#USA #Phoenix #Independent Music #John Keenan #Wreckage of the Past

A New Era for Hip-Hop

Independent rapper, producer, and author John Keenan has recently launched his newest album, Wreckage of the Past, a project that encapsulates a decade's worth of creativity. This 18-track record arises from a journey filled with unfinished ideas, building a vibrant blend of hip-hop along with elements of funk, jazz chords, guitar solos, and orchestration.

A Unique Approach to Music Creation

Keenan’s artistic approach stands out in today’s algorithm-driven music landscape. By leaning into raw authenticity, he aims to revive the true essence of hip-hop amidst a sea of trendy sounds and commercial pressures. He states, "Three days before mixing, I realized I'd never asked for help—too much pride and insecurity. So I booked a big studio, re-recorded all the vocals in a sprint, and finally heard my songs the way they should sound." This pivotal moment transformed the way Keenan perceived his work, allowing the album to resonate with emotional depth and energy.

Creative Risks and Honest Lyrics

Keenan proudly remarks that the album is not about conforming but rather about embracing the danger of creativity. He consciously steered away from anything that felt safe or predictable, filling the tracks with guitar riffs, synth solos, and brutally honest lyrics. He explains, “If something felt safe or trendy, I did the opposite.” This raw expression of vulnerability and storytelling is what gives Wreckage of the Past its unique identity.

Early Acclaim

Since its release, the album has garnered praise from various critics. Ian Ureta from The Gatekeeper Space noted, “Ultimately, Wreckage of the Past isn't trying to reinvent hip-hop; it's trying to reclaim it... messy, human, political, joyful, contradictory and above all; authentic.” Similarly, We Write About Music highlighted the album as “a sprawling experience of independence... rare ambition, rare cohesion, rare honesty.” Critics emphasize Keenan’s ability to balance his artistry effectively while maintaining a raw edge.

Standout Tracks

Some standout tracks from this ambitious album include:

• - “Afraid to Try”: This song features jazz-infused chords paired with live-feel drums that transform hesitation into forward momentum.
• - “Letter to the President”: An urgent piece that blends orchestral grit with powerful protest themes.
• - “No Stress At All”: A breezy, funk-drenched escape, showcasing a lighter side of Keenan's musical range.

A Journey from Kansas to Phoenix

Rooted in his small-town Kansas upbringing and further sharpened during his time in Phoenix, Wreckage of the Past communicates with listeners who are hungry for sincerity and ambition. The album serves not just as a standalone project but as an integral part of Keenan’s ongoing artistic journey. Accompanying the album, a companion book detailing the decade-long creative process is set to be released this fall, offering fans deeper insights into his work.

Conclusion

John Keenan’s Wreckage of the Past is more than just an album; it’s a declaration. In a world increasingly dominated by automated and formulaic sounds, Keenan’s work emerges as a refreshing reminder of what hip-hop can be when rooted in truth, artistry, and personal experience. Fans can stream the album on platforms like Spotify and Apple Music, embarking on a journey through Keenan's multifaceted musical landscape.