This is the first time I’ve heard of Oakland-based artist Mellay, so I had to do a bit of research (h/t Glasse Factory) on the Hawaii-raised, Bay Area-residing Asian-American artist. He’s been known for walking the lines between contemporary sounds and mental health bars, among other real-life topics. His latest with collaborator vtizzel, “Outliers,” keeps that same honest energy throughout it.

Over a somewhat menacing beat, the duo trade bars about mental health awareness, trying to exceed expectations, battling stereotypes and just being true to oneself. A common theme in many of the tracks I’ve featured this week, it’s always important to remain true to your truths–as long as they’re not malicious to others. I like the beat on this one as well, as it’s contemporary and doesn’t bend–just like the lyrics on the song. If you’re in the mood for honest hip-hop that’s real, but also still a bop (which this one definitely is), check it out, support dope music in all its forms and stay on the lookout for more music from Mellay.