J’Moris, the Texas-born MC and poet from Hillsboro, returns with Toxic Lovespell, an album that is equal parts diary and Southern hip-hop clinic. The 11-track album is a gritty exploration of love and heartbreak.
From the first few seconds of “Therapeutic Release,” the therapist’s voice reminds us to “relax and tell me what’s on your mind.” With Toxic Lovespell, J’Moris shares his experience, and it’s reflective and uncompromisingly honest.
The standout tracks from the album, including “She Knows” and “Good Guys Finish Last“, demonstrate J’Moris‘s ability to craft raw and true tales. “She Knows” is an after-dark release of vulnerability, while “Good Guys Finish Last” delves into heartbreak of betrayal in jazzy, atmospheric orchestration.
He needs to strip his struggles and triumphs. Growing up in a community ravaged by the crack epidemic, he’s no stranger to struggle. His older brother, Crunch, played a pivotal role in keeping him out of the streets and on music. Those experiences are the basis of his creative work.
Supamario Beatz-directed production is a perfect match for the J’Moris style. From the SFM trap to the 90s Sitcom retro, the beats provide an active platform for J’Moris’s storytelling. His singing is equally versatile, shifting from boasting to exposure seamlessly.
J’Moris has shown us that he’s not only a rapper; he’s a poet, a survivor, and a voice for those who’ve shared similar journeys. This album is a testament that it is our flaws that make us human and that’s where beauty is found.