Atlanta rap duo EarthGang have carved out a sonically unique niche for themselves within the rap genre, which elevates them to the status of underground legends. With nearly 3.5 million monthly Spotify listeners, the duo have solidified their catalogue with complex genre-blending bangers, making them one of the most fascinating rap acts currently working. The pair, who are signed to J. Cole's Dreamville label alongside frequent collaborators such as JID, Bas, and Ari Lennox, have been releasing a series of EPs under the banner EarthGang vs. The Algorithm, with their latest effort Robophobia showcasing the encroaching influences of artificial intelligence on art and music. Robophobia offers yet another sonic curveball for fans of the eccentric group, with funk and trap influences blending the group's sound into a cornucopia of high-intensity jams.

EarthGang's Robophobia lends itself to a number of fascinating sounds. This is evident right from the beginning, as the first song "Blacklight" offers a smooth funk tune which entices and sucks listeners into the immersive world of the growing EarthGang Vs. The Algorithm narrative. "Blacklight" served as the lead single for the tape, initially released in November 2023. Although already available to the public, the song takes on a new significance when considered within the broader context of Robophobia, highlighting human error and imperfection in an era increasingly dominated by digital creation and auto-tuned vocal passages.

The following track, "Put In Work" opens with a few jazzy piano thrusts before launching into a thumping banger with alternative vocalist Tommy Newport featured on the hook. The track possesses a versatile quality, suitable for both a lively nightclub atmosphere and a relaxed smoke session at home. However, its infectious basslines and pulsating percussion may compel you to involuntarily leap from your seat and bust out a few dance moves.

While both Olu and WowGr8 are recognized for their versatility in music, Olu has developed a reputation for leading the melodic and note-carrying aspects of most EarthGang tracks, while WowGr8 often employs lyrical double entendres that appeal to die-hard hip-hop enthusiasts. This dynamic is evident on some Robophobia tracks, such as "Put In Work," but shifts on songs like "Osmosis," where WowGr8's heavenly vocal arrangements take center stage while Olu raps like the rent is due.

As the project's closing track, "Perfect Fantasy" offers powerful sample-heavy production, with a concluding through-line about celebrating life's blessings. The track also showcases the best guest feature on the effort, with a lively performance from West Coast legend Snoop Dogg. The 52-year-old MC has delivered a few underwhelming features in recent years, though the "Murder Was The Case" rapper knew to bring his A-game when working with one of the most talented and creative duos active today.

Due to the nature of EarthGang's ever-changing sound and style, Robophobia has as much potential to be your favorite project from the duo as it does to be your least favorite. Fans of the group will surely appreciate the bold new direction the EP takes, though some more lyrically inclined listeners may prefer EarthGang's earlier work. At the end of the day, the EP accomplishes its stated goals, to make contemplative genre-blending music which furthers the narrative of EarthGang vs. the Algorithm, and truly makes the listener think about the state of art and music in a digital landscape.

About The Author

TeeJay Small is a professional humorist, pop culture columnist, and an avid enjoyer of all things hip hop. When he's not compiling dozens of monologue-style jokes about the most absurd news headlines, or furiously scribbling rewrites for his television pilot, you can find him carefully analyzing the lyrics to the latest Griselda or Dreamville releases, or digging in the crates to find the hottest up-and-coming rappers. After receiving his bachelor's degree in English/Communications from UMASS Boston, TeeJay set out on a journey to travel the world and develop a culturally diverse media career. He has been personally assured by both members of EARTHGANG that he is, in fact, part of the culture.

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