The road to success may be long and arduous, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be enjoyed. Such is a driving point for The Kid Daytona who mixes blood, sweat, and tears with all the finer things in life on his latest release, The Interlude II.
The intersection of luxury and struggle has been present throughout Daytona’s career, and is a defining characteristic for the Bronx born emcee. It is most distinctive in his rhyme style and delivery, which comes off as casual and nonchalant, yet is finely detailed and shaped by the emcee’s Bronx upbringing. Daytona’s flow almost makes it appear too easy, giving listeners images of him recording while reclining, women serving him grapes and offering more Makers Mark. But the ride’s not been incredibly easy for Daytona, as he reminds us on the mixtape’s opening track, “manicured nails, but my palm’s in the trenches.” He revisits that dichotomy again on “Camelot” featuring Tony Williams, “I kind of need the negativity to give my narratives imagery,” he explains.
Whether he’s posted on a beach with Action Bronson (“Ivory Coast Crime Scene”), or giving an audio tour of The Bronx (“Low”), Daytona is at home on The Interlude II. Musically, he shines over the soulful and Caribbean infused production of 6th Sense, Harry Fraud, Million $ Mano, and Statik Sleketah. And while it’s title maybe The Interlude, this is no throw away release, or anything to skip over. Like the best vacation spots, this album is one you will want to revisit for years to come.
“Done Done It” (prod. by 6th Sense)
[audio:http://rubyhornet.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/07-Done-Done-It.mp3|titles=The Kid Daytona: “Done Done It”]“Low” (prod. by Harry Fraud)
[audio:http://rubyhornet.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/04-LOW.mp3|titles=The Kid Daytona: “Low”]“Never Let Go” (prod. by Million $ Mano)
[audio:http://rubyhornet.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/09-Never-Let-Go.mp3|titles=The Kid Daytona: “Never Let Go”]