Album Review: State of Mind 2.0, Fifth Element & Doublescreen

Fifth Element comprises two Ballymun buckos: Ryan ‘Linco’ Lincoln and Ger Kellett. And State Of Mind 2.0 is their epic, 16-track collaboration with DJ and producer DoubleScreen.

Delivering a grittier sound than we’re used to hearing in Irish hip-hop, the album is drenched in hypnotic electro beats, garage and some absolutely filthy drum ‘n’ bass. And it works. Indeed, the first half of State Of Mind 2.0 really shines: there’s ‘Faces (Trench Road)’, all moody and atmospheric electro; and ‘Heroes (Lame Heart)’, which boasts more chilled, but equally compelling production. However, the really unforgettable tracks are those initial collaborations. ‘False Mercury’ is a drum ‘n’ bass belter with smooth-as-silk singing from Joni; meanwhile, the dark and sublime ‘Walk With Me’ features another stunning vocal from Zeinab, as well as a guest rap from another Hot Press fave, Bitter Rocc. All told, it is a highly impressive debut from a super-talented crew – watch this space.