Lo Village is Not in Maryland Anymore on New Rap/R&B Album “Yellow Brick Road”

After gaining some traction in 2021 with the release of their EP Lost In America, Maryland-based R&B/Rap group Lo Village is formally reintroducing themselves on their third album, Yellow Brick Road. Initially beginning as a rap duo between members Kane Tabiri and Charles Tyler, the trio had to go on a hiatus when member and Kane’s sister Ama was diagnosed with MS. Now, more than ever, all three’s talents are at the forefront, sharing equal time in the spotlight and coming together as a fully grown group without any artistic limitations.

On most of the album’s tracks, Lo Village takes on a laidback and stripped-down approach that works to showcase what each member brings to the table. “Dirty Mac” finds Ama doing most of the heavy lifting, bringing a passionate yet easygoing vibe while Kane and Tyler trade introspective verses. Support from the shaker percussion and electronic tempo position the three in a place of calm, never clashing against each other stylistically.

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Similarly, the title track, “Yellow Brick Road,” features some of the best lyricism on the album from both Kane and Tyler. The two rap with crystal clear sincerity, speaking their truths and detailing what life has been like for Lo Village and the people around them. Just for its importance alone as the centerpiece, the song is among the highlights thanks to the vivid storytelling.

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With an accompanying video, “Cudi” stands as Yellow Brick Road’s most pop-leaning single, trading long-form rap verses for “na na na” melodies and an impressive vocal performance from Ama. In the visual, the three wear outfits fitting for an old-school doo-wop group as the video moves through the decades and improves in quality. It might seem like a far-removed concept for an unquestionably modern song in production. But the way vibrant colors slowly come into focus is similar to how the song itself brings vibrance onto the album, serving as an inspired switch-up and reimagining of what a pop song could be.

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There are sure to be some noticeable resemblances between Lo Village and rap groups of the 90s, such as The Fugees and Camp Lo, the latter of whom being where they draw their name from. But those connect-the-dot thoughts dissipate as the synergy between one another brings the album together. “‘Yellow Brick Road’ is the culmination of a two-year hiatus and the catalyst that forced us to look within rather than searching for external validation and acceptance,” said Lo Village. The final product couldn’t be more self-evident of that aim, with all three seemingly drawing from themselves and creating their best work so far.

Words: David Sosa

Yellow Brick Road by Lo Village is out on all streaming services. For more on new music and live performances, follow them on Instagram and Facebook.