Queens-bred rapper Apokalips The Archangel is back with a hard-hitting track that resonates deeply with the streets. His new single, “Under Hypnosis,” produced by Skinny Bonez Tha Godfatha, is a raw, authentic expression of urban struggle, perseverance, and hunger for success. On this collaboration, the duo crafts a sonic landscape that reflects the grit and grind of New York City’s underground Hip-Hop scene.
Apokalips The Archangel has long been a fixture in the NYC rap community, known for spitting raw, unfiltered rhymes that speak to the realities of life in the city’s rougher neighborhoods. He’s a voice for those often overlooked, channeling the hunger of the streets into his bars. His style is unmistakably New York, rooted in the tradition of lyrical heavyweights, and his commitment to authenticity sets him apart in the crowded Hip-Hop landscape.
On the production side, Skinny Bonez Tha Godfatha has made a name for himself with his atmospheric beats that are tailor-made for lyricists. His work on “Under Hypnosis” is no different. Skinny Bonez provided Apokalips with a beat that not only complements his gritty flow but also elevates the overall mood of the track, allowing the Queens MC to glide effortlessly over the instrumental.
The title “Under Hypnosis” plays a crucial role in the theme of the track. Apokalips’ lyrics dive into the mental and emotional trappings that come with trying to survive and succeed in an unforgiving environment. The metaphor of being “under hypnosis” suggests a state of being trapped or controlled, which reflects the experiences of many who feel stuck in the cycle of poverty, crime, or other systemic challenges. Yet, even in this hypnotic state, Apokalips keeps his hunger alive, using his music as a form of resistance and expression.
These bars embody the tension between ambition and the forces that seem to hold him back, a recurring theme in his music. By tying the concept of hypnosis into his lyrics, Apokalips paints a vivid picture of the mental battles faced by those navigating life in the slums.
Skinny Bonez Tha Godfatha, a producer with an ear for soulful yet hard-hitting beats, provides the perfect sonic backdrop for Apokalips’ storytelling. His production on “Under Hypnosis” is hypnotic in itself, featuring a haunting melody that loops throughout the track, drawing listeners into the world Apokalips describes. The beat is minimal yet powerful, allowing Apokalips’ lyrics to take center stage while still maintaining a dark, eerie vibe that fits the theme perfectly.
In many ways, Skinny Bonez acts as the architect behind the track’s mood, building a soundscape that pulls listeners deeper into the hypnotic atmosphere Apokalips creates with his words.
As a native New Yorker, Apokalips’ music is steeped in the culture and pride of his city. He famously declares that he’s so New York, he doesn’t rock red socks—a jab at Boston’s iconic Red Sox. This line serves as a nod to his unwavering allegiance to his roots, symbolizing a deeper connection to the city and its gritty, uncompromising spirit.
Apokalips doesn’t just rap for himself—he’s rapping for the underdogs, for those struggling to make it out of the slums, for those “hungry” for something more. His music is a voice for the voiceless, and “Under Hypnosis” is no different.
In a landscape where much of mainstream rap has shifted towards commercial appeal, Apokalips and Skinny Bonez Tha Godfatha are sticking to their roots, creating music that’s authentic and unapologetic. “Under Hypnosis” stands out not only for its lyrical depth but for its commitment to representing the real struggles of everyday people. The single is a refreshing reminder of the power of storytelling in Hip-Hop, where the bars and beats are more than just entertainment—they’re a reflection of real life.
“Under Hypnosis” is a must-listen for fans of underground hip-hop, and it serves as a testament to Apokalips The Archangel’s lyrical prowess and Skinny Bonez Tha Godfatha’s production genius. Together, they’ve crafted a track that’s both thought-provoking and sonically captivating. Whether you’re a fan of gritty New York hip-hop or just looking for authentic storytelling in rap, “Under Hypnosis” is a track that deserves a spot on your playlist.
