Swagger Dagger is an artist whose music sneaks up on you. Once you hear one track, you can’t help but listen to the next one. His technical skills, multisyllabic rap style, and expertly changing and well-aligned flows make him stand out on the technical side. Creatively, Swagger Dagger makes music for an expansive audience with a defined and entirely remarkable sound, and his latest album “Self Progression” is no exception.
Who is Swagger Dagger?
Swagger Dagger is a rising independent hip-hop and rap artist out of Valley Stream, New York. While his work on digital streaming platforms is growing, he has been creating music for over a decade. His latest album, “Self Progression,” is the focus of this New Music Monday.
About Self Progression
Self Progression is Swagger Dagger’s second full-length album. Previous releases include his single, “Self Progression,” which is featured in the September 2023 album, a 2021 full-length album, “In Swagger We Trust,” and singles, “Too Many Shots” and “Supreme Being.”
We got a chance to catch up with the artist, and this is what he had to say specifically about his latest project, the album “Self Progression.” “[Self Progression] is a journal of my last two years, and there’s such a beauty of duality in it all. The album covers it all, from doing shows, going to places I never thought I would go to on my own, taking chances, new experiences, and touching stages, to losing friendships, being misunderstood by family, always feeling alone, losing love for someone I once loved, growing up and finding my space in the world while chasing my dreams.”
The 11-track project has numerous highs and lows. Before we go through the project with our notes and standout moments, Swagger Dagger shares his favorite record from the album. “My most favorite song on “Self Progression” would have to be “Not Sure Where I’m Going.” I wrote it when I was going through a lot, personally and mentally, and it all came naturally to me. All the lyrics perfectly described what I went through and felt at the time. I still feel those feelings today.”
Self Progression
The production on this track stands out, and with the top position as the most popular track from the album, it’s no surprise. The beat, melodies, and sounds are energetic and cinematic, and the way that Swagger Dagger changes his flow to weave in and out of the beat to create special highlighted moments is exceptional. My only note on this track is that sometimes Swagger Dagger is rapping so fast that you can’t keep up with him! It’s incredible, and it’s not a clarity issue. This artist is FAST, and you will have to play it repeatedly to pick up all of the lyrics.
America’s Least Wanted
“America’s Least Wanted” sonically mixes boom bap with 70s sound and classic rock to create a sound that is cleanly rap but welcomes lovers of other genres. The references to old-school artists and hip-hop originators were resonating moments. Swagger Dagger mixes political messages with street ideas, a blended multi-genre soundscape, and multi-generational music references in this track. Anyone who likes real music will love this one.
Not Sure Where I’m Going
This track, Swagger Dagger’s favorite from the project, listens like a flow of consciousness with beautiful jazz undertones, piano highlights, and his signature melodically connected flow changes. Swagger Dagger is storytelling here, and if you want a closer look into this artist’s perspective, this is the track you want to hear. “I’m not sure where I’m going, but it’s closer to my dreams.”
Listen Through Self Progression
There is so much more to be heard on this album and from Swagger Dagger, so take this review, run it over to your digital streaming player, and listen all the way through. It’s something new and refreshing with comforting, reminiscent vibes from days gone by. “Self Progression” is a surprising project that continues to entertain, piquing curiosity with each track. Explosive new music? Yes, indeed.
Connect with Swagger Dagger
Listeners and readers interested in connecting with Swagger Dagger can find him on Instagram and access his media properties here. If you want to share your thoughts on the album, drop them below in the comments!
Are You Next?
Submit your music for review or your EPK and biography for interview consideration to Photobombshell at info@photobombshell.media.
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