a simple bassline, crisp drums, subtle samples, and smooth scratches makes this 3 minute song too short not to play another few times in succession. This is probably the best lyrical showing for Die-Rek, I won’t talk too much about it, just listen for the gems.

Overall, Butta Breath, felt just like the title suggested, but a breath. Although the tracklist is 7 deep, the total runtime is just over 18 minutes. That said, it is a refreshing duration, with a couple of hiccups in the form of the intro/ interludes and underwhelming "L-I-V-E". Die-Rek is definitely a skilled storyteller, one that may harken some comparisons to Fresh Prince, Slick Rick, and others who had high points built on narratives. I view this as somewhat of an oppurtunity record, one that allows the unfamiliar to get a pretty strong idea of just what the Lord has put on Die-Rek's heart to share to the masses. Although he has plenty of quality in his discography (one may argue that his Die-Version Project is slightly better), this may be a first introduction of many to the smooth and calculated lyricist. He is more of an application rapper than theological teacher, yet there is no question that his "foundation" is firmly placed on "the Word". Definitely keep an ear out for this solid release and pray everyone with a breath considers life's brevity. 

Categorical Ratings Breakdown:

Originiality/Creativity: 3.5/5
Lyrics/ Delivery: 4/5
Beat Selection/production: 3.5/5
Concept/Arrangement: 3/5

For More Info:  www.die-rek.com