Philadelphia MC Ashoka is back with his debut EP Hard To Gain, Easy To Lose. Just one week after releasing his remix to Drake’s “Hype,” and the lead single from HTGETL “WWYD,” Ashoka delivers a cohesive and exciting 5 song project that will leave you wanting more. The tape starts off strong with “Work,” an anthem for everyone out there who’s working so hard that they don’t have time to waste. With booming subs and an unbelievably catchy hook, “Work” is definitely worth a couple listens. “For You” is next, and it’s the perfect follow up to “Work” with tons of classic east coast flavor. Filled with deeply personal lyricism, “For You” truly demonstrates the strength of Ashoka’s ability to write great music. The title track “Hard To Gain, Easy To Lose” follows “WWYD,” and is laced with witty lyricism and changing rhythmic delivery throughout. His flow on this track is unmatchable. What’s most impressive is the way Ashoka paints a vivid image with each line. Finally HTGETL closes out with the super laid back “My Own,” which will have you laid back bumping your head. Overall the EP is filled with strong lyricism and stellar production, Ashoka brings his A-game and it shows. Most comparable to a mixture of Drake circa Take Care and Big Sean circa Dark Sky Paradise, Ashoka clearly takes influence from great artists yet still does the perfect job of creating his own style and never sounding like an imitation.
Stream below.
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