UK rapper Jordy released his fifth EP, 'SNM', this year, effectively tackling themes of his life and career and brings his series of music releases (starting from 2021) to a finale.
Jules Riemenschneider reviews.
SNM
"His progression as a person and rapper, as seen in SNM, serves as a testament to his unwavering consistency and dedication to his craft."
Here to complete his trilogy, the Essex-based wordsmith, Jordy, unveils his anticipated
8-track EP, SNM. An acronym for ‘say no more’ acts as a fitting title to reflect his current
While all three projects have defined a moment in the rapper's career with exceptional
lyricism and care, SNM, presents a more laid back and introspective approach. Serving as a
revisit of the past, the reflective piece engages with difficult subjects matters, all navigated
within an increasingly successful career.
"His production choices never overshadow his verses, instead they go hand in hand with his introspective lyrics"
Jordy kicks off the EP with Minimum Wage, a track that introduces the minimal production
style which makes up the project. Light piano keys and soulful samples are contrasted by an
imminent bass and high hats. This allows Jordy to make way for his pronounced and fierce
bars to take the centre stage. His production choices never overshadow his verses, instead
they go hand in hand with his introspective lyrics. With the first track, Jordy begins his
reflective journey by discussing the hardships of his early days in the music industry with a
sense of refreshing honesty. Moving into, PLT, a soulful sample drifts behind Jordy’s fierce
freestyle as he weighs up the importance of authenticity over material success. The MC lays
out his intentions as he spits, “we built this but we don't build bridges, we set it alight
And when I'm done wrong, I set it straight, not set it aside.” The importance of purpose has
been consistent since the start of his career and has garnered him a loyal fanbase.
Jordy continues to set his intentions straight in The Most Generous. Here Jordy raps “all I
care about is legacy, navigating through this thing and keeping my integrity.” Not only is this
a nod to his morals but reflects his personality. Beyond his charisma on Filthy Fellas and
music with Vibbar, his own music speaks to his maturity, his seriousness and dedication for
perfecting his craft. The track utilises a looped baseline and subtle electronic elements
demonstrating Jordy’s ability to move smoothly between rap and melodic verses, a
consistent skill shown across the trilogy.
Why Do I Bother serves as the most vulnerable track on the record. The piano keys and an
angelic, melodic background voice are reminiscent of Dave’s Survivors Guilt or the
hardships discussed in Panic Attack. Jordy shares that “there’s part of my life I can’t share in
my bars, the karma I’m running from is chasing me fast.” Part of his introspection is Jordy’s
accountability, his ability to recognise and admit his own wrongdoings, serving as a
testament to his personal growth as a human and as a rapper. This maturity and care for
lyricsims has garnered him co-signs from some of the most respected lyricists in the game
including Wretch 32 and Ghetts. While Jordy’s straight to the point style mirrors that of
Skepta, his hunger and evolution is reminiscent of Ghetts and clear in the following track,
Not only does Tour Money serve as a sequel to Minimum Wage, the track marks a turning
point in the album as Jordy reiterates his hunger. Accompanied by his right hand man, his
cousin Elt Cheekz, the pair display their relentless rap talent and impeccable chemistry. Yet
the lyrics convey Jordy’s frustration as he reflects on his early days as a rapper. From
booking shows and seeking recognition, both describe a continuing doubt that stems from
his humble beginnings.
Jordy’s hunger persists into Wonderkid. While delivering a cold-cutting verse, the assertion
and cadence is undeniable as he describes himself as a wonderkid. Grime veteran JME
delivers a similar verse which mirrors Jordy’s confidence as he raps about his family’s
success. Over a minimalist and atmospheric production, the pair display an effortless and
authentic chemistry while promoting family values and resisting conformity.
Jordy’s success can be attributed to his unparalleled storytelling abilities and consistent
releases. His progression as a person and rapper, as seen in SNM, serves as a testament
to his unwavering consistency and dedication to his craft.
Jule Riemenschneider
Edited by Harriet Bodle
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