ISHMAEL – “NEW PICASSO”
He’s got a style all his own, but this new track from Rochester-rooted artist ISHMAEL is reminding us of someone.
“NEW PICASSO” is properly named, as both ISHMAEL’s vocal delivery and production choices draw parallels to a certain Pablo-influenced emcee during his less offensive, more acclaimed era. The Kanye influence comes through in the varied vocal stylings, varying from aggressively in-your-face to delicate autotune falsetto. Its production through-lines are exciting as well, with powerful bass lines countered with a chorus of heavenly harmonies. An extended outro brings it home, gradually punctuating one of the elaborate and impressive hip hop structures we’ve heard so far this year.
If you’re feeling ISHMAEL give him a listen on Spotify. While you’re there, peep our Best Underground Hip Hop of 2026 playlist updated with vibrant new artists every single week.
Categorised in: New Music, Rochester
This post was written by Matt Moretti