Nova Soprano | ‘8-4-8’ Review
Nova Soprano is one of New Jersey’s top-tier lyricists who redefine the “woke” era of hip-hop with passionate deliveries, thought-provoking rhymes, and dynamic beats. Additionally, Soprano’s production adds an appeasing twist to timeless R&B and hip-hop samples. His moniker was given to him by his cousin. “Nova” is short for Supernova, which means an explosion of a star, and “Soprano” was inspired by New Jersey’s very own, Tony Soprano (who played the late James Gandolfini). In singles, he covers many topics like the government’s exploitation, love (and lust), pushing weight, staying dedicated, being a real one, staying ten toes down, and upholding a hustle. He adds, “I’m not only the voice of the streets but a loyal student and contributor of Hip-Hop. Since discovering my unique lyrical ability, I have always kept the promise to stay true to the game through my raw and uncut verbal ability.” His latest tape 8-4-8 is an embodiment of this and so much more. Not only is the album a refreshing listen due to Nova’s many approaches on nostalgic beats, but it also makes one think about what they’re putting out into the world. Carrying 12 tracks, 8-4-8 provides listeners with snippets of commentary, comedy scenes, and movie scenes at the beginning of some songs. Likewise, the album gives listeners insight into who Nova is. Between lyrics, 8-4-8 explores his resilience, street and book smarts, ambition, realness, and mindstate moving forward.
“The album is the transition of Alphayaya Barrie from Yung Pago to Young Goldie to Fulani Blue Eyes when added together equal Nova Soprano,” he says “8-4-8 takes you through the emotions of a hustla transitioning to a Boss searching for a way out but trapped by the streets.” To create this amazing musical piece, Nova says it took three years of determination to create a legacy. “Over 60 songs recorded, long days and nights locked in Purple Penthouse with one of the best engineers, P. Carrera, and a lot of classic collaborations, with some not cutting it.” Nova adds before saying, “8-4-8 brought the best out of me from a glimpse of my everyday life. The album shows me rapping with precision on “Fulani Blue Eyes” with assistance from the Queen, Xani, and lyrically sparring with 2 of the many top talents in Jersey, Fame Gillette, and Nata. I also exposed my soul on “Nobody Knows,” which was accompanied by the angelic voice of Leslie McCoy. I even stepped out of my comfort zone and created a masterpiece with the multi-talented Clicquot Geno or gave one the harsh reality of R.I.C.O. with Detroit’s own Indigo Jema. Combine that with production from M-EZ Beats, Cory Orlando, Tribe Vegas, Blackrose, and Abdul G, and the fans are in for one hell of an experience.”
Moving forward, Nova will be doing more work with Interstate Runnaz. “Xani is going to flip the industry on its head with her highly anticipated debut E.P., The Interview (which I am incredibly excited for). After Xani, Interstate Runna’s in-house producer, Blackrose, will be releasing his album (more details will be forthcoming). The rest of the team is in the studio on grind mode with Fynesse, J-45, Turtle, and L.A.M.E. putting together their projects.” he says.
His advice to those constructing their first album is to take your time. “In the words of my right-hand, Don Chico, “When you think you’re done, you’re not done.” Think outside the box and never be afraid to be who you are. Take time to find your voice, find what demographic you are catering to, crack the door slightly open, and let God do the rest.” He also suggests others to have a team that supports them and never let fear get in the way of trying new ideas.
Standout tracks on 8-4-8 include “8-4-8,” “Moments,” “Top Billin,” “Do 4 Luv,” and “Fulani Blue Eyes.”
