It’s not uncommon for hip-hop artists to be concerned with aligning themselves with the old school, especially to let you know they’re not new kids on the block and have experience to back up their artistic expressions. Ximbo and Bial Hclap seem to be taking this route on their new single “Del Parque,” except they go one step further to reclaim the real old school. The single is a narrative about a time when they were just kids, playing in the streets, riding their bikes, and making up games. It’s an endearing and playful ode to simpler times.
A member of such underground institutions as Magisterio and the Mujeres Trabajando collective, Ximbo has been in the rap game for a long time now. “Del Parque” marks her return to the mic after 10 years, and she wastes no time proving that she still has the skills that made her infamous. The lyrics are concerned with innocent street life and hip-hop realness, and she commands her rhyming and singing skills in equal measure. Bial Hclap‘s beat is playful and smooth. In fact, the whole track is a throwback to 90s hip-hop vibes.
“Del Parque” is the first track shared from the forthcoming Ximbo album Ohkela, via Handiclap Records. Ohkela will feature production from Milio Boogie, Arturo Macías, and Bial Hclap; guest spots will include Aldo Max (of Santa Sabina and Los Músicos De José fame), and spitters such as Akil Ammar and Eptos Uno.
“Del Parque” is a refreshing summery jam that will take you back to your childhood and a different time in rap history.