ElevtrTrax – Oddisee – No Reservations
Sudanese-American hip hop artist Oddisee’s EP, “AlWasta,” takes its title from the Arabic colloquial term used to mean “the plug.” The term “wasta” comes from the Arabic word “wasat,” meaning “middle” or “middleman,” and describes a member of the community who acts as a connector using their wealth of social currency. Understanding the value of social currency & how to use it is what Amir Elkhalifa aka Oddisee focused on as the primary inspiration for his writings. The track “No Reservations” is the best example of nuanced experiences, a deep understanding of social justice, and skill coming together. AlWasta has made Oddisee our years best emcee list without a doubt, his lyrical flow is instrumental, percussive, and capable of delivering words like a boxer delivers punches: they hit you before you even see them coming.