The music industry is crowded with familiar names, but new artists keep finding ways to break through. One of them is ‘umtrillest, a rapper, singer and songwriter originally from New York and now based in Atlanta, whose EP Reverb+ showcases his distinctive mix of styles.
Who Is umtrillest?
umtrillest is the stage name of Chaz Simmons, born on 26 August 2000. His music combines two contrasting sides: emotional, emo-influenced rapping over lo-fi hip-hop beats, and a more energetic, confident style. Together they form the artistic identity he wants listeners to recognise.
He gained attention with the project Saint Dismas, including its title track and a collaboration with D3$. His earlier release Heartbreak Lane 2 reportedly gathered around 100,000 streams on Apple Music, his strongest platform. Fans have pointed out that the “2” refers to an earlier Heartbreak Lane EP from March 2019, which now survives mainly on an old YouTube account.
He no longer posts on SoundCloud, though he still interacts there with fellow artists such as MOFFY and KysDream. His most-played Spotify track is “COME OUT N’ PLAY”, a song said to showcase both sides of his musical personality.
About Reverb+
The EP’s title is a nod to one of the most important tools in music production. You can stream it through the artist’s DistroKid link to his music.
What Is Reverb in Music Production?
Reverb is the way sound lingers after it is made. It happens when sound waves bounce off surfaces and create many overlapping reflections that slowly fade. Reverb tells the listener how big a space feels, from a small room to a cathedral.
Do Rappers Use Reverb?
Yes, but carefully. Vocals are usually recorded in a treated booth to capture as little natural reverb as possible, so producers can add exactly the amount they want later. A little reverb makes vocals sound fuller and more natural. Too much pushes them back in the mix and can blur the words, which is a problem for rap where clarity matters.
Why Does Reverb Make Vocals Sound Better?
Our sense of space affects how we feel about a sound. Producers use reverb to create atmosphere, for example making a voice sound as if it is filling a large venue, which can add emotion and depth.
EPs vs Albums
An EP (extended play) contains more tracks than a single but fewer than an album, usually four to six songs. EPs are quicker and cheaper to produce, which makes them ideal for:
- Introducing a new artist to listeners and the press.
- Experimenting with new sounds without committing to a full album.
- Keeping fans engaged between larger projects.
- Supporting a tour or promotional push.
For independent artists like umtrillest, EPs are a smart way to keep releasing music and grow a fan base step by step.
