Ohio Rapper Copywrite Returns With His Long-Awaited Sequel Project, ‘The High Exhaulted II’
Columbus, Ohio rapper Copywrite has returned with a new album called The High Exhaulted II, the sequel to his 2002 debut The High Exhaulted. Across his prolific discography, the underground veteran has consistently pairs sharply-crafted lyricism with layered, versatile production. On his latest release, he delivers powerful verses with intense, focused delivery atop infectious instrumentals from Mondee, D1, the late great Camu Tao, and more that combine diverse influences and keep it fresh throughout.
The High Exhaulted II beings with the epic, grand “Cold Turkey Leftovers”, which finds Copy delivering commanding verses and flexing his lyrical prowess as he weaves together dynamic rhyme patterns. The production here is expansive and textural, with raw keys, head-nodding percussion and heavy bass. Next, “The Lah” follows with ethereal, mercurial production
featuring surreal guitars and vibrant keyboards. This song finds his verses confident and focused, with sleek lines that draw the listener into this song’s layered sound.
The memorable and engaging “Spoiler Alert/ Have U Cena?” finds him sending shots at wrestler John Cena, who he accuses of stealing his lyrics for Cena’s music. Atop intense production featuring metallic synths and pounding drums, he delivers piercing lines, before a surprise beat
switch takes the energy up even further, as he dissects the situation with Cena through poignant bars. “White Sean Price” provides another project highlight, with warm, layered samples made up of graceful vocals and guitars ringing out atop a gritty drum loop that Copy flows atop with assured ease. The Vordul Mega-assisted “Maintain” is potent and emotive, as it finds the two rappers dissecting societal problems atop wintery, spirited production. Lastly, the LP finishes with “Silence”, a pensive track that contains thought-provoking pianos and textural drums which underscore Copy’s strongly evocative vocal performance.
Released on Man Bites Dog Records, The High Exhaulted II showcases some powerful, well- crafted vocals from Copy, and finds him as sharp as he’s ever been. With potent, thoughtful verses and raw, enticing production, this is an engaging album that combines a variety of sonic influences from hip-hop’s underground into a cohesive, exciting blend.
