2025 has been off to a polarizing start, creating an ill prepared shift and a necessary discomfort for change. As we go through these many changes, DMV raised and Philadelphia based artist Neptune XXI has given us a bit of hope to hold onto with her recently released album, “Medicine Music”.
Released January 16th, Medicine Music, is an 18 track album that delves into the many facets of Neptune; from her sisterhood and family ties to her unwavering confidence to her connection with God. The main genre is hip hop, but also explores poetry, meditative nuances, gospel and even songs reminiscent of the 80s, like the song “Earth to Neptune”.
The project welcomes the listener to the backseat of the car of Neptune and a friend amidst their oceanic conversation of assurance as they contemplate their entrance into a ceremonial celebration. There are many guests throughout the album, including Nep’s grandmother, that emote a comfort or command.
“Heaven On Me”, one of Neptunes’ favorite tracks initiates the body of work with calm production and electric lyrics. The continuity of her lyricism paired with confident tone and her DC twang leaves you wanting more.
This album reflects the balance of Neptune, XXI & Alanna. Poetic reflections of Neptune, a dominant bounce from XXI and an unveiling of vulnerability of Alanna. She speaks of personal losses, triumphs and certainty that allows you into what her world has recently been.
Neptune has many extensions of self at play when it came to bringing this project to life; expanding from adding production to more than half the album, to stepping into creative direction for her album cover, to the marketing of the songs on her social media. She’s been hands on with creating something beautiful to connect to.
This can be categorized as a hip hop or poetry album, but it explores many other themes and subgenres. I’d recommend this album to any explorative listener, because you might have found a new favorite artist.
If you like what you heard, Neptune will be supporting Marc Bravo and friends on April 5th!
Find out more, visit her website at https://www.neptunexxi.com/ and follow her on Instagram at @NeptuneXXI.
I dedicate this article to Neptune’s late godson, Micari.