Review: “Rhythm and Vybes: Book 2 Side” Album by xDMWDx
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Trenton, NJ duo xDMWDx sculpt infectious anthems on the tender inviting sound of “Rhythm & Vybes: Book 2 Side”. R&B and hip-hop, all within a pop framework go for a strong sense of purpose. The loveliness works wonders for their delivery has a power to it, and much care and compassion run through the collection.
A lush, luxurious approach simply washes over the listener for xDMWDx’s ear for melody proves to be unparalleled. By adding layer upon layer into the mix, things become delightfully ornate resulting in some gorgeous moments. Vocals go for the right amount of passion and fire for there is a yearning that reigns supreme over the album’s six songs.
The gentle spirit and reflection recall early Kanye West. With the swagger heavily in tow, the songs burst forth in such colorful highly detailed ways. Full of such a thoughtfulness to them they all perfectly come together to accurately depict a life lived to the absolute fullest. A hybrid approach and the insistence upon a more pop oriented focus also draws from those Southern rap innovators Outkast, for their influence emerges in small yet significant ways, from the hook-laden choruses to the laid-back mellowed grooves. The duo’s deliveries at times also have the effortless cool of Q-Tip.
“Go Getter” starts the album off with kinetic energy. Various jumpy percussion skitters about while the piece has a compact, joyous attitude. Neon-hued glowing synthesizers weave themselves on the communal fervor of “Mamacita”. The grandeur of “Ain’t Gon Lie” serves as the highlight. Deserving to be blasted at the highest possible volume there is a physicality to it, with the bass running through with an emotional impact.
The tropical flavored “In2u” resonates as a sundrenched, summery jam. Here the sound has a playfulness to it. “Murder By A Masterpiece” delves into a jazzy inflection for the piece unfurls at its own pace. Slowing things down, “Unrequited (Frozen Emotion)” brings things to a stylish, soothing close with a fantastic finale as the kaleidoscopic color delves into a cinematic flavor.
xDMWDx’s “Rhythm & Vybes: Book 2 Side” project displays an impressive storytelling ability, featuring some fresh flows and wonderful character studies. We can’t wait for the third release of this album series!