‘Shadows’ is the fourth single from Conscious Route and Supermann on da beat’s forthcoming collaborative album of the same name. The track opens with a deft scratch intro from Jabbathakut, who cuts in vocal samples from both sides of the Atlantic as tension builds with an atmospheric loop. Dropping into a classic boom-bap break, Supermann on da beat shows his skills and keeps things interesting with the production as he adds dub tinges and other accents, while dropping the beat in and out of the mix. This subtly shifting sound-bed makes sure the head-nodding production doesn’t get repetitive, yet still provides a solid spine for an MC to deliver. As such, Conscious Route obliges, showing the dynamism that has seen the pair decide to build on their past work to create a full album together.
The first verse sees Conscious Route talk on his life as an MC - taking to the stage and trying to bring some positivity through his raps. However, the chorus shows a darker edge, as he rhymes, “(shadows) in my life, do my best to stay blessed, things from my past make troubles manifest.” With the second verse Conscious Route brings the contrast between how he is working to be a better person and the past traumas that still haunt his present. He opens up with a personal rhyme as, once again, he is not afraid to bear his soul to the listener. Showing that there is real life behind the on-stage MC, Conscious Route also admits how music has helped him gain a new focus and meaning in expressing his past as a message to others.
With wordplay thick with metaphors and similes, along with high quality original production, this track shows the synergy between Supermann on da beat and Conscious Route, building anticipation for the full-length ‘Shadows’ LP, which is due out on digital and vinyl formats on 27th June 2025.
Produced by Supermann on da beat Mixed by Mackenzie Mastered by Forest DLG @ KMJ45 Studio Lyrics by Conscious Route Artwork by Jon Thompson Editorial by Tom Clover Released by True Hold Records 2025 all rights reserved
