Smooth, soulful and lyrically thought-provoking is probably the simplest description to the song “Talking Down”. This is a boombap hip-hop record by Canadian producer Im’peretiv (born Nate Butcher) and Vancouver emcee Aktu El Shabazz.

The track arrives as the second single on Im’peretiv’s upcoming EP Full Circle — the first single and also the title-track featured Mickey Factz, Junk & Flipout. Bar after bar, Aktu’s delivery is masterful. That, together with Im’peretiv’s inspired production, “Talking Down” is a compelling listen.