BARE CHAT

Even without the Drake co-sign, Canadian rapper SadBoi already had people’s attention. Her beguiling singles like “Baddies” and “Potential” unsubtly nudged Toronto hip-hop further towards the islands and hinted at an imminent global sound sensation. In line with her pan-Caribbean heritage, BARE CHAT draws upon dancehall, soca and related styles that perfectly suit her shifting moods. Her raps can be cutting and harsh, breathily asserting her dominance on “Slide” and the scorching drill hybrid “Vex”. But a softer, fun-loving side emerges on the dance-floor-ready “Complicated”, its lush pop hooks and relatable relationship themes bursting with summertime energy. Food metaphors abound on “Ackee”, a comparatively minimalist cut that makes her pleasure-seeking intentions clear with directions and instructions. Elsewhere, she flirts with Jersey club on the erotic, psychedelic “Let It Ring” alongside rapper Kaliii. Capping things off with a “Slide” remix dubbed “DESLIZA”, she invites funk carioca rap duo Tasha & Tracie to give it some Brazilian flair.