Milwaukee rapper Vonny Del Fresco does not make a huge first impression. That’s not an insult. Del Fresco’s unassuming presence—low-key but alert, relaxed but never passive—is precisely what makes him such a welcome presence in the city’s rap scene. In an age where so many rappers fall back on loud gimmicks, there’s something refreshing about a lyricist who presents himself as he is, without hiding behind an assumed persona or unnatural affects.
Of all the acts we featured in last week’s cover story about the new talent invigorating the local rap scene, Del Fresco is probably the least stylized, and the least concerned with showmanship. What he lacks in pizazz, however, he easily makes up for with his artistry and exquisite taste. In the ’90s, it was usually the least flashy guy in a rap crew who ended up dropping some of the best solo albums, and Del Fresco is carrying on in their spirit, because his new album Memoirs one of the most realized full-lengths the city’s rap scene has produced in years.
The no-frills mentality that makes Del Fresco easy to overlook at first also makes him a perfect album artist, since his candid delivery never grows tired over 40 minutes. And his ear for production is truly impeccable: Each track is as understated as Del Fresco’s delivery, sophisticated and gorgeous in its own way but never over-embellished. Every single one of them is a joy to spend time with, especially those from Milwaukee standouts Loco Los and Derelle Rideout.
You can stream the album below.
