Music Review - Point of No Return EP

Artist:  Mr. Envi’
Album:  Point of No Return

For over a decade now, Mr. Envi’ has been juggling the responsibilities of running the Southern Stisles record label along with being a rapper and a producer.  His latest release suggests that his artistic aspirations are reaching beyond the well-worn borders of Texas, Arkansas and Louisiana.  Described as the first in a three-part series, the Point of No Return E.P. focuses squarely on Envi’s rhyming capabilities, leaving the production in the hands of Christopher “Fuol” Vailes and Torrance “Mista T” Brossette.  With a small cadre of vocal support of tow, Mr. Envi’ reaffirms the importance of staying on his grind and how the hustle never stops, a pair of themes that appears often within his music.

The title track serves as an opening intro, its instrumental awash in repetitive piano patterns and apocalyptic orchestral hits.  Mr. Envi’s voice rides low keyboard riffs as he laments the pointlessness in pleasing others and his determination to make it in spite of the naysayers within earshot.  “Where U From” is so bottom heavy that it should come with its own spinners to accessorize whatever car blasts this cut.  The rumble from the synthesized horns alone is enough to keep subwoofers vibrating for days on end.  Guest vocalist J.B. joins Mr. Envi’ on this one, monotone singing his way through his verse while wearing neighborhood pride like medals of honor.  As eerie synth tones waft their way through the track, Envi’ offers a piece of advice for those from out of town:  “Just know your place and everything will be good.”

“Back It Off” contrasts tough beats with sweet, syrupy melodies as crunchy snares crackle and pop over sustained bass chords and glistening electronic tones.  Jeramie of TRT rides shotgun, echoing the conclusions of Mr. Envi’s bars when he’s not supplying the vocal hook.  “Laura” establishes a classic Southern bounce pattern with endless hi-hats, plastic claps, and elastic keyboard stabs.  Mr. Envi’ and MD trade lyrics over infectious organ and guitar riffs, dismissing the hopeless efforts of a guy trying to hold on to a girl who will likely leave the club with someone else.  To drive the point home, MD asks a rhetorical question during the chorus:  “Why you wanna bring sand to the Sahara?”

Jeremy “Unmasked” Smith contributes some comic relief for a pair of interludes, appearing as Lil Bernie Mac.  While these pieces aren’t exactly necessary, there’s no denying that Smith certainly has the late comedian’s inflections and pitch down to a science.  However, Mr. Envi’ ultimately walks away with the best track of the E.P.  “Re Up” wins with a low rider rhythm brushed with warm harmonies and triumphant horn hits.  The kick/snare combination is liable to make anyone nod their head and sing along to Envi’s catchy chorus.  Breaking down his creative process and work ethic within his verses, he acknowledges the significance of affiliations and collaborations while still asking himself what will make him stand out against the competition.  Such concerns are likely to be addressed on the other releases within this series and Point of No Return makes for a good start to learning more about this artist.

Reviewed by Jason Randall Smith

Rating:  3 stars (out of 5)