Van Buren Carries Their Momentum Into 2020 With “GoodEvil” by Luke Bar$
Van Buren Records has wasted no time building off the hype that they created in 2019. Just over a month after he and his Brockton counterparts tore down the House of Blues at the Boston Music Awards, Luke Bar$ released his latest album “GoodEvil” on January 21st.
Last February, he gave us the “2 Sides” EP with fellow Van Buren member Jiles. It was the beginning of what would be a breakout year for the collective that has every local hip-hop fan talking. A few months later, he was one of a handful of Massachusetts artists who received in invite to J. Cole and Dreamville’s “Revenge Of The Dreamers III” studio sessions.
“GoodEvil” is Bar$’ most impressive body of work yet. From both a sonic and maturity standpoint, his growth continues to be apparent with ever release. As enjoyable as “2 Sides” was, the honesty and humility on this latest project will only strengthen his connection with his rapidly growing fan base. It’s a real life glimpse into the highs and lows of his upbringing in Brockton and how his surroundings have shaped him as a person. As he told Vanyaland, the title “GoodEvil” is a reflection on both the beauty and ugliness that he’s experienced on his path to finding his purpose.
The album’s lone features are provided by Dupes as well as Boston’s $ean Wire, who took home “R&B Artist Of The Year” at the BMA’s. It’s available on all streaming services and all eight tracks are more than worth your time.