PsychoYP teams up with Iyoo cartel boss JeriQ the hustler (known as the evil twin from the East of the former) in this hip-hop-styled EP, “Evil Twin.”

Released on January 26, 2024, this five-track project is definitely a sonic masterpiece. It's a unique fusion of two different flavors of hip-hop from PsychoYP and JeriQ that will make a lasting impact on the Nigerian hip-hop scene. Here, JeriQ fuses his vibrant South East Igbo rap flow, infectious energy, and streetwise storytelling with PsychoYP’s gritty Abuja trap and drill swagger.

Opening with a distinctive bounce in the first track "Disintegrate," Psycho YP sets the tone with the hook, paving the way for JeriQ to weave his articulate lyrics. Both artists immerse themselves in the gritty beat, narrating their hustle and journey to securing their spot in the rap space.

On the second track, a Wizkid sample sets the stage. Borrowing the iconic alarm from Wizkid's 2013 hit "Azonto," this song places glamor, luxury, and lifestyle at its core. The lyrics paint an evocative picture, creating a musical journey infused with splendor and sophistication, providing a sound experience that perfectly captures luxury and extravagance with impeccable flow.

“First Milli,” the third track, celebrates the joy of making your first big money after enduring financial difficulties. The motivational lyrics are fused with steady and prominent drum patterns, throbbing and pulsating baselines, soulful piano chords, and American black church coarse piano chords in the back. The track is also laced with expressive sax tones which weaves melodic phrases to the beat and adds an extra layer of depth. The inclusion of a sample from Notorious B.I.G's 1995 rap hit "Get Money" also enhances the track's hook.

In "Breaking News," the narrative perfectly extends the theme set by Jeriq and Psycho YP, their journey to the top in the rap scene. The track reeks of South Eastern Nigerian flavor, featuring veteran rapper Phyno, who steals the show with a captivating hook. JeriQ introduces his verse with the Igbo adage “Adiroo akwu ofu ebe ekili mmuonwu,' portraying the rap industry as a dynamic masquerade, with JeriQ and PsychoYP as evolving spectators striving to make their mark. YP confidently reinforces the triumph-over-adversity narrative.

Sharing its name with the EP, the final track 'Evil Twin,' sums up their rise, narrating a story of resilience, relentless grind, success, and the shift in their lifestyle after their ascent. It mirrors the similarity in their journey to the top of the game, highlighting the shared struggles and triumphs that shaped their ascent in the game.

Finally, the ‘Evil Twin’ EP generally talks about the essence of their hustle. The artists use their verses to address the trials they have faced, the obstacles they overcame, and the relentless spirit that has always pushed them to do more. The title itself mirrors the parallel journey, highlighting the shared challenges and victories that shaped their rise to the top of the game.

This is the cover art for "Evil Twin" a joint EP by the talented individual artists, JeriQ and PschoYP

PsychoYP and JeriQ the hustler: Evil Twin EP review - tale of shared challenges and victories

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