Picture this: it’s a rainy evening in Chicago, you’re cozied up with a warm drink, and the smoothest lo-fi house track starts playing, pulling you into a dreamy, laid-back groove. That’s exactly the vibe Flapjaques and Satin Sage deliver with their track How It Feels. This collaboration is a perfect slice of Chicago’s lo-fi scene, blending the hazy, nostalgic charm of lo-fi hip-hop with the pulsing, danceable energy of house music. If you’re into beats that make you want to nod your head while losing yourself in thought, this one’s for you. Let’s dive into what makes this track a must-listen and why Flapjaques is a name to watch in the lo-fi world.
A Deep Dive into “How It Feels”
How It Feels is a masterclass in balancing lo-fi’s signature imperfections with house music’s infectious rhythm. The track kicks off with a warm, crackling vinyl hiss—think of that cozy sound you’d hear spinning a record from the ‘90s. Flapjaques, a Chicago-based lo-fi hip-hop producer, brings his knack for crafting instrumental beats that feel both intimate and expansive. The production is layered with jazzy chord progressions and a slightly warped, tape-saturated texture, giving it that authentic lo-fi aesthetic. Satin Sage’s contribution adds a soulful edge, with subtle melodic flourishes that weave through the track like a late-night city breeze.
The beat itself is a steady, mid-tempo groove, clocking in at around 90 BPM, which makes it versatile enough for studying, chilling, or even low-key dancing in your living room. The drum patterns are crisp yet understated, drawing from classic hip-hop influences while leaning into house’s four-on-the-floor pulse. There’s a hypnotic quality to the way the synths and samples ebb and flow, creating a soundscape that’s both relaxing and subtly energizing. It’s the kind of track you’d hear on a Chillhop Music playlist or a late-night YouTube lo-fi stream, but with a distinctly Chicago flair—gritty, soulful, and effortlessly cool.
What stands out most is the emotional depth. The title How It Feels is fitting; the track captures that fleeting, bittersweet moment when you’re reflecting on life, love, or just the vibe of the city around you. It’s not overly polished, and that’s the point—lo-fi house thrives on its raw, human quality, and Flapjaques and Satin Sage nail it. Fans of artists like DJ Seinfeld or Ross From Friends will find a lot to love here, but the track also carries the spirit of lo-fi hip-hop pioneers like J Dilla, with its loose, unquantized feel.
Flapjaques: Chicago’s Lo-Fi Authority
Flapjaques is making waves as a key player in Chicago’s lo-fi scene, and it’s easy to see why. Known for producing a diverse range of instrumental beats, he’s carved out a niche under the lo-fi umbrella, crafting tracks that fit everything from study sessions to late-night vibes. His catalog, often shared through platforms like SoundCloud and Spotify, is a treasure trove for anyone who loves the genre’s chill, unpolished aesthetic. Whether it’s for relaxing, working, or just soaking in the atmosphere, Flapjaques has a beat for every mood.
Hailing from Chicago, Flapjaques infuses his music with the city’s rich musical heritage. You can hear echoes of the city’s house music legacy—think Frankie Knuckles or Larry Heard—blended with the jazzy, soulful undertones of lo-fi hip-hop. His work with Ground Beef Radio showcases his ability to curate and create beats that resonate with a wide audience, from lo-fi purists to casual listeners. Collaborating with Satin Sage on How It Feels feels like a natural step, merging his signature sound with a fresh perspective that elevates the track to something special.
The lo-fi house scene, as a subgenre, has been gaining traction for its blend of nostalgic textures and danceable rhythms. Producers like Flapjaques are pushing the boundaries, drawing from the DIY ethos of the 1990s lo-fi movement while incorporating modern production techniques. His use of tools like the Roland SP-404 sampler, a staple in lo-fi production, adds that gritty, cassette-tape warmth that fans of the genre crave.
Why This Track Matters
How It Feels isn’t just a great track; it’s a snapshot of where lo-fi house is right now. The genre’s rise on platforms like YouTube and Spotify, fueled by 24/7 livestreams and playlists like Lo-Fi Hip Hop Radio – Beats to Relax/Study To, has created a global community of listeners who crave music that’s both functional and emotive. Flapjaques and Satin Sage tap into this perfectly, delivering a track that’s ideal for background vibes but rewarding enough for active listening.
Chicago’s influence on the track also ties it to a broader trend in the music industry. The city has long been a hub for innovative sounds, from house to hip-hop, and Flapjaques is carrying that torch into the lo-fi realm. His work reflects the DIY spirit of the genre, where imperfections like tape hiss or slightly off-kilter beats are celebrated as part of the charm. It’s music that feels personal, like it was made in a bedroom studio with nothing but passion and a good sample library.
Get Your Music Out There with DistroKid
If How It Feels has you inspired to create your own beats, there’s no better time to share your music with the world. Platforms like DistroKid make it easy for independent artists to distribute their tracks to major streaming services like Spotify, Apple Music, and SoundCloud. Whether you’re crafting lo-fi house, hip-hop, or something totally unique, DistroKid’s straightforward process lets you focus on what matters—making music. Plus, you can save 7% on your membership with this link: https://distrokid.com/vip/seven/2058328. It’s a small step that can help you reach listeners across the globe and build your own fanbase, just like Flapjaques.
Final Thoughts
Flapjaques and Satin Sage’s How It Feels is a standout in the lo-fi house scene, blending Chicago’s musical soul with the genre’s warm, nostalgic vibes. It’s a track that invites you to relax, reflect, or even dance a little, all while showcasing Flapjaques’ skill as a producer who’s helping define Chicago’s lo-fi authority. Whether you’re a longtime fan of lo-fi hip-hop or just dipping your toes into house, this track is worth a spin. Pop it on during your next study session or late-night drive and let the vibes take over.
What do you think of How It Feels? Are you digging the lo-fi house wave, or is there another Flapjaques track you’re loving? Drop your thoughts in the comments and share this post with your fellow music lovers! And if you’re an artist, don’t forget to check out that DistroKid link to kickstart your music journey.
