Von Alexander seamlessly blends eras with ‘As The World Turns’

Milwaukee hip-hop is often grouped into many different sounds, largely reflecting the regional and geographical barriers that divide the city’s music scene. A few local he artistes are trying to truly push these limits and create something bigger. That’s exactly what von Alexander is doing with his album New. As the World Turns.

An established veteran of the hip-hop scene, Alexander represents the fusion of two distinct eras in the genre. It’s been nearly a decade since he started playing the game, but his lyrical prowess is a post-apocalyptic byproduct of the mixtape era. At the time, emcees were judged more on the strength of their bars than on the mainstream instrumentals that were prevalent at the time. Although he began his career before the age of 20, contemporary hip-hop and trap are still a relentless force in his music, blending youthful confidence with accomplished lyrical skill. . It’s the fusion of styles that makes Von stand out in the crowd.

“We started writing this record in December 2019. We spent most of this spring and summer finalizing the writing process and started recording in July,” says Alexander. “A lot of life has been spent on it. Of course I learn a lot and grow a lot.”

one of the many strengths of As the World TurnsHowever, it is outside Alexander’s scope of responsibility. The high-profile appearances of Lucien Parker and Maddie add more variety to an already impressive production, and give new voices a chance to shine. I decided to.

“I always wanted to do something with Mudy,” said Alexander. “I didn’t know which track would be the best fit for it. It was an idea that came to me long before it happened. The original idea was for this project to sound like a mixtape and not be too polished.” I didn’t give her any direction on what I wanted it to sound like.She sent it back and it fit the project perfectly.”

The World Turns showcases artists who are just beginning to reach their creative peak, crossing styles and skills. It certainly has the potential to enter the conversation for the top album of the year, but it’s only part of von Alexander’s haunting legacy.

Click here to listen As the World Turns