Review by Amy
Reality Raps EP by Kid Colt & Gin Joints: A Grimey Swedish Time Capsule from 2009
Alright, let’s get into it. The Reality Raps EP is one of those projects that sneaks up on you like a stray cat in an alley—quiet at first but leaves its mark. Released back in 2009 via Discotheque à la Carte (yes, they’re as fancy as their name sounds), this little gem blends gritty hip-hop with grime vibes so sharp you might cut yourself just listening to it. And yeah, it’s Swedish. Who knew Scandinavia had such street-smart beats brewing under all that IKEA minimalism?
First off, kudos to Gin Joints for wearing multiple hats here—he mixed AND recorded the whole thing. You can tell he wasn’t messing around; every track feels raw yet polished enough to slap through your headphones without sounding overdone. Now, onto the meat and potatoes.
Tracks That Stick Like Gum Under Your Shoe
Let me start with “Love Don’t Live Here Anymore.” It’s not just one track—it’s TWO tracks because apparently Kid Colt couldn’t decide which version hit harder, so he gave us both. Smart move. This song grabs you by the collar and doesn’t let go. The beat has this moody, almost cinematic vibe, like something out of a noir film where everyone smokes cigarettes indoors. Kid Colt spits bars about love gone sour, but there’s no pity party here—it’s more like a cold acceptance wrapped in lyrical fire. By the second take, you realize how much depth he packs into what could’ve been a basic breakup anthem. Respect.
Then there’s “Reality Raps,” the title track, which hits different. If “Love Don’t Live” is introspective, this one punches you square in the chest. It’s got that classic grime energy—fast-paced flows, punchlines flying left and right, and production that keeps you nodding even when you don’t wanna admit it. There’s something hypnotic about how Kid Colt delivers his verses, like he’s daring you to keep up while staying effortlessly cool. Plus, the hook? Sticky as syrup. I caught myself mumbling it hours later while making coffee, which is always a good sign.
Why This EP Still Matters
The rest of the tracks—like “24H” and “Double Lives”—are solid too, but these two stuck with me like gum under my shoe. Maybe it’s the honesty dripping from each line or the way the beats feel alive, pulsing with a heartbeat of their own. Either way, Reality Raps EP isn’t trying to reinvent the wheel—it’s just doing what it does damn well.
And honestly? Listening to this album feels like finding a forgotten Polaroid in an old jacket pocket. It’s nostalgic, kinda rough around the edges, but full of stories waiting to be told again. Funny enough, the only thing missing is some ABBA samples—but hey, maybe next time, Kid Colt.
Final thought: Sweden makes great meatballs, sure, but turns out they also whip up killer grime-infused hip-hop. Who woulda thunk?
