Offie Mag

Stacy N.K.R. and oakland release smooth fm, the culmination of a collaboration first sparked in the 1Xtra studios. Drawing on conversations about modern relationships, it explores toxicity, self-worth, and the grey areas of situationships.

I’ve already spoken about how much of a fan I am of the lead single ‘cosmetic’, which takes mellow grime and slows the vibe and turning it into something fresh. The follow-up ‘your eyes’ feels more conventional, built on Rhodes jazz chords, a sax solo, and drill-inspired drums. It’s the kind of sound you’d expect to hear on Balamii cyphers, which may explain its streaming success. Stacy’s bars are the highlight here, as well as on ‘love is real’, while oakland’s production sits at its safest.

The project kicks up a gear on the last two tracks. The chopped piano sample on ‘relapse’ is tasteful and leaves space for the Kennington MC to shine. Closer ‘goodnight’ is the most polished cut, layering synth lines with a hook built on samples that pull against each other. It’s one of the few moments where you feel real contrast.

That’s what makes mellow grime easy to sit with. Complimentary sounds paired with sharp lyricism. It softens the abrasiveness of the genre’s roots. It might not be made for the rave, but it will find a home almost anywhere else.

Listen to smooth fm here.

Words by Louis Rowland.