JoogSzn‘s album Where’s Joog? finds the artist putting a refreshing twist on West Coast hip-hop, alongside a star-studded cast of guests, including Earl Sweatshirt, OHGEESY, E-40, and the late Drakeo the Ruler. After rising in the Los Angeles scene for his work with artists such as FrostyDaSnowmann and the late Ketchy the Great, Joog disappeared for some time due to legal issues, before returning to produce for the likes of E-40, Too $hort, Shoreline Mafia, and more. Where’s Joog? sees him once again connecting with some of these legendary names atop bassy, infectious production that grips the listener from the get-go, and doesn’t let go until the record is complete.
Fast-paced, crisp percussion and heavy, addictive bass-lines make up the core of the instrumental on Where’s Joog?, as the Joog’s production flirts with classic West Coast hip-hop while always keeping his sound refreshingly modern. Songs like the opener “Not Related” and “Yokin n Scrapin” exemplify this with their driving bass-lines and laid-back yet vital drums, with ominous keys and synths floating above. “Bleedem Like Joog” and “Still Serving” take on a trap-influenced sound with slower, hard-hitting drums and booming 808s, paired with laid-back, charismatic verses. The catchy, vibrant “Shopping For Dior” contains a highly memorable bass-line, contrasting with cloudy synths chords. While “Slide” takes on a melodic tone, providing a versatile sound with snapping percussion, rich bass, and engaging vocal contributions from Kee Riche$, Sauce Walka, Lil L, and Bompton Nephew. Other notable guest appearances include Earl Sweatshirt’s charismatic, sharply-crafter verse on “Ion Rap Beef”, and West Coast legend E-40’s commanding, dextrous appearance on “Vintage & Adventurous Bay2LA.”
A refreshing, boisterous dose of West Coast hip-hop, Where’s Joog?‘s muscular bass-lines and snapping, infectious percussion are likely to linger in the head of many listeners. Paired with notable guest appearances from an array of West Coast legends and mainstays including E-40, Early Sweatshirt, and more, Where’s Joog? provides stylish, addictive sonics across 20 tracks.
