For listeners accustomed to pristine audio, the sonic textures of Smith’s latest work might initially feel jarring. However, fans of artists like Earl and MIKE, frequent collaborators who also employ hazy samples and reverb, will find the approach familiar. Smith amplifies these elements, allowing their fuzzed-out quality to define the soundscape. The closest parallels lie in the beat tapes of Knxwledge and Clams Casino, or the atmospheric world of MERCZONE—Smith and Mercury have collaborated on several tracks together—but his mumble rap-influenced vocals also echo the noise rap gaining traction with artists like Che and OsamaSon, prioritizing sonic impact over traditional fidelity.
Throughout the album, Smith’s fluid cadences and repetition create a captivating effect, particularly on more subdued tracks such as “CREMATE” and “NO ACT,” while providing a dynamic counterpoint to harder-edged songs like “LESSONS” and “WALK THE PLANK.” He deliberately varies his vocal delivery from song to song, ensuring that even related loops and rhythms feel distinct—more like family members than identical twins. This attention to detail prevents NAK from becoming monotonous and expands the album’s scope beyond its 32-minute duration.
