Offie Mag

To be far from home is, for some, the worst thing in the world — but for others, it’s something to strive for. It’s a feeling shared by a child going on their first sleepover, someone moving out of their parents’ house, or those relocating to the other side of the globe. But one thing that feels right at home — in my earphones — is the new EP from Connecticut-born rapper RealYungPhil.

Connecticut. Home of ESPN, New Haven pizza, and the UConn Huskies. Famed for its autumnal foliage, it's where RealYungPhil was born and raised before making the move to the City of Angels. A frequent collaborator of evilgiane and Swedish producer Gud, Phil’s latest sees the heavy lifting done by Stacey, who appears on the production of every track — anchoring the project in a distinct sonic identity.

That consistency makes Far From Home a cohesive listen, even as a variety of co-producers bring in their own flavours. The EP journeys through alternative, ambient, cloud rap, trap, and drill. Phil brings his signature lackadaisical flow, but on tracks like ‘One Up’ there’s real weight behind his delivery — a sharpness cutting through the haze.

The solitary feature comes from the UK’s own kwes e on ‘Naked Porsche’, offering a soft-toned vocal contrast that’s both surprising and welcome.

This is Phil’s first extended release of the year, and as one of the underground’s most consistent workers, it likely won’t be the last. In just over 10 minutes, Far From Home gives us a snapshot of where he’s at creatively. He might be far from home — but the homecoming? That’ll be even bigger.

You can listen to Far From Home here.

Words by Louis Rowland