Categorizing an album from Klassik is no short or simple task. His newest studio release, Young Rising Phenoms, is no exception. While perusing YRP, a fragment of a genre may rise to the surface only to be quickly replaced by a shard of a new style. A much easier assignment would be to compile a list of the Milwaukee artist’s influences, as many are discernible through his use of samples, beats, or lyrics.

While “Boogie” channels Michael Jackson and a dance-era from before Klassik’s time, “Light” hits slightly closer to the here and now. Reminiscent of Common’s “Go,” Wisconsin Area Music Industry’s Rap/Hip-Hop Artist of 2013 blends down-tempo jazz and vocal crooning with a smooth verse. Doubling as producer, Klassik layers the varying components rather than have any element stand out as a sharp change in direction. Perhaps some tunes from the musical melting pot of Chicago floated up I-94 and wafted through an open Milwaukee window. Without a doubt, the creative simplicity of “Light” is as fresh as a Lake Michigan breeze. 

About The Author

Avatar photo

A Madison native and UW graduate, Chris Kraemer lives and breathes between Monona and Mendota. His passion for experiencing an album in its entirety helps him feel at home while frequently apart from his beloved isthmus.