New album from Hollow Profit

Hailing from Duluth in Minnesota, Hollow Profit brings a commanding presence to the underground hip hop scene via intricate storytelling and a unique production style. Known for lyrics that offer thought-provoking context and beats that draw on both retro and modern hip hop elements, he’s been winning over fans and tastemakers alike over the last three years.

Taking inspiration from legends like Kendrick Lamar and MF DOOM, Hollow Profit combines old school stylings with innovative beats, creating music that feels equally timeless and innovative. Since his debut, his journey from aspiring artist to rising star has resulted in an impressive body of work that speaks to his years of development and artistic ambition. He first made his entrance in 2021 with a feature on “Muddy II” and the following year, he made his solo debut with “Costa Rica.” His live performances, including appearances at the well known Homegrown Music Festival in Duluth, have confirmed his status as a compelling voice in hip hop.

Now he brings us his latest album titled CUIBONO?, a seventeen-track record with collaborations from names such as Ben Beal, Wais P, Bruiser Wolf, Junii, Nomrah, Ty Farris and Fat Ray. Linking up with producer 47 Quid, Hollow Profit has crafted an album that pays tribute to classic hip hop styles like boom bap and gangsta rap while filtering them through his own sonic vision. Reflecting on his career, he considers CUIBONO? to be his first official album, despite an existing portfolio of singles and a previous ten-track LP. Hollow Profit shares his hopes to “put out a few classics, work with the best lyricists, and inspire the next generation,” nodding to his dedication for carrying hip hop’s legacy forward.

The album’s lead single, “Sicilian Gold,” presents a collaboration with Detroit rapper Ronnie Alpha and brings an engaging, slick energy to the tracklist. Built on soulful vocal samples, lively piano trills and an infectious beat, the song captures the glamor of classic hip hop. The theme is simple but impactful, on the surface it’s about the confidence and swagger that comes with rocking an all-black outfit accented by gold chains. Hollow Profit explains, “If we look a little deeper, it’s really about fashion and feeling confident in the way that we express ourselves.”

Another highlight comes with “Clockwork,” featuring Brooklyn’s Wais P and and a dissection of the unrelenting demands of the hip hop industry. Supported by a classic boom bap beat, the song’s stripped-back production allows the lyrics to shine, amplifying the realities of life as an artist. “Triumph” samples the rare 1971 soul track “Darling I Love You” by Gene & Eddie, blending soulful sounds with atmospheric beats for a vintage aesthetic. Hollow Profit credits co-producer Nomrah as a “real saving force behind this banger of a song,” pointing to the collaborative ethos that fuels much of his music.

With CUIBONO?, Hollow Profit honours the genre’s roots while carrying the style forward with his pioneering sonic output. From reflective themes to powerful production, this album sees the artist preserving and progressing the style, making him one of the most essential acts in hip hop to watch in the years ahead.

Listen to CUIBONO? below