yo,
2nd Exit is the self-titled debut project from the British Hip-Hop/Jazz Rap duo 2nd Exit, a collaboration between musicians Lester Duval and Alfa Mist.
The two initially connected while working on Barney Artist’s Bespoke EP before teaming up with artist Kaya Thomas-Dyke to release this project in 2016.
With this debut, 2nd Exit clearly draws inspiration from legends like Slum Village and A Tribe Called Quest, blending classic influences with their own unique sound.
Their introspective British Rap layered over Jazzy instrumentals brings to mind artists like Loyle Carner — thoughtful lyricism over smooth, soulful beats.
From here, let’s break down what makes 2nd Exit a great debut.
The project kicks off with a cool, small intro that really sets an introspective mood — preparing you for the experience ahead — before smoothly transitioning into “Say It Is.”
Kaya Thomas-Dyke then shines on the chorus of “Passing Through,” elevating the track so much and bringing a fresh touch to the record with her unique voice.
She comes back even stronger, in my opinion, on the outro and second single, “Dawn’s Insight.”
Seriously, dude — what an angelic voice.
The outro also features Cosa Nostra Music on production, introducing a new sound and adding some diversity to the record.
The album takes a whole turn in production here, and personally, I think it works really well, as this might even be my biggest highlight of the project.
Moving on to the most mainstream track here, the lead single, “If You Wouldn’t Mind,” released a few months before the album, on March 27.
The song sees the group reflecting on personal struggles — insecurities, anti-socialism, and financial struggles — the same issues that plague so many underground artists.
There’s also a cynical critique of societal norms and consumerism, played off with the irony of a debt collector charging a fee to someone who clearly can’t afford it in the first place — But bill collectors, they won’t leave me alone / They want a fee, that ain’t feasible though / Can’t you see that I’m broke?.
They do it with finesse, too, making this both a great storytelling moment and a satirical take on real-life struggles.
Some other standout moments include the piano on “Decent Audio” — really love it.
The production and vibe on this track are just as cool as the one before it, “It’s Alright.”
Both tracks have this smooth, laid-back feel that really adds to the album’s Jazzy, introspective tone.
This self-titled project continues to be 2nd Exit’s most acclaimed work — and I can see why.
As I mentioned at the beginning, they bring that Jazzy Hip-Hop vibe mainly inspired by legends like A Tribe Called Quest and also Digable Planets, especially when collaborating with Kaya Thomas-Dyke for that feminine touch.
At the same time, they mix it with a darker, more introspective tone reminiscent of Loyle Carner.
Not exactly chill or laid-back, 2nd Exit stands out for its conscious and self-aware bars, combined with satirical commentary laid over dope beats.
The project was fully written by both Lester Duval and Alfa Mist, showcasing their lyrical and musical chemistry.
That said, despite being a relatively small project, I found myself disengaging at times due to the low mood and slightly repetitive production and delivery.
However, contributions from Kaya and Cosa Nostra Music definitely made the record richer, adding more depth and variation.
Cosa Nostra also created a quick and interesting documentary about the creative process of this record, which I really enjoyed watching.
Final Thoughts
All in all, I think this record is great and definitely worth checking out.
An easy listen for a late-night sesh or just to get lost in your thoughts.
I’ll admit, some listens did put my mood down, but I feel like that’s the point — to reflect on issues we all have but never really confront.
Even with that heaviness, it’s still a solid project that’s totally worth a listen.
7,3/10
Highlights:
- “Dawn’s Insight”
- “Passing Through”
- “Intro — 2 Bars”
Peace,
Isi