EP Review

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Wednesday 18 April 2007 (Michael Bugeja - The Malta Independent)

New name, new project but certainly no novices at the game - that could be one way of describing Da Sixth! Featuring a three-strong core line-up, Sixth Simfoni is essentially Pen_Demonium, D Legacy and Simon Vella. The first two have long been part of the local hiphop scene, fronting IQ and Sanitarium respectively, while multi-instrumentalist Vella has over the years established himself as one of Malta’s most versatile musicians, thanks largely to his polished violin playing and his extraordinary knack of crossing over into various genres! Launched a couple of weeks ago with a live performance at Luxol, Sixth Simfoni’s self-titled EP is a slicker, but not subdued, expression of their spirited onstage presentation.

It kicks in with an elegant violin melody and features several guest artists, mostly all drafted to contribute a soulful side to Da Sixth’s rap element. The 8 cuts on offer also reflect broader musical inclinations, especially on the operatic tilt of Breakthru and Strade, again embossed with Vella’s animated violin playing as much as with Rachel Fabri and Nick Agius Darmanin’s vocals. Baresine brings out Momma’s emotive vein strongly and Claire Cordina’s subtle but effective chorus completes Spread Your Wings. Underneath it all, Vella, along with producer Niki Gravino, have laid out rhythmic grooves and elaborate arrangements that blend and flow smoothly for Pen_Demonium and D Legacy’s imposing rap. St Passive pretty much represents Da Sixth’s playing field, with both rappers playing off each other in their anti-establishment rant. Closer Hold On is not just a bonus track, it also highlights a sharp aptitude for reworking a cool sample into an altogether new tune! Expect to hear more from Da Sixth!

Sixth Simfoni at MySpace