Rayhan releases debut EP

Based in Toronto, Rayhan is a rapper, actor and sketch comedian whose journey began with skateboarding and theatre before expanding into film and TV. Alongside his acting career, he developed his writing skills and performed sketch comedy shows across Ontario, blending his various talents into a unique creative output.

Bringing us the perfect snapshot of his sonic vision, he shares his debut EP titled HIGH NOON, a six-track outing written over the course of just three weeks. The EP’s title is a nod to Rayhan’s love for Western movies, but it also speaks to his unconventional creative process; written and recorded in rapid fashion, each track was created while he was stoned before noon. This lighthearted yet personal approach shines throughout the release, which explores the highs and lows of his life, distilling themes of identity, belonging and self-reflection.

The record is as much a story of his journey as it is a love letter to the friends and collaborators who have shaped his own artistic world. Rayhan linked up with producers, photographers and visual artists from across the globe, including Toronto, Ottawa, London, New York City, Melbourne and Guatemala. Some collaborators were childhood friends, while others were connections he made later in life through university and artistic pursuits. This team brings a diverse energy to the project, uniting a global community of creatives to amplify Rayhan’s voice.

Opened by “FOREVER SOLID INTRO,” the soft pulse of airy synth textures and slick lead guitar licks glides into a laid back hip hop groove capped by Rayhan’s smooth rapped flows. Cut with bright vocal sample shots and driven by the mellow snap of the beat, it’s an engaging jam that puts Rayhan’s highly original alternative hip hop sound on full display. “Evil Strings, Pure Heart” sees sparse percussive shots and dreamy string elements tumble into place behind Rayhan’s razor sharp vocal delivery, resulting in a vintage-tinged outing.

With “Good Looking Rapper,” he spins lively bars over the rattle of hi hats and punch of drums as intricate instrumental tones delicately dance around his voice. “HIGH NOON CRAY” serves up a gripping soundscape that deftly balances elegant guitar flickers with intense instrumental elements as Rayhan’s enthralling vocals shine throughout. On “Universe of Love,” Rayhan lays down a soulful jam brimming with sepia-toned arrangement, grooving rhythms and silky vocals to craft a charming moment on the EP.

Closing the release, “FLY LIL RAY OUTRO” brings together bold beats, colourful arrangement and old school vibes as Rayhan’s compelling vocal performance threads playful lyricism via catchy delivery to offer a memorable finale to his superb debut EP. With two new EPs titled UntitledLove and UntitledDOPE on the horizon, Rayhan is sure to continue winning over fans around the world with his original and infectious sonic vision.

Listen to HIGH NOON below