“LP!” by JPEGMAFIA

JPEGMAFIA brings something new to hip hop

By: Nikhil Kumaran

An eclectic experience of what rap can be, Barrington DeVaughn Hendricks, known as JPEGMAFIA, brings us his fourth album, “LP!” The New York native is known for his untraditional sampling and skull-shaking instrumentals, giving our brains the scratch that we’ve been searching for.

Born in Flatbush, Brooklyn, Hendricks became interested in music at age 15. Kanye West, MF DOOM, and Radiohead influenced his sampling and producing style. In 2015, he moved to Baltimore, began using the name “JPEGMAFIA,” and began his career in the underground scene.

A breath of fresh air in the hip hop community, Hendricks isn’t afraid to have fun with his music. His exciting vocals blend amazingly well with his immersive and electric beats, creating that JPEG sound that his fans love. With exciting synth-based music and an intense rap style, he delivers a whole new listening experience. 

In 18 tracks, “LP!” gives us a diverse mix of Hendricks’ creative ability. The bubbly and energetic synths of “TRUST!” are a great way to open such a stimulating album. “WHAT KIND OF RAPPIN’ IS THIS?” and “OG!” take a more traditional boom-bap flow that centers the listener into his more relaxed side.

“LP!” is Hendricks telling us what he’s about and having fun with his music. His versatility and creative range are really showcased in this album. It is filled with a variety of emotions, including anger and happiness. This whirlwind of mayhem is what draws listeners into the enigma known as JPEGMAFIA.