AZEEM inaugurates his debut EP with “ON REPEAT,” an intense and overwhelming track that encapsulates the cycles of struggle, rage, and survival inherent in the northern working-class experience. This release does not mitigate its intensity; it fully embraces discomfort, urgency, and emotional excess.
The production embodies AZEEM’s do-it-yourself and experimental philosophy, merging grime’s unrefined intensity with the somber rhythm of Memphis-influenced rap. The sound is intentionally claustrophobic, reflecting the sensation of being ensnared in perpetually recurring patterns. Each beat resonates profoundly, amplifying the emotional gravity conveyed throughout the track.
“ON REPEAT” serves as both an introduction and a cautionary note. It establishes the overarching theme of the project, revealing an artist unhesitant to confront the more sinister aspects of identity, environment, and internal strife. The song embodies a nihilistic tension while simultaneously conveying clarity and an awareness of the cyclical nature of existence, despite the sense of distant escape.
This release establishes AZEEM as a bold storyteller with a unique voice and perspective. “ON REPEAT” seeks not to provide solace but to challenge. This compelling opening statement immerses listeners in AZEEM's realm, commanding attention and precluding passive engagement.