The End: A Mixtape by AJ Vibes is a self-reflective, inspirational body of work that emphasizes looking within and truly believing yourself, but it also looks at the harshness of the world around us. To say I was hooked from the first listen is an understatement. Along with Daniel Apter-Prodger and Jack Miller, the trio has created a smooth yet strong mixtape.
California native AJ Vibes is a producer, engineer, and artist whose blend of Jazz, Neo-soul, Hip Hop, and RnB create a harmonious sound within his work. Along with his musical talents, AJ Vibes is also the founder of a new Black-Owned Artist Community called Sounds From Within. The mission of this organization is to reimagine authentic connections by emphasizing the human within the art.
One track that really hit home was “LA Sunset”. The passing of a loved one is difficult. So, too, is the reality that you must continue to grow without them. There are moments where AJ Vibes loops “Driving down the 405 / Here I am once again / Driving down the 405” above the chorus. Driving is therapeutic. Down a stretch of nothingness, this sort of escape from reality allows us to reflect on things we may not have had the chance to before. In this instance, AJ Vibes reflects on his loss and reassures himself that the person will “always have [his] back”.
The harmonies in each track felt like I was in a church; a “choir” enriching the words of the artist. When listening to this mixtape for the first time I highly recommend listening in a quiet room if you can. Make yourself comfortable and prepare for the journey – it’s all uphill from here.
AJ Vibes
