The Alchemist and Oh No, the dynamic duo known as Gangrene, have made a triumphant return with their fourth full-length album, ‘Infinite Smash Bros.’ After a nine-year hiatus, the pair have picked up right where they left off, delivering a cohesive and uncompromising collection of experimental hip-hop tracks.
Gangrene’s signature sound is characterized by busy instrumentation, abrasive beats, and aggressive, violent lyrics. ‘Infinite Smash Bros.’ showcases this style in its full glory, with tracks like ‘Oxnard Water Torture’ and ‘The Gates of Hell’ creating an unsettling yet captivating listening experience. The album’s 39-minute runtime is filled with bizarre and adventurous beats that are unmistakably Gangrene.
While ‘Infinite Smash Bros.’ may be a challenging listen compared to the duo’s other projects, it is the unpredictability and unconventional style that sets Gangrene apart. The Alchemist and Oh No effortlessly blend their skills as rappers and producers, creating a seamless fusion of their individual talents. Their chemistry is undeniable, as they complement each other’s flows and create new sonic possibilities within their own beats.
Guest features from Evidence, Boldly James, and ANKHLEJOHN add depth to the album, but The Alchemist and Oh No do not rely on outside contributions to carry the project. Their individual skill sets as rappers nearly outshine their own production, proving that their partnership has not dwindled in the slightest.
Despite the passage of time, Gangrene has proven that they are reliable in delivering unorthodox beats and sharp rhymes. ‘Infinite Smash Bros.’ is a testament to their dedication to their unique style and their ability to push the boundaries of hip-hop. It is a dark and cerebral journey that showcases the enduring power of the Gangrene sound.
