In a year filled with remarkable releases, Alaska Borealis emerges as one of the most unexpected and captivating projects of 2024. Named after the awe-inspiring Northern Lights, the album serves as a beacon of musical creativity, casting light on Alaska’s burgeoning hip-hop scene. And at the heart of this release is an impressive lineup of local talent, guided by none other than Wu-Tang Clan affiliate Killah Priest. This collaboration is more than just a fusion of talents—it’s a movement that seeks to place Alaskan music firmly on the global map.
The album opens with “Dance,” a track that immediately sets the tone for what’s to come: a dynamic mix of esoteric lyricism from Killah Priest and local flavor from Radiophonic. The song is an electric opener, fusing infectious beats with introspective verses, as Priest and his collaborators take listeners from dance floors to deeper planes of thought. There’s a tangible joy in the track’s production, reminding us that hip-hop can be both cerebral and celebratory.
Each track on Alaska Borealis is a collaboration between the veteran wordsmith and Alaskan artists, all of whom bring a distinctive flair to the table. “Word to the Wise” pairs Priest’s philosophical musings with Phonetic’s sharp, streetwise verses. The contrast between Priest’s cosmic ruminations and Phonetic’s grounded delivery creates a textured sonic landscape, setting a high bar early in the album.
The introspective “Yesterday,” featuring the non-binary artist Zansler, is an emotional standout. Zansler’s delicate yet powerful delivery adds a level of vulnerability that elevates the track from standard hip-hop fare to something more personal and affecting. It’s a meditation on memory and loss, blending pop sensibilities with conscious rap—an excellent showcase of how Alaskan artists are pushing genre boundaries.
The album continues to surprise with “Deadly Combo,” featuring Alaska Redd, a track that harkens back to the gritty days of 90s East Coast rap. Alaska Redd’s raspy flow complements Priest’s abstract lyricism, resulting in a raw, unfiltered banger that feels straight out of hip-hop’s golden era. For fans of hard-hitting, no-nonsense rap, this track hits all the right notes.
Air Jazz’s contributions on “Uncle Tomahawk” and “Bonfire” offer a deeply personal touch, blending Indigenous pride with modern hip-hop’s cultural commentary. Air Jazz’s ability to weave Tlingit heritage into a contemporary soundscape is nothing short of extraordinary. These tracks are anthems of resilience and pride, adding another layer of richness to the album’s diversity.
“Stand,” featuring Lance Mitchell, is a track that feels like a rallying cry, blending gospel undertones with hip-hop’s call to action. Mitchell’s voice is commanding, lifting the track into anthem territory and reminding us of the genre’s power to inspire and unite. It’s one of the more uplifting moments on the album, a testament to the unity of this eclectic group of artists.
The production throughout the album is crisp and meticulous, thanks to the deft engineering of Jbo at Juneau’s Second2None Sound Studio. There’s an undeniable cohesion that ties these diverse tracks together, allowing each artist’s unique style to shine while maintaining a unified sonic vision. The balance of Priest’s spiritually charged bars with the Alaskan artists’ local storytelling creates a sound that feels both timeless and fresh.
At its core, Alaska Borealis is a cultural fusion that elevates hip-hop’s ethos of storytelling. It’s not just a collection of songs; it’s a statement—one that highlights the untapped potential of Alaska’s music scene and demonstrates how collaboration can lead to extraordinary art. Killah Priest’s participation, without monetary compensation, underscores his belief in the project’s mission, while offering invaluable exposure to these up-and-coming talents.
The album’s release was celebrated with a live performance in Juneau, where local artists joined Priest on stage, solidifying Alaska Borealis as a community-driven endeavor. This launch event was not just about music; it was a celebration of Alaska’s cultural identity and its place within the global hip-hop conversation.
As the Northern Lights continue to mesmerize those lucky enough to witness them, so too will the sounds of Alaska Borealis captivate listeners around the world. This album is a testament to the power of place, culture, and collaboration, and it is a bold reminder that great art often comes from the most unexpected corners of the world. With Alaska Borealis, Alaska’s voice in hip-hop is now impossible to ignore—and it’s only getting louder.
