Hello

Long ago when you were still a child, your mother undoubtedly taught you the importance of making a good first impression.  “When you meet someone for the first time,” she may have said, “be sure to politely introduce yourself.”  This fundamental rule of social etiquette serves as a launchpad into the mind of  Missoula, Montana hip hop artist Drem on “Hello,” his devilish new single released through Bitter Roots Recordings.  Drem is one of the three lyrical personas of Connor Lee Kucera, who also performs as Lou Charismo and Ronnie Knox, and this collaboration with Bitter Roots Recordings founder Hannibal Hayes (Lecture) is the ideal entry point into the sly humor and off-kilter musings that are the essence of Drem’s music.  

And what an introduction it is.  From the outset, a vibrant pulse of detuned synthesizers lends “Hello” a sense of urgency. The driving rhythm of the drums, paired with a saw bassline creates a warped energy that serves as the perfect backdrop for Drem’s detached and measured delivery.  “I’m Drem; you love me” Kucera asserts on the track’s chorus, his tone of voice  leaving no room for objection or argument.  Moments later, the affection is reciprocated: “I’m your best friend.”  It’s the effortlessness of Kucera’s flow that glues these disparate elements together, highlighting Drem’s wry wit without ever winking to the camera.  “Hello” makes one thing about Drem crystal clear: he intends to keep you on your toes.

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