Axiom ThaWyze has carved a reputation in underground hip hop as a storyteller with sharp lyricism and a taste for bold concepts. With Merfolk Space Program, his collaboration with producer Andy Idaho, he pushes those ideas even further, diving deep into a fully imagined world where aquatic mythology and gritty real-world urgency collide. The record feels equal parts sci-fi narrative and street diary, proving that hip hop can still surprise by taking risks and building full universes inside its beats and verses.
Intro
The album opens with “Intro,” a short atmospheric piece that pulls you under the surface. It sets the tone with aquatic textures and subtle tension, letting you know this is more than just a set of songs; it’s a voyage.
State of EMRGNC
Here, the urgency hits. The beat is pounding, and Axiom’s flow locks into it with determination. The track feels like a wake-up call, balancing energy with pointed lyrics. It immediately places you inside the concept, surrounded by pressure and motion.
Don’t Step
This cut delivers raw grit. The hook is tight, the verses sharp, and the message is clear: know your place, respect boundaries, or get pushed back. It’s direct and unfiltered, one of the hardest punches on the album.
Glyph (feat. ZERO Wan-Kenobi)
With ZERO Wan-Kenobi on board, “Glyph” becomes a standout collaboration. The verses play off each other seamlessly, bringing different tones and perspectives that elevate the track. The production has an edge too, echoing like signals across deep waters.
Shania Price
This track slows things down and digs into personal reflection. There’s a bittersweet quality in both delivery and production, making it one of the most vulnerable moments on the record. It lingers long after it ends.
Mud
As the title suggests, “Mud” feels heavy and thick. The beat drags with purpose and Axiom rides it with verses that cut through the weight. It’s a song about struggle and persistence, grounded in raw honesty.
Catacombs
Dark and shadowy, “Catacombs” is one of the most atmospheric tracks. The beat creeps, the vocals lean close, and the imagery paints a picture of hidden tunnels and buried truths. It’s chilling and gripping all at once.
Grit
A sharp burst of resilience, “Grit” is the record’s declaration of strength. The flow is relentless, the beat steady, and the message unwavering. It’s one of the clearest showcases of Axiom’s ability to blend raw rap with conceptual depth.
Full-Tilt
This track kicks up the pace with high energy and rapid delivery. It feels like breaking through resistance, bursting forward without hesitation. Andy Idaho’s production shines here, carrying the urgency all the way through.
StrEEt Cypher (feat. ZERO Wan-Kenobi, Clev Speech)
This cypher track is pure fire. The features bring their A-game, stacking verse after verse with personality and punch. It’s the most communal moment on the album, giving the spotlight to multiple voices without losing cohesion.
Highgrade Mindstate (feat. ZERO Wan-Kenobi)
Another collaboration with ZERO Wan-Kenobi, “Highgrade Mindstate” is a hypnotic track that balances sharp verses with a hazy, immersive beat. It captures both focus and drift, showing off another side of the album’s sonic world.
Homage
Closing with reflection, “Homage” ties the project together with a nod to those who paved the way. It’s thoughtful and heartfelt, leaving listeners with a sense of respect and continuity. It ends the journey on a grounded, sincere note.
Final Thoughts
Merfolk Space Program is more than a record; it’s an experience. Axiom ThaWyze and Andy Idaho take risks by building a full sonic world, but they keep it relatable with grounded storytelling and raw hip hop grit. It’s a project that invites repeat listens, because each track uncovers something new in both its concept and craft.
