We were first introduced to this multi-layered rap wizard in the form of Avelino, also known as, Young Fire, in his 2015 collaborative mixtape, with veteran rapper, Wretch 32. Throughout the album, Young Fire, Old Flame, Avelino impressed us with his cinematic vignettes, which was an outstanding effort. In the richest way, it allowed him to express the world around him and had us hanging onto his every word. Throughout the years, Avelino illuminated his ability to make real thought provoking songs, with 2016’s EP, FYO and 2017’s first full length album, NO BULLSHIT.
Fast forward to the release of his new single, “Prey”, the rapper presents an intense, introspective wave. Avelino reflects on the environment which he grew up and the unrecognizable change amongst the majority of his peers, after being in the box. With a heavy dose of survivor’s guilt, he puts his manor on his shoulders, reps for the mandem and turns life’s pressure into diamonds. He has a knack for creating powerful narratives that uplift the dispirited and hopeless, allowing the rapper to articulate his journey from gutter to glory.
