“Stretching” is a song encapsulating what happens when a person is in, as Jim Swim calls it, an “in-between place.” The song, while dreamlike in its approach to figuring out life while in a bit of limbo, also features a variety of bars from Swim. For me, I really enjoyed his ability to craft a story about a journey. I also enjoyed the production and vocals. Things sound beautiful, but they also sound as if someone’s trying to claw out of the abyss they find themselves in. The song feels peaceful, but there’s an undercurrent of unrest as well.

It’s one of those tracks that isn’t exactly straight-up hip-hop. In fact, this song may have been poppier if another beat was used. That siad, it’s one that’ll take hold of your earholes like the most rap rap song. I believe that this is because hip-hop, whether it sounds like this or like Nas’ “The World is Yours,” is the music of people who’ve gone through some things. For me, an artist can’t make real hip-hop without actually experiencing some form of strife. Even if it’s not “I had to hustle to keep the lights on,” struggle is struggle. Check out the track below and remember to support dope music in all its forms.