Track of the Week: Room 2

One of the most nurtured and unexpected collaborations of the year, genre-defying phenomenon Yxngxr1 enlists UK underground rap legends Lee Scott and Black Josh Room 2, a standout cut from his new album Teenage Motel.

Soaring to fame and acclaim since debuting in 2019, the Cardiff-born artist has acquired his own lane with the alternative space, pushing guitar-driven, lo-fi indie-rap into beholden mainstream ears. Having released a startling amount of content in the past few years, it’s no surprise to see Yxngxr1 return with another LP; his most focused, narrative-driven and introspective project to date. As a lover of all things Blah Records, one track undoubtedly stood out to me - Room 2.  

With piano that is almost Matt Maltese-esque and old school Hip Hop percussion, the facile DIY production elevates the softly engaging cut, showcasing the versatility of the album and giving it a much welcomed additional sonic dimension. Seeping wistful poignancy throughout its respective verses and hook, we hear how Lee and Josh use their different perspectives to interpret this leg of Yxngxr’s sprawling album-long narrative the follows a familiar tale of intrigue, attraction and dismay.  

A highlight amongst a compelling and forward-thinking album. Most definitely worth a listen!