With only three solo singles under his belt, AFKAP—the artist formally known as Panini—has nevertheless made a big impact on the desi hip-hop scene. In a crowd of braggadocious rappers, the MC stands out thanks to his real, reflective free verses. On his first EP, Parat, he broods over balancing familial obligations and artistic pursuits while demonstrating that it’s the weight of the words—not the volume of the delivery—that holds the greatest force. AFKAP breaks form on “Sookhi”, however, as he combines speedy verses and a sticky hook, letting us know he’s up for any challenge.