Omari Parsons (a.k.a NewBreedMC) is a Toronto rapper emerging in the game and he hopes to turn heads and perk ears with his new EP, This Side of Power.

The seven-track EP is produced entirely by rapper and producer RELIC. His production uses refreshing soul samples throughout — think early Kanye West. This is especially evident on tracks like “Not A Love Song” and “Let It Go”.

NewBreedMC’s lyrics are inspirational, fun and thought provoking throughout. “I’m a calm fellow, read songs till I’m yellow / No Coldplay, I lick shots like Carmelo,” he raps effortlessly on the track “Face 2 Face”.

NewBreedMC introduces himself on the opening track “The Fall”. It starts strong with lyrics laced with descriptive metaphors; however, the track begins to fall short near the end, with the lack of progression in the piano production and tone of voice. This problem reoccurs on the track “Right Within”. The tambourine-driven piano loop gets dull quickly and Lauryn Hill’s “Doo Wop” sample seems out of place.

The track “Let It Go” is the clear single from the EP. The track would translate well in a live performance setting with stunning production and a catchy chorus.

RELIC steps up to the mic on “White Trash & Black Jokes”, with both artists spitting a verse about racism and how, “we’re all in the same boat.”

This Side of Power is a great tease from the Toronto rapper. With something as refreshing as this, we have to hope a full album is in the works.

Words By. Matthew Anness