HAUNT-O-HOLIXXX THE MIXTAPE: Album Review

Since his initial rise in 2019 with the album Rainbow Bridge, Sematary has been a leader in every sense of the word. He’s managed to materialize a collective of artists and producers who share the same vision and sound, garner love and support from a fanbase that more closely resembles a cult, and generate a tangible image through skilled and intentional use of aesthetics that makes the “Haunted Mound” brand instantly recognizable.

This image or theme he’s created also manifests in his music. With influence from artists like Chief Keef, Gucci Mane, and other early trap innovators, Sematary has always leaned into their style in his own dark and unique way. As we can see from his new project, Haunt-O-Holixxx: The Mixtape, he has truly mastered this approach. The album spans 28 tracks and runs for roughly an hour and a half. While the project is long, it isn’t a tedious listen, and despite Sematary’s eclectic and harsh style—one he remains true to—this is by far his most creative and inspired work yet.

Songs like “4 in a Faygo,” “I Hate Myself,” and “Grave Robber” channel a nostalgic ambience in a tasteful, non-corny manner, unlike most of the nostalgia-baiting slop currently making waves on the internet. But Sematary also brings entirely new and unique vibes to the table on tracks like “Laura,” “3 AM Gang,” and “Set Me on Fire.” This speaks to his curation abilities and the overall nuance of the album.

While I haven’t always been a Sematary fan—largely because of his music’s abrasive and uncontrolled nature—it feels like that line has been thinning recently, and Sematary has now mastered the art of taste-making. Above all, this excites me for the future of Haunted Mound and their expanding world.

Rating: 8/10