billy woods, one half of the rap duo Armand Hammer, noticed strange signs advertising diabetic test strips during a walk in his Brooklyn neighborhood. These signs were targeting uninsured individuals who couldn't afford the full retail price of the test strips. This sight gave woods insight into the underground economies that exist in New York City. He described the city as having many layers of life piled on top of each other, with hidden doorways waiting to be discovered.
Armand Hammer, consisting of woods and his collaborator Elucid, has built a career around telling stories about the false promise of the American Dream. Their latest album, "We Buy Diabetic Test Strips," released on September 29, explores how Americans navigate an economic system that has been shattered by the pandemic. The album captures the duo's ability to speak to communities that have been forgotten by the mainstream.
Armand Hammer's music combines the heartbreak of poverty and the despair of racism, resulting in intense and strangely romantic lyrics. Their songs touch on themes such as capitalism, gentrification, and the constant pressure of the state. This places them in the tradition of underground hip-hop label Definitive Jux from the late '90s, as well as figures like Jimmy Breslin, Spike Lee, and John Steinbeck.
billy woods is a rapper known for his political knowledge and powerful delivery. He grew up in Washington, D.C., and later moved to Zimbabwe before returning to the United States. This experience of crossing worlds shaped his sense of displacement, the effects of colonialism, and his approach to music. Elucid, on the other hand, hails from Jamaica, Queens, and comes from a musical background. He developed his intricate lyrics and captivating delivery in Crown Heights.
The collaboration between woods and Elucid began in 2013 with their album "Race Music." Since then, they have released four acclaimed albums together. Their most recent album, "Haram," produced by the Alchemist, received critical acclaim for its jazzy and colorful sound. "We Buy Diabetic Test Strips," their latest release, returns to their trademark chaotic and direct style.
Both Elucid and woods have successful solo careers, but they have also found success together as Armand Hammer. Collaborating with Elucid has made woods a better artist, and after ten years together, Elucid believes that woods has become an even greater songwriter.
Reflecting on their journey, Elucid acknowledges that when they started, it was difficult for rap acts to book shows and doors were often closed. However, they have come a long way since then.
woods's Backwoodz Studioz label has grown significantly, attracting talented artists and securing distribution deals with notable independent labels. Now, the duo is preparing for a worldwide tour.
Despite their growing success, woods remains humble and prefers to keep a low profile. He only gets recognized in public once a year, and he doesn't believe that fame should affect his principles. He wants people to pay attention to his art rather than seeking recognition on the streets.
