First of all, I’m always a fan of concept albums and Chicago duo Verbal Kwest’s LOVKWEST is a high-concept project that seemingly talks on two things. First, it speaks on the glorification of violence by our youths and its repercussions. On top of that, it functions as a love letter of sorts to those young Black and Brown people to let them know that they’re still loved and that they still matter–even when police and news reporters reduce them to statistics.

If you asked me what subgenre I’d put this project in, I wouldn’t really have a straight answer–that is, without thinking a bit. That’s mainly because for all its grit and realness, Verbal Kwest still does so in a way that’s meant to be accessible by everyone. So, to put it plainly, it kind of comes off as a mix between Lupe and Lecrae. That is to say that the project is a very lyrical, high-concept piece but also preaches on some spiritual things while still keeping it close to the street sound. Check out the film above and the EP proper below and remember to support dope music in all its forms.