The title of Kahiem Rivera’s breakout release, Be Quiet, Pt. 1 EP, isn’t so much of a command of silence as it is the mode in which he conveys his thoughts. His voice, slightly nasal and assured, slithers in between of whisper and a confession. The production is hushed, and many of the introspective lines can breeze past the listener as the muted psychedelic beats offer a dreamy hideaway. This isn’t a soft, pleasant listen though. Many of Rivera’s lines, while seemingly straightforward, hide rage and melancholy for his generation and the younger kids who will follow their footsteps. Guest vocals from artists like Rosehardt and snake eyes push the ethereal vibes of this release into hypnotic territories. Be Quiet, Pt. 1 EP is a release that is crystalline and fragile, as if at any moment the production or lyrics could cause the songs to collapse, yet it’s this vulnerable and delicate balance that makes Rivera such a compelling artist. To create with an emphasis on subdued feelings makes every verse and every beat feel vital. You can hear the full EP below and see Rivera live at Elsewhere on June 22. – Tucker Pennington
