Smoothwaffle, an artist from Newport News, VA, has returned with his new single, "NOiR...!" The track offers a thoughtful exploration of themes like love, betrayal, and identity, blending elements of jazz and hip-hop to create a sound that feels both raw and introspective.
Real name Sean Mentis, Smoothwaffle’s background as a military kid in Germany informs much of his work. He draws from his experiences to create music that resonates on a personal level. Since beginning his music journey in 2006 and taking it seriously by 2010, he has become a notable figure in Philadelphia’s underground scene after relocating there and studying at The Art Institute.
The collaboration on "NOiR...!" with saxophonist Gabe Preston and bassist Tim Jones adds a rich texture to the song, which reflects the struggles of dealing with loss and self-doubt. Smoothwaffle describes the track as a message for anyone feeling trapped in cycles of uncertainty, capturing that search for hope in challenging times.
This single serves as a precursor to his upcoming fourth studio project, "TRiUMPH...!" set to be released later this year. Based on what we hear in "NOiR...!", fans can anticipate a compelling mix of jazz, hip-hop, and poetry that dives deep into the emotional landscape.