Factor Chandelier has become one of the most sought after and respected producers in independent hip hop today because he’s not only extremely talented and inventive, but he’s also prolific. Just about a month after he released his latest solo album, Wisdom Teeth, he turns around and releases an EP with Los Angeles emcee Matre called Who The Crown Fits.

Of course, it’s not just that Factor is talented and prolific, it’s that he knows how to shape a sound that will fit the artist he’s working with. That is to say that even though they are coming out just about a month apart from each other, Wisdom Teeth doesn’t really sound anything like Who The Crown Fits. Matre has a delivery that is probably closest to AWOL ONE, with a voice that has a lower register and sort of half-sung delivery. This style on the mic works great with the production that Factor cooks up, which draws upon Brit-pop and Odelay-era Beck to deliver this funky-symphonic pop style of hip hop that at once sounds familiar and strange at the same time. Most importantly, though, it works really well, and it allows this platform for Matre to spit his rhymes that move back and forth between these existential thoughts and narrative tales, all with some great pop hooks that will stick in your head all day and have you singing along in no time. The idea behind the title refers to the notion that everyone has their own crown to claim, and that it’s up to us to step up and fulfil the role we were meant to perform. It’s an idea that could easily come across as corny, but Matre makes sure to balance that message of hope and encouragement with lyrics that acknowledge the struggle to live out your dreams. The end result is a unique and meaningful EP.

I don’t know what other projects Factor has up his sleeve as he tries to get his ducks in a row before his first child is born, but 2018 is off to a good start for him. Who The Crown Fits is a unique musical experience that puts Matre in a great position to deliver some of his best material to date.