With exciting collaborations and an eclectic sonic palette, CUIBONO? proves Hollow Profit is a true poet. Released on 18th October, this album is sure to become one on frequent rotation for many.
Containing 17 tracks, CUIBONO? is an ambitious project. With an impressive array of features including Ben Beal, Wais P, Bruiser Wolf, Junii, Crimson Dot, Nomrah, Ty Farris, and Fat Ray, Hollow Profit and his producer 47 Quid have created an album that pays respects to boom bap and gangsta rap while carving out its own legacy.
“Sicilian Gold”, the vibrant lead single, is a collaboration with Detroit rapper Ronnie Alpha. It is driven by soulful old-timey vocalisations, sparkly piano trills, and a fresh drum beat–giving it a classic glamorous vibe. Hollow Profit says about the track:
“On the surface, it is about an all black outfit, highlighted by gold chains. If we look a little deeper than that, it’s really about fashion and feeling confident in the way that we express ourselves.”
The single “Clockwork” features respected Brooklyn rapper Wais P. It is an unreserved exploration of the ever-increasing demands of the hip-hop industry. The honesty is refreshing and insightful, as is the boom-bap type-beat.
Much like De La Soul did with their magnum opus 3 Feet High and Rising, this album incorporates samples and sonic influences from a variety of genres and origins. Such is the case with the longest track “Triumph”, which samples the relatively obscure soul duo Gene & Eddie’s 1971 “Darling I Love You”. The sounds blend seamlessly with the atmospheric beats for a true old-school feel. Hollow Profit credits his co-producer Nomrah as the “real saving force behind this banger of a song”.
About Hollow Profit Hailing from Duluth, Minnesota, Hollow Profit (real name Brody Burke) has established himself as a hometown hero. He first became introduced to hip-hop at age 14 when Eminem’s song “Berserk” came on the radio during a family road trip. From then on, he was hooked on the genre. But it was the release of Kendrick Lamar’s modern classic To Pimp a Butterfly that Burke began penning his own material, quickly honing his craft as a budding MC. Hollow Profit lists his main influences as Kendrick, Wu-Tang clan & MF DOOM–all of which are apparent in his music–from the complex wordplay of Kendrick to the personability of MF Doom.
Drawing on his ten years experience as a songwriter, CUIBINO? is a project long in the making, with some tracks dating as far back as 2021. Although he has several singles and a ten-track LP under his belt, Burke considers CUIBINO? his “first official album”. He reflects on his artistic intentions candidly:
“I would like to put out a few classics, work with the best lyricists at my disposal and inspire the next generation to do the same. I’d like to be able to help the next generation of MC’s along, expanding Hip-Hop’s ever growing legacy. I think this culture is important to carry on.”
CUIBONO? is a true testament to Hollow Profit’s ability to draw on influences from the hip-hop greats and the Duluth rap scene; while crafting his own unique and signature sound. With every track, one thing becomes certain–this is a man with a lot to say who knows how to say it well.
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