New Project: Chakra Channels by Konscious Kel(@KonsciousKel)
“Chakra” is a Sanskrit word literally meaning "wheel." These centers were named as such because of the circular shape to the spinning energy centers which exist in our subtle etheric body, the non-material energetic counterpart to our physical body. There are seven main chakras and they are located along the spine extending out the front and back of the body. Each chakrahas a number of specific qualities that correspond to the refinement of energy from the base-level material-self identity, located at the first chakras, up to the higher vibration spirit-level awareness of being at our crown. These energetic centers represent our highest level of integration split, prism like, into a spectrum of colors.
After releasing three dope singles, Pittsburgh native Konscious drops his debut mixtape, Chakra Channels. The album artwork is an accurate depiction of the sound and feel of the project. There are hard hitting anthems like That Power, Chaos and Psychodelic; lady loving tracks such as Intimate, and political lyrical exercises in the form of the Intro and Outro. Chakra Channels is also full of self reflection that is sometimes realized and otherwise questioned. The hunger for knowledge is real and seems to be powered by psychedelic drugs and great self awareness. I love the intentional misspelling of Psychodelic as it seems Konscious believes he is out of his mind. It’s not positive that this craziness comes from the drugs or his persona in general.
Not only is Kel a talented emcee, he has great skills behind the board. The production and the delivery/lyrics are equally vital to the quality of this mixtape. The versatility of the beats are something to be admired. There are some interesting samples and jazz/electronic/boom bap inspired production sprinkled throughout.
My favorite tracks include Survival, That Power, and Insight. All have their own personality. CC is available for stream and free download as well. Don’t sleep.