— West Coast rapper and producer seiji oda finally releases his much-awaited project, lofi // HYPHY.
By way of Oakland, Los Angeles-based artist seiji oda is quite the talent, never hesitating to experiment musically in every way much thanks to his father — an experimental musician who helped him to cultivate his creativity. After years of studying music, playing the drums and bass, and learning to incorporate his knowledge into his lo-fi production style, all it took was his 2019 hit, “Trapanese” featuring his brother lil ricefield, to take him to the next level. Now, after continuing to make a name for himself and releasing three singles over the past few months along with a 3-pack EP just last month in preparation, seiji oda delivers his latest project, lofi // HYPHY.
The highly-anticipated project is a serene exploration of unique sounds coupled with airy vocals embodying a bold, yet beachy, Bay Area essence. Oda’s production perfectly complements his signature care-free storytelling aesthetic as he seamlessly blends elements of Hip-Hop, Alternative R&B, Jazz, and his father’s signature experimental style into his artistry.
When expanding on lofi // HYPHY, seiji oda stated,
“I’ve been trying to cultivate the lofi hyphy sound, to me it’s a combination of hyphy Bay Area music and lofi soundscapes. That’s my favorite genre to listen to, when I’m sleeping, when I’m studying, when I’m doing anything. l love lofi and the type of soundbeds they have. After listening to the songs, I thought I could compile my loosies but I felt like I should make this a cohesive project. This sound and type of music means a lot to me. It’s not the only thing that I do but I think for people that know my music and understand me as an artist, they know this is quintessentially me. This is the seiji sound you know? if I’m gonna stamp it, I need to cultivate it.”
Previously released singles, “Aero3”, “Gochujang” feat. lil ricefield and “Take My Time” are all included on lofi // HYPHY. The new project is a culmination and reflection of seiji’s rich Japanese, Panamanian, and American heritage combined with and drawing influence from some of the artists he grew up listening to, such as Mac Dre, Erykah Badu, Souls of Mischief, and Monte Booker.
The tranquil young artist aims to provide a utopia of harmonies that further expand on his resounding ethos of gratitude, family, and self-care. Expect to see the multifaceted artist continue to blossom this year.
Check out the full lofi // HYPHY album right here. Also, be sure to follow seiji oda on Instagram and Twitter and stay tuned for more news to follow.