Boldy James & whothehelliscarlo - Hidden In Plain Sight (EP)
Boldy James continues his dominant run in 2024, closing the year with “Hidden In Plain Sight”, a seven-track EP produced by whothehelliscarlo. Following collaborations with heavyweights like Conductor Williams, Harry Fraud, and Nicholas Craven, Boldy’s latest project reaffirms his status as one of hip-hop’s most consistent and skilled storytellers. Boldy effortlessly marries his signature bravado with Carlo’s atmospheric and textured production. The result is a project that feels both intimate and expansive, solidifying Boldy’s place as one of the most consistent voices in hip-hop today.
whothehelliscarlo crafts a soundscape that leans heavily on soulful loops, sparse drums, and haunting undertones. Tracks like “Brick After Brick” and “Veil of Smoke” showcase Carlo’s ability to elevate Boldy’s street narratives with minimalist yet striking beats. The production doesn’t overpower Boldy but instead serves as a canvas for his intricate bars to shine. Boldy’s pen is as sharp as ever. Across seven tracks, he delivers vivid tales of survival, loyalty, and the weight of the streets. His verses are layered, rewarding multiple listens to fully grasp the metaphors and double entendres. “Dirty Dancing” is a hard-hitting opener that sets the tone with its brooding beat and Boldy’s razor-sharp cadence. “Hidden In Plain Sight” with Conway & Styles P, the title track encapsulates the project’s themes of navigating the unseen dangers in plain view. “Brock James,” a reflective closer that finds Boldy at his most introspective, delivering some of the year’s most quotable lines.
The EP’s title, Hidden In Plain Sight, feels like a metaphor for Boldy himself—a low-key figure in the rap game who consistently delivers work that demands attention. His delivery remains calm and calculated, adding an air of authenticity to his gritty tales. The recurring themes of camouflage, survival, and outsmarting the opposition give the project cohesion without becoming repetitive. “Hidden In Plain Sight” is another jewel in Boldy James’ crown, showcasing his ability to adapt to different production styles while maintaining his unique voice. whothehelliscarlo’s production complements Boldy’s introspective yet assertive style, making this EP a standout in an already impressive catalog. Boldy continues to prove that he thrives in collaboration, and this project is a fitting close to his incredible year.