Review: "Soul Clap" Album by TNV (That New Vessel)
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Detroit’s own TNV (That New Vessel) shows off an impressive blend of old school and contemporary hip-hop influences with his self-produced, latest album, “Soul Clap”. Leaning into the conscious hip hop revival that has been going on recently, it is nice to hear an artist that also incorporates the lighter gestures of that sound in a way that feels reverent.
Elements abound throughout the tracks ranging from R&B, old school Motown, itself a shout-out to his Detroit roots, and a whole slew of other items brought together with ease. By far the highlight comes from TNV’s assured vocals. Poised, polished, and with a degree of contemplation, these lyrics linger on in the mind long after the tracks have ended.
A whole slew of influences enters the fray. On the chilled-out side of the spectrum, TNV draws from A Tribe Called Quest’s analytical approach. Everything here does lend itself well to that tenor, from the cadence of his voice to the way he carefully chooses his words, making each one matter. Heavy funk flavors bring to the forefront the triumphant spirit of Marvin Gaye, for the samples have a tremendous poignancy to them, along with his exploration of the world around him.
“Soul Clap” the opener and title track, starts things up on a high note. On “All Gas No Brakes”, featuring Reggie Rocc, the song’s infectious groove and symphonic spirit stuns. Little pieces matter a great deal on the swinging “Trapped”, featuring William, for they cut to the bone. Warped, warbled bass rumbles through on “Not Today”. Economic rhythms roll on by with “Follow The Smoke”, featuring Jaooo, for there is a calm in the center. Noirish “Just A Vapor”, featuring Kelo, takes on a sly glide, for the heady mix engrosses.
Verses get carefully balanced on the fragile “Vanity”, with Kelo, again. Tempos get it twisted as “Fix My Crown” feels geometric in its design. Nice nods to the criminally underrated Venice Dawn’s “Something About April” emerge on the highly catchy “Trapped Remix”, featuring William Cata. Closing things off with a serious kick comes the finale of “Delilahs Web”.
Done with grace and style, TNV (That New Vessel) features an uncanny ability to tie together tight verses with ease on the “Soul Clap” album. Listen to this DOPE new project now.