Che Noir Blossoms on "The Lotus Child" with Production and Purpose

ARTICLE JOHN SABBIA

Che Noir's latest project, The Lotus Child, sees the Buffalo-born rapper, known for her hard-hitting lyricism and evocative storytelling, stepping further into her production prowess. The 8-track release is almost entirely self-produced, a daring move in today’s hip-hop scene, adding yet another layer to Che’s artistry. In doing so, she crafts a narrative-heavy project that explores themes of resilience, identity, and self-love, anchored in gritty beats and introspective flows. With only one track produced by the legendary Statik Selektah, The Lotus Child feels intimate and uniquely hers.

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Opening with "Shadow Puppet," Che Noir sets the tone for the album, drawing listeners into a world that mirrors both her struggles and triumphs. The track boasts her usual thought-provoking bars, dissecting personal and social obstacles with precision. It's an introduction to the tenacity that defines The Lotus Child and Che Noir’s journey as an artist.

The standout track, "Black Girl," pairs Che with North Carolina’s lyrical powerhouse, Rapsody. Together, they deliver a powerful anthem that celebrates Black womanhood and challenges stereotypes. Over a smooth beat that Che crafted herself, the duo's chemistry shines through, offering one of the project’s most memorable moments.

Following this is "Sister Act," which dives into the complexities of sisterhood and community support. The track, backed by Che's haunting production, speaks to the strength found in female relationships, exploring loyalty and understanding in a way that feels both raw and uplifting.

On "Guns & Roses," Che teams up with longtime collaborator 38 Spesh. The track’s dark, bass-heavy vibe sets the stage for both artists to flex their lyrical agility, with Che delivering punchlines that cement her place as one of the sharpest pens in the game.

"Jodie Landon," featuring Jack Davey, pays homage to a character from the cult classic show Daria. The song taps into themes of self-expression and individuality, as Che and Jack Davey explore their paths in an industry that often favors conformity. Che’s production on this track stands out with its layered samples and mellow basslines, offering a nostalgic yet fresh vibe.

"Wis Love" with Bairi shifts the tone to a more introspective, soulful vibe. Over an airy beat, the track showcases Bairi's silky vocals as she harmonizes with Che’s bars on the trials of love and self-worth. It’s a softer side to the album, balancing the tougher themes with a delicate touch.

"Choices" continues to delve into the complexities of decision-making and consequences. Che uses this track to address past mistakes and lessons learned, showing growth as both an artist and individual. Her self-produced beat is minimalist, allowing her lyrics to take center stage.

The project closes with "Angels," a collaborative effort with The Soulyghost. The atmospheric production complements Che's reflective lyrics as she speaks to the guidance and protection she’s felt from those no longer with her. It’s a heartfelt ending to an album that’s been a testament to her strength and evolution.

With The Lotus Child, Che Noir blossoms both lyrically and sonically. The album is an invitation into her world, offering introspection wrapped in powerful production. Che’s decision to produce nearly the entire project herself solidifies her as a multifaceted talent in hip-hop. The Lotus Child is not just a project; it’s a statement that Che Noir’s artistry knows no bounds.