Produced by Prince Pronto and released by Trypp Records and Monk Music, “The Origin Project EP” is described as “a journey through nostalgia where the past and present meet the future of soca” (“The Origin Project,” Monk Music, January 2021). The six-track EP was released on January 8 and features well-known artists as well as some new voices. In a year where soca is being reimagined to fit a non-traditional Carnival season, the music feels relevant, nostalgic, and leaves listeners reminiscing on the playing mas experience. Alternatively, the EP aims to bring the atmosphere of the festival to your homes.
The riddims feel familiar yet each artist takes us on a journey that connects us throughout time. The first track, “Party Central”, is sung by Kerwin Du Bois and features Noelle Archer; performing artist, vocal director, and member of Du Bois’ group SPUT. She is not entirely fresh on the scene having released “More Love” in 2018. Skinny Fabulous is feature number two on the EP and reminds you not to wine and tell in the song titled“Act Normal”. It takes listeners back to a feting atmosphere where they can imagine similar scenarios that may have happened in the past. Up and coming artist, Lucrativ, graces us with his silky vocals on the next track“Go Down”. Don’t count him out because he isn’t as established as the other artists, he was chosen to be on the project for a reason. The future of soca is bright with artists like him on the rise. Viking Ding Dong sings“Fed Up”, words that echo how many feel right now, “Fed up of this face mask / I just want to play mas”. Skinny Fabulous is featured yet again on track number 5, “Selfish”, where he bellows “Because at the end of the day / I live my life for me”. He’s selfish when it comes to partying and playing mas and doesn’t need a drinking or liming partner to mash up the place. Ending with a track from the king of soca himself, he encourages us to have a private party while public ones aren’t allowed. He encourages you to pelt your “private waists”, and allow your living room to become your stadium.
Let this EP bring Carnival to you.
