CD’S, DVD’S, Loose Squares Vol 2-UAES Album Review
CantBuyDeem is helping lead the new Chicago wave for many reasons. Some of the most important ones truly show his ability to stay dedicated to his artistry while at the same time reaching new creative levels many just haven’t thought of yet. Seriously, it’s not a lot this artist can’t do. This artist just put out a rock album this year that consists of some of his most powerful records, right after his classic “Reality Raps” album and movie release from last year that received many recognitions and awards. Both releases have some amazing merchandise drops that are super reflective of Deem’s want to bring together community through his love for music or his love for fashion and art overall. Deem’s ability to adapt on any beat he chooses however is what makes him an artist that is focused on uplifting the communities he is from. Each project he has carries powerful bar play and features from some of the most consistent artists also coming from the music scene..
But it’s Deem’s want to have some amazing collaborations on his albums that sets him apart. It’s what makes CantBuyDeem a true representation of the Chicago New Wave. He has always been about collaboration and he knows just how powerful unity can be for the future of the city. What will be realized soon is just how knowledgeable CantBuyDeem is about the hip-hop history in his city. Again his 2023 “Reality Raps” release is really bringing together so many amazing artists and producers that make up the music scene/industry from the past eight years even. From the legendary Ongaud production drop being heard again, to having legendary artists feature like Mfn Melo, Rufis Sims, Tierra de Shane, Calez and so many others. Deem has always been about connecting the scene/industry in his own creative ways. From his amazing entrepreneurship to his ability to show up for community. CantBuyDeem is one of those artists that is helping shape the future of the Chicago music scene/industry one amazing statement at a time. This new album is another great example of that..
“CD’s, DVD’s, Loose Squares 2” is a powerful collection of records that depicts the many emotions a hustler can experience. Even if it’s not from the trenches and you run a business or you’re pursuing your education. This album holds a lot of important lessons that can help anyone be more strategic with how they live their life. CantBuyDeem gives the listener twenty records that are abstract and very insightful while at the same time a banger shows itself each time. This album is packed with reflective bar play, witty metaphors, and entertaining skits. The album truly highlights CantBuyDeem’s ability to connect some of the very best in the city together to manifest something that is very reflective of what our cities future will be regarding the music and art. By far this is some of CantBuyDeem’s best work yet..
Another amazing point to highlight about this album is that the collaboration between CantBuyDeem and DJ Hustlenomics is not only historic but important for the elements of Chicago hip-hop specifically. DJ Hustlenomics is a mixtape DJ and pioneer of the drill music genre because of his works with Chief Keef, Tink, Dreezy, Z-Money and so many others. While CantBuyDeem has also been apart of the Chicago music scene since 2014, being around collectives like higher learning (Roy French, Black Ralphy L, AJ Peace etc) & having opened up for legends like Yelawolf, Nappy Roots and more. Some would think that a creative like Hustlenomics and CantBuyDeem wouldn’t be a good match to build with each other. This album silences that narrative and is a powerful example of how both artists are growing in ways many aren’t just yet. Even the album cover for this project is very important, it’s a shopping van pop up that’s in front of a mural that was created by the Englewood arts collective and photographer ThoughtPoet that shows Deem, Hustle and other artists that are helping lead the new Chicago wave. Again CantBuyDeem stays strategic with how he reminds the world just how much he cares about his city through his music and his morals. He has always been consistent with working with individuals that stand for something and shows it through their everyday efforts. This is one of the many reasons both artists are helping lead the new Chicago wave. From amazing features like Stock Marley, Chris Crack, Jeff K%nz, Tarxan Fenix, Rufus Sims, SolarFive, Asha Omega, Joel Q, King Crybaby, Rizzi Konway, Sarah Rose and more. To production from DJ Skoli, Hayward, OnGaud, Skeezus, River, Last Atlantis, and more. This album is really an incredible collection of records that showcase some of very best coming from Chicago..
Some of our favorite records to play in the office are “U R NOT The Father”, “Support Local Art” ft Rizzi Konway, “Dilla”, “U So Crazy” ft Call Me Sy!, & “Himmys & Hermiones” ft Asha Omega, Sarah Rose, Joel Q, & Rufus Sims. Take a listen and let us know what you think..