Review: "Nowhere Fast" Single by Phil NDL
Check out our in-depth review of @philndl DOPE new single “Nowhere Fast”.
Phil NDL. A fellow friend and producer of Dominic Fike. What a guy. I’ve been fortunate enough to speak with him personally.
He’s a great dude. Honest and cool.
But aside from his personnel, his music speaks for itself. On November 13th, Phil released his newest single, “Nowhere Fast”.
An instant jam. For me, it took me back to my youth. The idea of sunshine, friends, and freedom.
It’s that time you and your friends get dropped off at the mall. Just you and your friends. You give a middle-school-angst-induced-attitude goodbye wave to your mom. You plant your feet sturdy on the pavement the mall parking lot, and you’re on your way to freedom.
You gather your troops and head to the store which holds your coolness, highness, and self-worth: Hollister. And with all due respect, for a girl from the Maryland, Hollister was the coolest store there ever could be, ever.
Why? Because Hollister captured the idea of juvenile freedom. It did! You could see the store from ions away! AND you could smell it! Hollister stood for freedom. The kick off your shoes and run through the sand type of freedom! Forget your problems and live in the present and have fun!
That’s where this song takes me personally.
And though I’ve only been to the store, and not the physical location. I imagine that the store is exactly what it’s like in Hollister, California.
I can’t put my finger on what it is about this song, that takes me back. But if I had to guess I think it comes down to two distinguished features: the funk of the electric guitar, paired with the subtle and naturally fun riff, topped with Phil’s swangy tonality.
It’s the slurred notes into the next. It’s how the back-beat hits perfectly in between the lyrics.
Phil NDL has a particular and peculiar cadence of beats. Similarly, to Jon Bellion. The same way that Bellion curates his songs to fit perfectly snug between beat pockets. Phil NDL has that same gift; the ability to create movement throughout this song.
It’s nice.
Phil NDL, I am forever grateful that I get to review your work. What a fantastic way to grow both of our careers, and I’m excited I get to be a part of your journey.
Review: "Shadows" Single by Reptile Room
Atlanta based electro pop trio @reptileroomatl recently released their latest single “Shadows”, which captures the initial reaction to change; and not only the idea of change, but the unsettling, uneasy, and honest feelings around it.
Atlanta based electro pop trio Reptile Room released their latest single “Shadows” on November 13th. This single captures the initial reaction to change; and not only the idea of change, but the unsettling, uneasy, and honest feelings around it.
“now I think I’m drowning”
“this is how we live now”
Obviously, every song is up for interpretation. But I’d say that this song shines light on the immense pressure that an artist feels when they’re first stepping into their own success.
Reptile Room released their first EP in 2017, titled “Reptile Room” and have gained massive following ever since. Their song “Control” was featured on SYFY’s original series “Magician”.
The song is titled “Shadows”. Both used here metaphorically and literally room. Reptile Room sings:
“Shadows on the hotel walls
Lightning, dancing through the windows
Voices echo through the halls
And I can’t sleep at all”
I think that this was all part of the horrific change that was happening. I think that this lyric speaks truth to the unease of being a touring artist. The give and go, push and pull of the lifestyle. And, quite literally I feel as though that time actually happened. Trying to fall asleep, you don’t know what time it is, people are awake and you hear people, but you literally can’t sleep. That’s scary.
Room goes on to say:
“it’s 4:03, Germany. I can’t sleep it’s been weeks”
I think this lyrics speaks truth to the nature of the lifestyle.
However, I don’t believe that these lyrics are purposed to antagonize. And you can feel that, as a listener. The song is well balanced with its lyrics and; sonically, its rhythmic tones. The song narrates itself in the form of a short story. It’s not a scary story. It’s an honest one, with the uncomfortable feelings involved with change. It’s acceptance. Opening the door and letting “it” in, whatever that may be.
Reptile Room creates a beautiful story about the acceptance of change. And, what a good reminder to all of us during this time of discomfort. Where everything seems to be changing every second of every day. The artists leave us with this.
“this is how we live now
This is how it feels now”
A brutally honest statement of truth. And to Reptile Room, thank you, for your humbling reminder.
Review: "What Could Possibly Go Wrong" Album by Dominic Fike
Check out our exclusive review of the “What Could Possibly Go Wrong" album by rap artist @DominicFike
Three nights at the motel
Under streetlights
In the city of palms
You hear that one chorus and you’re immediately brought back to all those nights you went out. You hear it at the pregame, then, when you’re driving to the bar you hear it again, then, you’re at the bar and you hear it again, and again. And again. You never got sick of it! “3 Nights” by Dominic Fike.
