MOOLODIC: Hotep Luxury is a reminder of how rare warmth is in hip-hop these days. Rather than being defined by bravado, hardness, status, or confrontation, this record is gentle and sunny with a loose and soulful calm. The album begins with reflective beat-poetry before the first full track BENO! which makes it clear that while this record feels relaxed, it’s not retro or dusty in its execution.

Crisp, modern hip-hop guided by a deep affection for soul and jazz, the album moves between moods and grooves like a mixtape. PT Cruiser with SZA is a standout slow jam that’s hazy, romantic and unhurried as MoRuf moves effortlessly between rapping and singing. Their chemistry feels sharp and natural with the two voices sharing space and hooks rather than competing. There are moments elsewhere that carry the distinctly mischievous and playful swagger of Tyler, The Creator in the spirit of curiosity and looseness, also bringing OutKast to mind in the way the record balances reflective soulfulness with bumping, head-nodding tracks. Light My Fire is drenched in warmth, built around a chorus that feels lifted straight from the classic R&B of Luther Vandross or Lionel Richie, beautiful and sincere. There’s self-aware humour throughout that’s clever without feeling like the record is trying to prove anything. This is hip-hop as unaggressive comfort music, never raising its voice. It’s classy without being snooty, and thoughtful without being heavy. The album is short and sharp, with every track earning its place and offering something distinct. When it leans into soul, it does so fully with a warm sincerity, and MoRuf comes across as grounded and deeply likeable. Calm and reflective hip-hop with a belief in generosity and positivity.