Cui bono? Who benefits? Who profits off of a crime? The one who gains earthly possessions at the cost of one’s own soul — to whose benefit does one do these things? These are the questions Minnesota rapper Hollow Profit ponders on his new album Cuibono? — showcasing today on Tinnitist.
With exciting collaborations and an eclectic sonic palette, Cuibono? proves Hollow Profit is a true poet. Containing 17 tracks, the album is an ambitious project. With an impressive array of features including Ben Beal, Wais P, Bruiser Wolf, Junii, Crimson Dot, Nomrah, Ty Farris and Fat Ray, Hollow Profit and his producer 47 Quid have created an album that pays respects to boom-bap and gangsta rap while carving out its own legacy.
Sicilian Gold, the vibrant lead single, is a collaboration with Detroit rapper Ronnie Alpha. It is driven by soulful old-timey vocalisations, sparkly piano trills, and a fresh drum beat–giving it a classic glamorous vibe. “On the surface, it is about an all black outfit, highlighted by gold chains,” Hollow Profit says. “If we look a little deeper than that, it’s really about fashion and feeling confident in the way that we express ourselves.” Meanwhile, the single Clockwork features respected Brooklyn rapper Wais P. It is an unreserved exploration of the ever-increasing demands of the hip-hop industry. The honesty is refreshing and insightful, as is the boom-bap beat.
Much like De La Soul did with their magnum opus 3 Feet High and Rising, this album incorporates samples and sonic influences from a variety of genres and origins. Such is the case with the longest track Triumph, which samples the relatively obscure soul duo Gene & Eddie’s 1971 Darling I Love You. The sounds blend seamlessly with the atmospheric beats for a true old-school feel. Hollow Profit credits co-producer Nomrah as the “real saving force behind this banger of a song.”
Hailing from Duluth, Hollow Profit (real name Brody Burke) has established himself as a hometown hero. He first became introduced to hip-hop at age 14 when Eminem’s Berserk came on the radio during a family road trip. From then on, he was hooked. But it was the release of Kendrick Lamar’s modern classic To Pimp A Butterfly that spurred Burke to begin penning his own material, quickly honing his craft as a budding MC. He lists his main influences as Lamar, Wu-Tang Clan and MF Doom — all apparent in his music.
Drawing on a decade of work and commitment, Cuibono? is a project long in the making, with some tracks dating back to 2021. Although he has several singles and a 10-track LP under his belt, Burke considers Cuibono? his “first official album.” He reflects on his artistic intentions: “I would like to put out a few classics, work with the best lyricists at my disposal and inspire the next generation to do the same. I’d like to be able to help the next generation of MCs along, expanding hip-hop’s ever growing legacy. I think this culture is important to carry on.”
Cuibono? is a testament to Hollow Profit’s ability to draw on influences from the hip-hop greats and the Duluth rap scene, while crafting his own unique and signature sound. This is a man with a lot to say who knows how to say it.
Listen to the album below and meet up with Hollow Profit on his website and Instagram.
