From the streets of Surrey to the trending section on Youtube, Merkules has always brought an authentic style of lyrical hip hop over carefully chosen melodic beats.  Beat selection has always been an integral portion of Merkules’ music.  If you’ve paid any attention to the internet wave of hip hop, you’ve definitely heard at least one of Merkules’ covers. He’s racked up hundreds of millions of views on Youtube with his own renditions of famous hits such as "Old Town Road", "Shape Of You", and "Plug Walk".  He brings that same ability to his original content, broadcasting a vision every time he raps over a new beat.

On November 1st, Merkules is set to drop his new full-length album, Special Occasion. With features from the likes of Jelly Roll, Rittz, Tech N9ne, Hopsin, Paul Wall, and Young Buck, you knew Merkules would have to bring his A game on this album.  Bring it, he did.  He dives into all facets of a hip-hop album.  He’s got jams for the streets.  Jams for the ladies.  And jams for you when you’re in the car alone.  Let’s jump into a few of these tracks.

It’s no surprise “Bass” is one of the lead singles off the album.  Assisted by Tech N9ne and Hopsin, the trio drops a no-bullshit lyrical assault on this track.  It’s reminiscent of the song “Let’s Go” off of Travis Barker’s Give The Drummer Some featuring Yelawolf, Twista, Busta Rhymes, and Lil' John.  While the three rappers weren’t technically battling each other, you couldn’t help but imagine that the pressure was on when writing for this.  There’s no way you can get that much talent in a recording booth and not have a level of competition.  You could hear it throughout the song as each rapper delivers verses at the top of their individual games.  The speed and complexity of the rhymes offered by all three on this one is unmatched.

On the flip side, Merkules is often vulnerable and shows a sensitive side on this album.  For instance, he slows it down on his self-reflective track called “Trust Issues” and also explores deep parts of his romantic life on “In My Heart”. Most rappers who are lyrically technical tend to stay in their own lane and evolve around their strengths.  Merkules isn’t afraid to explore emotional topics.  He’s willing to tackle personal struggles openly in his music, which is basically a public forum.  It takes confidence to pull this off.

The final track is probably my favorite one.  On a chilling dirty south beat, Merkules teams up with Young Buck to drop “Time Go By”.  Both rappers chronicle their lives acquiring currency as time passes them by.  It’s a subtle note, but I also thought it was interesting that both rappers did work into their verses how it was important to them to stay out of jail.  I guess that would be the worst place to see time go by.

Merkules did well with Special Occasion.  It was thoughtfully crafted and flowed well from beginning to end.  He delivered introspective tales of his life in a smart and witty fashion.  His beat selection was also primo.  Most of the songs have trailing beats after the lyrics that allow the music itself to sink in.  This album brings a palatable brand of hip hop that is respected by both the streets and the industry.  This album has something for your homies, for your girl, and for you – so go pick up a copy this weekend when it drops.

As always, rock on my friends!     Hunnypot Approved!     Overall Rating:  8.7 out of 10

Artist:  Merkules LP: Special Occasion,   Release Date: Nov 1st, 2019, Label:  RBC/BMG