RXKNephew and Harry Fraud’s Mafia Odyssey in ‘LIFE AFTER NEPH’

Step into the booth with RXKNephew, and all rules are tossed aside. The Rochester rapper is known for his offbeat non-sequiturs, unpredictable punch-ins, and meme-worthy lines that flood social media with each release. RXKNephew’s music, where ex-girlfriends, former plugs, and memories of dope fiends find a place, is both exhilarating and refreshingly unapologetic. In his latest project, “LIFE AFTER NEPH,” RXKNephew collaborates with the legendary Harry Fraud to deliver an 11-track mafioso odyssey. Known for his work with the Coke Boys and influenced by Max B, Nephew’s collaboration with Fraud promises a match made in heaven. While Nephew operates like a rap mercenary, following the money wherever it leads, “LIFE AFTER NEPH” stands out with a natural chemistry between the rapper and the producer. Fraud’s cinematic and glossy production style adds a layer of sophistication, making Nephew’s verses feel like part of the Godfather II soundtrack. Unlike Nephew’s previous creative endeavors, this project exhibits a newfound focus and synergy with Harry Fraud. The rapper, a chameleon in the rap game, effortlessly adapts to Fraud’s beats, ranging from boom-bap to vintage ATL trap.

“LIFE AFTER NEPH” opens with “Pebble Beach,” where Neph celebrates his success, reflecting on the contrast between his aunt’s hard days and his current life adorned with Gucci frames. “Authority Figure” follows, blending luxury with a sly depiction of a successful D-Boy, reminiscent of Valee/Fraud collaborations. The synergy between Nephew and Rx Papi shines on “RX INSTRUCTIONS,” showcasing Nephew’s artistry with ample negative space for his personality to shine. While Fraud’s production can sometimes restrict Nephew’s wild style, this track allows his delivery to be zany and off-the-wall. Fraud accommodates Nephew’s diverse styles well throughout the album. “Dub 4 U” delves into disco and drug dealing, with funky basslines and quirky synths. On “The Roundtable,” Nephew’s distributor TedBudz surprises with a solid verse, while Nephew adopts a calmer demeanor reminiscent of Pimp C.

However, the insularity of Fraud’s production is a drawback. While it sets a captivating mafia aesthetic, it confines the artists within a fixed setting, limiting moments of innovation. The standout exception is “Top Chef Neph,” where Fraud breaks the mold with a bonkers sample, allowing Nephew’s imagination to run wild—a refreshing departure from the norm. In “LIFE AFTER NEPH,” RXKNephew and Harry Fraud embark on a musical journey that, despite occasional constraints, showcases Nephew’s versatility and Fraud’s polished production. The collaboration offers glimpses of a different sonic palette, proving that sometimes it’s okay to break away from the template and explore new creative horizons.