— Atlanta-based Hip-Hop artist Gnarly Marley comes off his almost year-long hiatus delivering his first project of 2023, BRAIN FOOD.
Originally from Ellenwood, Georgia, Gnarly Marley has proven himself to be one of the dopest Hip-Hop talents in Atlanta. From his highly introspective motifs to his immaculately crafty pen game, Gnarly Marley brings something fresh and exciting to Atlanta and the rap game at large. If you still aren’t convinced, look no further than his latest project. Coming off of his acclaimed 2022 album Gnarly Noises 2 — an album that earned a spot on our Top 20 Albums of 2022 list — Gnarly Marley gives us something to snack on with his aptly named EP, BRAIN FOOD.
The 8-track, 26-minute EP is a concise offering from the Atlanta native, but his complex lyricism and deeply thoughtful subject matter, combined with his raw and authentic delivery, makes BRAIN FOOD a hearty, nourishing listen.
From the album’s opening track, “Free Paper,” it’s clear that Gnarly Marley is on a mission — not only because of his unapologetic vow to acquire significant wealth, but also because of the angst and emotion expressed in his need to attain it. With such an opener, it was only right that he follow up with “Pursuit of Happiness”, featuring Lord Sko, where both rappers ponder over their ultimate pursuits and even remininsce on some of the peaks and valleys they endured along the way.
Produced by frequent collaborators Mr. Pia Classics and Dp0mmy along with acclaimed Lo-Fi producer Wulf Morpheus, BRAIN FOOD features top tier production consisting of soulful samples, classic boom bap influences, and expert timing and sequencing giving each track it’s own identity while ultimately resulting in an incredibly cohesive project.
BRAIN FOOD also includes guest features from Lord Sko, Rummie Abiff, MALCLM., Real Deal Pheel, GEETA HOU$E, Martyy Jugg, Esoderic, The Abnorm, and Galepsy.
Although there are truly no ‘skips’ on this project, some of its highlights include “LA LA LA,” “Don’t Forget About Me,” “Family Tithes,” “13th Floor,” and “Galepsy’s Outro.”
Listen to BRAIN FOOD and watch the full “Free Paper” music video above.
As an added treat, check out episode 47 of our More Bars Please series starring Gnarly Marley including a few lyrics from BRAIN FOOD.
Also, be sure to follow Gnarly Marley on Instagram to keep up with his latest moves.