Joe Rocca makes a comeback with Focus / 21 Grammes, a double single that demonstrates the extent of his artistic growth

Six years after the release of his debut solo album, French Kiss, rapper and singer Joe Rocca (founding member of Dead Obies) returns with a double single that showcases two different sides of his artistry. Focus is a sensual, infectiously groovy synth funk track, while 21 Grammes highlights the artist's razor-sharp rapping skills and introspective pen game. 21 Grammes premiered yesterday on YouTube with a music video directed by Étienne Lacelle.

One can almost feel the warm Pacific coastal breeze on Focus, an 80s-style funk track worthy of Shalamar and The Whispers. Rocca is backed here by Dr. Mad, funk beatmaker and co-founder of Voyage Funktastique, producer, multi-instrumentalist and hit machine Félix Petit and keyboardist Jean-Michel Frédéric. The latter also lends his voice to the song, as do Nadia ‘Hawa B’ Baldé and Judith Little.

Focus is complemented by 21 Grammes, which takes a completely different approach by displaying the rap style the artist has been mastering for over fifteen years. Its self-exploratory lyrics are carried by an atmospheric, almost nocturnal beat. This track was unveiled yesterday with a music video that shows Joe on his family’s land in Beauce, QC, illustrating both the personal themes and stylistic return to his roots that characterize the song.

This double single gives us a taste of the musical and emotional versatility of Joe Rocca, who spent the last few years fine-tuning his craft by adding to his skillset and delving deeper into the conceptual and intimate nature of his lyrics.