Big Homie Wes just dropped a masterclass in raw, back-to-basics hip-hop with his new epic, Av Brookhaven. Stripping away the excess of modern studio production, Wes wrote, produced, and recorded the entire sonic epic in an intense five-day blitz right in the heart of Montreal, Canada.
Here is a deep dive into the making of the project, the gear behind the sound, and a track-by-track breakdown.
Tracklist Breakdown
The epic opens with an absolute statement piece. Canadian artist Shhvelly anchors the track with an infectious chorus before Big Homie Wes sets the tone with the first verse. Veteran emcee 7 Thirty holds down the second verse, cementing the track's heavy lyrical weight.
2. "Get it Done"
Flowing seamlessly from the opener, this track delivers a heavy dose of nostalgia. Driven by production inspired by early-2000s Aftermath Entertainment, it strikes a perfect balance between a "classic" boom-bap era and a fresh, modern perspective.
3. "Hustler Motivation"
The epic's central pillar and only standalone single. Big Homie Wes takes the spotlight entirely on his own here, delivering a high-energy anthem tailored for anyone on the daily grind.
4. "Serotonin" (feat. K-Rym Muzishunn)
An adventurous, rhythmic shift. This track serves up a vibrant Afro-fusion hip-hop blend. K-Rym Muzishunn commands the chorus with melodic dancing lines that weave perfectly around Wes's sharp verses.
5. "Take Your Time" (feat. Shhvelly)
Shhvelly returns to the main stage to lend a soulful touch, handling both the chorus and the first verse. Big Homie Wes steps in on verse two to lock in the track's smooth, patient vibe.
6. "Represent" (feat. CY Southwest)
The epic reaches a theatrical, cinematic conclusion. Cellist Caleb Davis joins bassist Samuel Guihan to build a grand acoustic landscape. Renowned Montreal rapper CY Southwest follows Wes's lead, delivering a true-to-roots hip-hop performance that ties the whole concept together.
The Features
Big Homie Wes taps in with, Shhvelly, 7 Thirty, K-Rym Muzishunn, CY Southwest, Guest Ad Libs, Samuel Guihan on bass for every track. Caleb Davis adds cello on the final track.
