By: Staff –
Calgary-by-way-of-the-Philippines R&B-infused rapper Lyrique is back with a new video for her track “Smoke Break”, which you can stream exclusively via Aesthetic Magazine below.
“Smoke Break” is a narcotic-infused reflection on love and cannabis that swirls to a chill rap beat.
“When creating lyrics, I sometimes like to use objects as metaphors to dig into other topics,” says Lyrique. “In this case, I’m comparing the sensation of a drug-induced daze to the feelings of being in love.”
Shot in the Forest Lawn and Bridgeland neighbourhoods of Calgary, the hypnotic video features various area landmarks that serve as a shout out to the rapper’s adopted city.
“Calgary doesn’t get enough love when it comes to hip hop,” he adds. “With artists like Cartel Madras getting some attention outside of the city, that perception is slowly shifting.”
Lyrique takes cues from the melodic rap vibes of Chattanooga, Tennessee’s YGTUT and Black Hippy crew member Isaiah Rashad and the moody R&B of Aaliyah while carving out a lane of his own.
Arriving in Canada in 2014 to work as a live-in nanny, Lyrique’s rhymes often draw from his personal struggles as a temporary migrant worker. Now a permanent resident striving to fulfil his dreams, Lyrique’s story is one of many within Canada’s Filipino diaspora.
Over the past few years, Lyrique has shared bills with JPEGMAFIA, Chali 2na, Tyga, Fetty Wap, and fellow rising Calgary-bred acts Cartel Madras and Too Attached. He has also made festival appearances at Sled Island Music & Arts Festival, and more. Lyrique’s debut full-length album will be announced later this summer.
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