Vid Pick: Bop Alloy w/ Oma Pearl - Sketches of Pain

Can a song be political, motivating, thought provoking, and jazzy all at the same time? In the capable hands of the Bop Alloy duo of Substantial and Marcus D it isn’t just a possibility, it’s a reality, as evidenced by their latest single, “Sketches of Pain.”

“Sketches of Pain” is a deeply personal track, and while the vibe is mellow, what Substantial is rapping about is anything but, as he openly discusses some of the struggles of being Black in America. Because of the musical vibe, however, nothing about “Sketches of Pain” comes off as preachy, instead it draws compassion out of the listener. This is a heck of an impressive feat. Of course, we should all be used to being impressed by Substantial by now.