Cities Aviv

Gavin Mays (born 1989), better known by his stage name Cities Aviv, is an American rapper and record producer, based in Memphis, Tennessee.

Biography

Prior to his career as a rapper, Mays was a lead singer of a Memphis-based hardcore punk band, Copwatch. During his involvement with the band, he began experimenting with hip hop music, eventually leaving grade school to make a full leap into the genre. In 2011, he released his debut mixtape, Digital Lows, which received rave reviews from music publications such as Pitchfork and Spin.

In 2012, he released his follow-up mixtape, Black Pleasure through streetwear company Mishka NYC's record label before signing to Young One Records. He released the "URL IRL" single and his debut album Come to Life on Young One imprint, in 2013 and 2014 respectively.

Musical style

Cities Aviv is known for his eclectic production style. His songs sample various artists of different genres. His influences include Big Pun, Non Phixion, DOOM, Black Moon, and soul music, as well as rock music acts Joy Division and Deftones. Critics also noted post-punk influences on his works, accompanied by lyrical references to Joy Division and Psychic TV.

Cities Aviv's rapping style and flow was compared to those of RZA and MC Ride of Death Grips.

Discography

Studio albums

• Come to Life (2014)
• Your Discretion Is Trust (2015)

Mixtapes

• Digital Lows (2011)
• Black Pleasure (2012)

Singles

• "Coastin'" (2011)
• "Wet Dream" (2011)
• "Flew Your Gold" (2012)
• "I Want All" (2012)
• "URL IRL" (2013)

Guest appearances

• Lushlife - "She's a Buddhist, I'm a Cubist" from Plateau Vision (2012)
• Knifefight - "Torn Victor" from Knifefight (2013)
• Mr. Flash - "Number One" from Sonic Crusader (2014)
• Mykki Blanco - "Moshin in the Front" from Gay Dog Food (2014)

Productions

• Antwon - "During Mimis" from Heavy Hearted in Doldrums (2014)

External links

• Cities Aviv on Bandcamp
• Cities Aviv discography at Discogs