Houston rap scene is often subject to be known as the syrup sippin’, candy paint drippin’, swingin’, swangin’, and bangin’ city. If your mouth isn’t filled with diamonds and jewels, some are likely to not even notice you. But one new up and coming rapper is breaking this stereotype.
After taking some time off from music, Switch Martinez, is back in his “sanctuary,” his place of comfort and safety, and is setting a new example for the cities sound. With his latest EP aptly titled, Sanctuary, Switch lays down some his best work yet.
Amongst his hard-hitting bars and motivational lyrics amplified his determining voice, Switch also utilizes his vocal ability to blissfully blend the hooks into his songs. The crisp production almost makes it seem like he’s sitting next to you rapping, as his voice is layered flawlessly over the track, something not often seen in the peak of the mumble rap era.
Throughout the project Switch touches on his personal life as well as his work ethic and the motivation that keep him going. On songs like “No Days Off” and “No Bodies Safe” he attacks the aggressive beats with his constantly changing flow and fast-paced delivery. Switch’s skill seems to be on another level as he can continuously deliver his rapid lyrics while immediately transitioning into a more modest and “choppy” style of flow.
Although the hard-hitting tracks are sure to get the most plays, his slower, more down to earth tracks such as “Elevated” and “Living Free” are the true standout songs. Switch’s lyrical content will be what separates him from the rest. The refreshing concepts and choices of display material are what some of Houston’s best artist are missing. Realism and relatability are something that Switch doesn’t toy with. There is no over-boasting, no exaggeration of character, what you see and hear is what you get, and that is something we don’t see enough.
With Houston’s Hispanic rap artists on the rise, Switch Martinez is definitely a name to keep an eye out for. His nonchalant attitude and perception is something the industry and scene need to level out the gun-toting gangsterisms that is around every corner. Sometimes it’s best to just listen to some motivational music while you roll up and get ready for what’s next to come and Switch delivers that perfectly.
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