“Do 4 Luv” uses a feel-good 90’s Notorious B.I.G-esque and R&B-like beat that carries enough bounce to get the whole block jumping. On the song, Nova expresses how he’s head over heels for a 5’8 caramel beauty with a Colgate smile. Afterward, he gets into how he approached her. Nova raps, “My heart pacing while my mind racin’, thinking of the perfect scheme, but I ain’t chasin’. So start with the basics, what’s your name, how you doin?” Skip the nonsense; you’re the one I’m pursuing.” Next, the “8-4-8” spitter begins listing all of her pros, going so far as to say that she’s got his undivided attention and another can’t have it because it’s merely impossible. Even his mother approves of her! As the song moves forward, Nova tells all about their past and upcoming ventures. With cute nicknames, he also says that she’s his other half. In summary, Soprano adds, “Over my baby, shit could get drastic. Fight for that love right, like a yellow jacket.” Before “Do 4 Luv” closes, Nova lets it be known that her love is essential. “My favorite song off this project has to be “Do 4 Luv” because it’s not a typical record you’d hear from Nova Soprano, and second, there’s a story behind it which the song paints the picture to,” Nova adds.
Sounding like it came straight out of a video game, the beat in “Fulani Blue Eyes” carries an oscillating 8-bit recording, sporadic hi-hats, snares, and a booming bass. While Xani uses her signature cadence and infectious energy on the chorus, Nova approaches the beat with a bouncy, swift flow, and a sing-song one to address those who try to downplay his “boss with seniority” status. He also lists commodities that back up what he’s speaking on like his ice and gats. But, no worries, the firearm is strictly for those who flap too much at the gums. Deeper into the song, Nova briefly pays homage to the late Nipsey Hussle. Then, he goes to follow the saying, “we are not the same.” Nova raps, “You car chasing fame like a wacko/A slip of the tongue gets you wacked though, An automatic clip your outro/So friendly advice keep your mouth closed.” Before “Fulani Blue Eyes” ends, Nova unveils that he’s always on his P’s and Q’s. If someone in his space is close to him or someone he knows, Nova will make sure they are okay. Still, that doesn’t necessarily mean he’s a sucker. Like the late Tupac Shakur said once, “I ain’t a killer but don’t push me.” His favorite verse comes from this song too, “See I’m a boss with seniority, you n****s is low on the totem pole/Dusse, Chiroc (Dusse, Chiroc), Belaire or the Spade (Belaire or the spade), avión tequila (avión tequila) I only drink black owned/You Smokin on homegrown b***h please we smokin on marathon/That’s word to the great Nip excuse the legendary Great Nip.”
Sampling Wutang’s “C.R.E.A.M,” except with more massive bass and an uptempo, “Top Billin” sees Nova and Nata go bar for bar about their money-oriented mindset. By any means necessary, they get loot. Rather than focus on other individuals, they put their time into getting checks and “moving work like the Carter.” Still, not everyone is a fan of this trait. Some specific individuals don’t like seeing the two win, but they’re going to shine regardless. Even so, they’ll handle the problem with actions rather than words. One notable line comes from Nata when she raps, “If money becomes a hazard, baby call me the Duke/I’m built for rodeo, you’re still strapping your boots.” Further into “Top Billin,” they unveil how they get ahead of the cash race. Amid the song, both showcase a no-nonsense cadence and scathing bars. They also carry out witty punchlines and metaphors. “Top Billin was a bar session between Yung Pago and The Sweetheart of Rap. The chemistry between us on a beat can be compared to that of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers on screen a perfect combination.” Nova adds.
On “8-4-8,” Nova starts the track with a clip of Seton Hall’s basketball star, Myles Powell going in-depth about what he hopes to do for the future generation. “I’m just setting a path for the next Jersey kid who just wants to stay home and follow their dreams,” he adds. Next, Nova raps and goes into his stellar qualities as both an artist and boss man. When it comes to his gift of gab, he has no assistance from ghostwriters. Likewise, Nova mentions what happens when he’s double-crossed. Rest assured, his status in the Garden State has garnered him hittas that’ll help him at all costs. The numbers 8-4-8 seem to stand for his area of residency. Because he’s pushed most of the weight, Nova is considered to be at the top of the hierarchy. All he asks for is peace of mind and for others to know the “no snitch” code. If they fail to follow through, someone from the area will make them pay for their actions. “8-4-8” uses a combative DMX-type beat. From start to end, Nova displays a golden slate of lyricism.
If you haven’t already, check out 8-4-8 by Nova Soprano below: