Kari Faux is back, and she’s bringing her Southern roots to the forefront with her latest album, “Real Bitches Don’t Die.” After spending time in LA, experimenting with her artistry, she felt the pull to return to her home in Houston, where she put together what she believes is her best work yet.
This album is not just about making music; it’s a heartfelt tribute to the people she’s lost, a testament to her resilience in dealing with grief, and a reminder to stay true to her artistic vision despite the pressures of the commercial music industry. And boy, does she deliver!
Kari’s previous album, “Lowkey Superstar,” was a big hit and helped her gain recognition in the independent hip-hop scene. But with “Real Bitches Don’t Die,” she takes things to a whole new level. She even drew inspiration from Kendrick Lamar’s classic “good kid, m.a.a.d. city” and structured the album as a “perfect loop” – a cool nod to Kendrick’s genius.
One thing that sets Kari apart is her raw honesty and unshakable confidence. She’s got a distinct flow, and she’s not afraid to use it to express her emotions. However, she sometimes struggled to match her artistic vision with the right production. But with this album, she found her groove, paying homage to her funky roots and channeling the vibes of iconic Southern rap legends like OutKast and UGK.
The themes on this album are deep and personal. Kari brilliantly captures the emotional rollercoaster of grief, from seeking comfort from her ancestors in the celestial opening track “Real Bitches Don’t Die” to finding moments of pure joy in the lively “Turnin’ Heads.” It’s a journey through her emotions, showing that pain and swagger can go hand in hand.
Another interesting aspect of this album is the story behind it. While working on it, Kari went to Chicago and met the producer Phoelix, and they became more than just musical collaborators. Their connection is felt throughout the album, as it seamlessly blends her love for jazz and funk with her Southern rap influences. Plus, there are some amazing guest features from Big K.R.I.T., Devin The Dude, and the late Gangsta Boo.
“Real Bitches Don’t Die” is not just an album; it’s a statement. Kari fully embraces her identity as a “gangsta bitch that needs forehead kisses,” and she uses her music to say farewell to LA, express herself authentically, and pay homage to the Southern rap culture that shaped her.
It’s clear that Kari Faux is an artist on the rise, and this album showcases her growth and artistic vision. With every track, she proves that she can create avant-garde alternative hip-hop that still resonates with a wide audience. The journey she takes us on is one of introspection, authenticity, and creativity – and it’s a journey worth taking with her.
As Kari continues to evolve and create, we can only imagine what the future holds for this talented artist. But one thing’s for sure – “Real Bitches Don’t Die” is a powerful testament to her artistry and her place in the music world.