AJA and Shilow | ‘Nail In The Coffin’ EP
AJA and Shilow’s newly released album, Nail In The Coffin deliberately sneers at those who feel the need to put their two cents in. Referencing to it’s theme, Nail In The Coffin is Halloween oriented. Through dark organ chords, a daunting base, unapologetic notions, quick-witted analogies, direct rhymes and punchlines — AJA and Shilow leave the opinionated shaking in their boots. Which, in turn, align with what they were going for.
Rather than going ghost, Nail In The Coffin settles on re-birth and continuous growth. In terms of the albums purpose, both hope to end past perceptions. Throughout Nail In The Coffin, AJA and Shilow stay in their bag with no shame. To conclude, Nail In The Coffin is “a college thesis of a horror film.” From beginning to end, AJA and Shiloh demonize the wicked in hopes that they’ll bite their tongues moving forward. Honestly speaking, AJA and Shilow went hardcore.
Sweeping negative comments under the rug, “The Purge” lets AJA and Shilow go bar-for-bar over a EDM-trap beat. Rather than living vicariously through others, both take destiny into their own hands and clap-back with a fresh, care-free attitude. Mentioned by AJA, his line “Using the MAC no brush or broom…” speaks about his transition from drag to rapping. And while others agree to disagree about his career change, AJA is certain that rapping is his true calling. Equally important, the two emcee’s cadence puts speculations to rest. To put it further, I advice you to stay woke. “The Purge” is just a snippet of whats to come.
“Lost” comes in as a forewarning against the danger that lies ahead. Through a synth-wave metal sound, both go at it with loud, aggressive screams, clever ties, and a quick-paced flow, which insist that “…you can’t leave the way you left.” The phrases from this song shouldn’t be overlooked. Instead, one should take into account that every actions comes with a consequence. “‘Lost” is really about self-confliction.” AJA adds.
In particular, “Lost” was written after a meltdown while overseas. At one point, mental health is referenced in the song as well. “Harsh comments online hurt and those who post them often don’t realize.” To put his feelings more into words, AJA uses dark metaphors like ‘being a scarecrow’ so others can really understand. Very often, both questioned if people were judging them based off their appearance or characteristics. Now, they realize it only matters what they think of theirselves. “Lost” is said to be sonically different than the rest.
“Mama Chola” is all about facing the person who looks back in the mirror. Through the song’s base, hyperactive synth and cut-throat rhymes, AJA and Shilow assure the wicked that they’ll reep what they sow. Because karma is universal after all. Still, the commentary doesn’t end there. To add, AJA and Shilow those who clout chase also. Some verses were about people who made fun of their beliefs, culture etc. But funnily enough, the same ones had a change of heart once that certain thing trended. Equally important, the two feature Amira Wang, who in turn keeps the same energy through an assertive ‘tude.
In “Body Count” Shilow takes lead from start to end. Essentially “Body Count” is nothing but motivational. But really, Shilow wrote this track in reference to Jason Voorhees, the main character from Friday The 13th. Aside from this, “Body Count” blends in influences from hip-hop, rock and country. Together with an eager howl, catchy hook, electric guitar riff and bouncy tempo — Shilow steps out of his comfort zone and kicks his feet up. Through his own positivity, Shilow interjects that he’ll shine on, proving that every cloud has a silver lining.
Now “Haunted Haus” brings on the spook. Influenced by pop elements, this track serves as their little funhouse song. In the words of AJA and Shilow, “Haunted Haus” is more Halloween-oriented. To further support this statement, the soundscape drags in dark organ riffs and a harmonic singer named Katie Jones who uses a rise-and-fall pattern. Additionally, AJA and Shilow strike fear, just like the occurring holiday. In fun references and straight-forward rhymes, both prove that they didn’t come to play. One line that struck out the most to me was AJA’s Pennywiser reference. Here, he says “Being a clown on the street, doesn’t make you street wise.” and “They call you Pennywise cause you cheaper than a nickel.” Essentially, “Haunted Haus” gives a middle finger to arrogance.
In his feelings, no Drake, “Paranoia” comes as a security blanket for those who deal with anxiety. AJA made this song in particular to attack the critics, but “Paranoia” can be interpreted in many ways. Sonically, this track reveals what runs through the mind of one who’s under pressure. Together with quick bars and frantic 808’s, AJA kicks it up a notch through a cadence that fades in and out. But adding onto the message behind “Paranoia,” AJA wants listeners to know that it’s ok to feel. Over a bouncy piano progression, AJA uses many punchlines and analogies. Thus far, my favorite tie is when AJA shows that he’s more action than words, “When I pull up, blue face like Grover.” Another notable line is one of AJA’s favorites, “Finger on frostbite, nah that’s a mood ring.”
Last but not least, “Eulogy” serves as a departure from AJA and Shilow’s past self. Since they’re already at their metaphorical cemetery in this track, AJA picks at a lot of bones, one being that often, he’d get picked on for not being “dark enough.” But that’s the least of AJA’s worries now, because he knows his worth. Embracing his skin and all, he compares himself to a luxurious car in this metaphor “Pineapple 6, yellow leather with the red rugs.” Likewise, Shiloh speaks on the doubtful comments he’s heard about his career from loved ones and spectators. Like a eel, everything Shiloh says is shocking. And with emotionally-captivating words, its hard to not feel how he did. Beat wise, “Eulogy” uses a dark, somber, trap beat which executes the most in organ progressions. To put it further, both added these flairs because death is a big youthinism for change. In a way, “Eulogy” accepts the things they have no control over. Now it’s time for them to take ownership of their own destinies.
If you haven’t, steam Nails In The Coffin here. Available on all platforms.
