TuneLab
Jess Ajose
Keep Hush X Footpatrol: A Mr Phomer Joint
Jess Ajose's set for the Footpatrol event is a reminder that the best hip-hop DJing isn't about flashy tricks, but about narrative flow and impeccable selection—the kind that has you frantically texting friends, 'What was that Trina flip?!'. The vibe is a confident, late-night lounge energy, all low lighting and raised drinks to a classic anthem. Technically, it's a masterful ride through varying tempos, from 97 to 176 BPM, with a smart harmonic throughline in keys like 12A and 3B to glue the eclectic choices together.
The energy is, unsurprisingly, low-end and vocal focused (70% low), providing a thick, syrupy foundation for the rap acapellas and R&B hooks to soar over. Ajose's blends are smooth and musical, prioritizing vibe over technical exhibition. The tracklist is a heavyweight roll call: 'Dizzee Rascal - Money Right' is a monumental UK rap opener; 'Pop Smoke - Dior' brings that drill menace; 'Molly Brazy & Trina - Naan (Remix)' is a fierce, feminine energy injection; and 'Blac Youngsta - Cut Up' offers trunk-rattling Southern bass.
The journey starts with the grimey declaration of 'Money Right', hits a peak of raw energy with the Megan Thee Stallion feature on 'Shotta', and winds down with the sublime, soulful cool-down of 'SWV - Rain'.