Joey Valence & Brae Are Having the Time of Their Lives in 'NO HANDS'
Photo: Connor Phillips
Buckle up, buttercup, because viral alt-punk-rap duo Joey Valence & Brae have finally released their highly anticipated sophomore album, NO HANDS. This self-written, self-produced, self-mixed, and mastered collection is a unique blend of alt-punk rap, showcasing their evolution from their critically acclaimed debut album, PUNK TACTICS. This diverse range of tracks skillfully traverses a collision of '90s hip-hop, drum ‘n’ bass, and decades-spanning pop culture references without ever sacrificing an ounce of the duo's originality at the heart of it all.
"NO HANDS is driving home the point that we do this on our own and that we're confident about it," shares Joey Valence. "Like, 'Look Ma, no hands.' It also doubles for having no hands working on this project other than us in terms of the creative. This album is us doubling down: we bet on ourselves, and it worked. [and] we're still having the best time of our lives."
The distinctive vision behind this album is evident from the very first track, "BUSSIT." The duo delivers back-to-back bars full of attitude and personality, with deep, bassy beats serving as the backdrop for their quick wit and sharp-tongued lines. After going tit for tat, with their clever lyricism, the song transitions into a breakbeat intermission before introducing the next song, "PACKAPUNCH." Featuring Detroit rap titan Danny Brown, who they reached out to over DM, "PACKAPUNCH" is a stellar creation that boasts high-octane, nostalgic production and hard-hitting verses.
"THE BADDEST" is a body-shaking Miami bass banger that reeks of influences from Fatman Scoop and LMFAO and is destined to be a riot-inducing live favorite as festival season blazes on. It opens with Joey asking, "Do you think anybody's actually gonna dance to this?" Brae responds, "No," the track then erupts with the grandiose sound of horns, claps, and beats, signaling the chaos to ensue. A booming bass fills the background as 808s prop up the duo's passionate vocal delivery. The track's hook proclaims them as "the baddest bitch in this club," while their verses actually back up the claim by including clever bars like, "I'm tall, thick, and handsome / All black fit, call me Danny Phantom," and "Self-produced, ain't got no hands / Actin' goofy, comic sans."
Other standout tracks include the jazz-infused title track "NO HANDS," featuring pioneering DJ and producer Z-Trip, the housey, drum 'n' bass track "WHAT U NEED," and the video game-inspired "JOHN CENA." The latter is a synthy, tongue-in-cheek tribute to, yep, wrestling legend turned actor turned cultural icon John Cena. The band describes him as “synonymous with confidence and excitement,” with the track seamlessly mixing the best elements of old-school breakbeats and modern rage beats. Mr. P. would undoubtedly be proud of the pair.
"OMNITRIX" serves as a triumphant conclusion to this incredible sophomore effort. It's a unique cut, featuring sampled strings and soulful vocals, with a title that pays tribute to the popular cartoon Ben 10. In a statement, Joey described the finale as a "victory lap for the whole album," a more measured cadence that unveils a new dimension to the duo's bold, punk-rap stylings.
Overall, NO HANDS is pure, goofy fun. It reminds the listener to be authentic to what they genuinely enjoy without shame or taking themselves too seriously. This album further embraces the modernization of old-school hip-hop sounds while simultaneously serving as a marker of maturity, both lyrically and professionally. To put it simply, Joey Valence & Brae, and in turn NO HANDS, do NOT miss.
Listen to NO HANDS below:
