Setting the tone with a rolling drum and fierce vocal sample, TLBM (The Low Budget Manifesto) open their debut EP, The EP, Vol. 1 with a song titled Akoma Edo, which translates as “Still Here”.
The alternative “hip-hop meets soul and reggae” duo from Greece have a polished a vibrant sound, nostalgic in some ways, but super modernistic in production clarity and delivery.
We love the vocal textures in Akoma Edo and the unique and diverse drum patterns fused with memorable melodies and delivery that features both members of the group delivering contrasting vocals.
Mague Rilla and Therry Jay are the two members of TLBM. Akoma Edo cements the duo’s presence in this reality and is a great message to start the EP with.
The second track, Notos, is features a more synth led frequency and opens with a record scratching before poetic lyricism reminiscent of 90s European rap such as MC Solaar takes over. We love the excitement demonstrated in the instrumental breakdown and Notos, once again, cements the high production quality and extremely fierce delivery that TLBM. All we can think about is seeing them live under the Greek sun!
360º is the third track from the EP and features a vibrant vocal sample sitting at the top of the track that really sets the emotional tone for the journey of the release. The record scratches are present, giving a sense of a unique trademark for the duo.
Mague and Jay have been singing, performing, and playing side by side since their childhood. Throughout the course of the band’s union, they have won over the hearts of music lovers from all walks of life; performing at a variety of venues, making loads of public appearances, all the while recording new music.
When asked about their influence, TLBM cite, “The grooves of west hiphop and the vibes of Jamaica fused with the darkness of the urban streets…”
We can really feel that energy come through in the final track of the EP, titled 4 Ores which means, “4 Hours”. Again, cohesive with the first three tracks, 4 Ores lends itself to a more emotional delivery in line with the subject matter.
We love the bright production on the whole EP and are obsessed with the fusion of nostalgia with futurism on the mix. On a political note, the duo says, “We are trying to put some groove in our daily concerns about the difficulties in the European South.”
We cannot wait to hear more from TLBM, and Notos is also featured on our New Music Spotlight playlist!