Phil Bank$, a rising artist and producer from New Jersey, steps up to the plate with his debut album, The Solivagant, a project bubbling with raw emotion, personal reflection, and a sense of purpose. Having only begun taking music seriously at the end of 2022, Bank$ channels years of life experience into a sound that feels extremely personal. His blend of lo-fi hip-hop production and real-life bars makes this album a deep dive into his own struggles while offering a message of resilience for others.

The Solivagant was born out of a particularly tough period in Phil Bank$’s life. With his parents splitting, his grandmother’s health declining, and his father needing surgery, the weight of these personal challenges urged him to look at musical creation as a form of therapy. The album became a way to express his pain and reflect on how to maintain a positive mindset despite everything. One of the most touching aspects of The Solivagant is how Phil Bank$ brings his family into the project. The album opens with “Helen’s Song,” which features his grandmother’s voice, immediately grounding the listener in the deeply personal nature of the record. His father, who was also a producer, appears on the track “The Real,” further connecting the themes of family, legacy, and perseverance. The album is not just about Phil’s journey, but also serves as a guide for his younger sister and others on how to navigate life’s trials and still manage to come out stronger.

The Solivagant delivers a mix of chilled-out rap beats layered with aggressive, heartfelt bars. The lo-fi hip-hop production adds to the album’s introspective vibe, while the rough mixes of some tracks enhance the raw emotion in Phil Bank$’s voice. It’s clear that he is constantly searching for answers to his problems, his lyrics reflecting a desire for resolution amidst a world of chaos. One of the strongest tracks on the album is "Splatter." With a clean mix and clear vocals, Phil addresses heavy themes such as violence, systemic racism, and the fears of growing up in a world that feels stacked against you. The song highlights his lyrical talent, showing his ability to tackle serious societal issues while remaining personal and direct. The final track, “Keep Fighting,” takes a different turn in both energy and sound. It feels like the culmination of the album’s journey, a song filled with optimism and hope. Here, Phil Bank$ summarizes everything he’s been through, conveying a heightened sense of strength and perseverance. It’s a reminder to keep pushing forward, no matter what seems to be standing in your way.

At the core of his music is Phil Bank$’s desire to inspire young people who may feel voiceless. He wants the album to serve as a guide for navigating life’s hardships, particularly for those who might not know how to express themselves. His own journey, from feeling lost to finding his way through music, is a testament to the power of self-expression, and he hopes to be a leader within his community by showing others they can do the same.