Blog of Sound

The start of an incredible hexalogy created by the joining of masterminds Shing02 and Nujabes.

Luv(sic part 1 starts us of with a sense of understanding what the hexalogy itself means to Shing02 and what has influenced him to write lyrics. His words explain his personal perspective on love and appreciation, with lines such as ‘bless this opportunity to say lyrics i’ve been meaning to say’ giving us insight into his feelings towards rap. For Shing02, it’s not so much creating lyrics to match a beat but simply opening his heart and saying what’s been on his mind and soul. Such a personal touch really gives the listener a sense of authenticity.

On the other hand, Nujabes (one of my favourite artists of all time) pairs Shing02’s lyrics with a hard hitting beat with a mean kick. Alongside this beat is a playful horn that’s cut up with samples from what sounds like comedy shows from the past. His cutting up of the piano riff that comes in and the downturning of the beat gives the listener a sense of looking to the past. Perhaps one of my favourite parts of this song is how he chops us the piano riff and then backs it with a piercing whistle. The melding of vibes that Nujabes geniusly weaves together just makes listening to this song such a joy. It almost makes you want to look out over a meadow during a mild autumn day and think about a previous love interest. You can very much understand how Shing02 was encouraged to rap about love and appreciation when listening to this beat.

Overall, Luv(sic) part 1 really speaks to the listener. Although I have listened to it countless times, I’m sure that even if you listen to it for the first time, it gives you such a sense of familiarity. What a banger and what a start to the Hexalogy!