“3 Nights” is what put Fike on the map! It was ranked number 1 in the US, and went platinum in the US, the UK, and New Zealand. AND went double platinum in Canada, and 5x Platinum in Australia. Quite some success from just a hometown Naples boy.
Dominic Fike is so good at creating music that appeals to my generation of 20 some-year-olds. I think in a sense it feels like we grew up together. Why? Because he’s growing up too, and we’re all trying to figure this life stuff out together.
Dominic Fike, age 24, grew up in the great state of Florida. Where he started playing music from the ripe age of 10. His love for music and production grew, and grew, and GREW.
At age 17, Fike was put on house arrest, which later developed into some prison time. Luckily for him, during his time in house arrest he had plenty of time to focus on his music; a creative outlet. Well, that creative outlet turned out pretty amazingly for him. Because guess what happened with all of that music? It was released on SoundCloud, and labels fought tirelessly through a bidding war. The war ended with a $4 million signed deal to Columbia Records.
… and “3 Nights”? That’s the one! A single from his 2018 album: “Don’t Forget About Me, Demos”; that’s what put this young rapper on the map.
Now, fast forward to July 31st of 2020. Fike releases his second debut album titled “What Could Possibly Go Wrong”. A relatively introspective album exploring a lot of Fike’s anxieties and insecurities. Although, my favorite song is Track 7, “Chicken Tenders”. A song about the push and pull of a causal relationship.
“But, why do you love it???”, you ask. Because it’s formulaically a pop track. But it’s a pop song done really, really well! I love firstly, how quickly the song grabs you. It’s a song that starts with the chorus, and those are always really fun. You just feel like you’re thrown in the middle of the dance circle at Coachella. Additionally, but not limited to... it’s a song called CHICKEN TENDERS. That’s so fun! And what’s more relatable than chicken tenders?! Everybody loves chicken tenders!! Although in an interview with BBC, Fike clearly states that he “[prefers] chicken nuggets to tenders, that’s just a fact”.
Another reason I love this song is because one of my homies from high school did some engineering on the majority of the tracks from the album. So, big shout outs to Ryan Dulude. Keep representing Chapel Thrill.
Stream and Share “What Could Possibly Go Wrong” on Spotify
Review: "Thoughts in the Belfry" Album by The Supposed So
Check out our review of the newly released album by The Supposed So, entitled “Thoughts in the Belfry”.
Grab your tea and your coziest blanket and cozy up near a fire. Worcester, Massachusetts based singer-songwriter Michael McGuire, also known as The Supposed So, captures the true essence of live folk instrumentation on his new album “Thoughts in the Belfry”.
The Supposed So uses his production skills to explore some of the deep philosophies within, somewhat similar to that of Nahko and the Medicine for the People. These are talented artists who understand some of the harsh realities of life and are able to bring a lot of beauty and tribute to the lessons learned.
The album begins with “Gloria”, led by a soft acoustic guitar. Each pluck and strum, transports the listener on this journey of the mourning of love. A feeling lifted from that of sorrow- “How I wonder where the lonely people are”. As if saying, “I cannot be the only one who feels this way.” Solidarity.
“Fumblin’ Still” takes you to that backyard summer barbecue with your favorite friends. Kids running around. There’s a slip n’ slide somewhere. Everyone’s cheerful and happy. Smell of burgers and beer in the air. A waft of cigar smoke. A reminder to us adults, the importance of our innocence. And, the acceptance of our mistakes. The acceptance of imperfection.
On the nine songs of “Thoughts in the Belfry”, The Supposed So captures the importance of life. He uses his acoustic guitar to guide his songs, taking the listener on a journey through life with him, and we have thoroughly enjoyed the ride. And you definitely will too.
Stream and Share “Thoughts in the Belfry” on: Bandcamp | Spotify
Review: "Here For Now" Album by Louis the Child
Louis the Child released their latest album ‘Here for Now’ earlier this summer. This album creates this energy and nature of the feeling of arrival, or coming into existence: a welcoming. Welcoming humans. As if our earth was starting over again.
Louis the Child (Robby Hauldren and Freddy Kennett) released their latest album ‘Here for Now’ on June 26th; a 14-song track list. It’s crazy. This album creates this energy and nature of the feeling of arrival, or coming into existence: a welcoming. Welcoming humans. As if our earth was starting over again.
‘Here For Now’ plays out like a How-to-Human simulation for dummies of the 21st century. Teaching humans how to live presently, how to be a person, and how to navigate love. Some seemingly simple attributes to being a characteristically good person.
The whole album embodies this theme, but we’ll narrow it down to the 3 major songs that explore these ideals; starting with Track 4: “Little Things”.
“Little Things”, produced beautifully by the amazingly talented Jon Bellion, and brought to life with vocals from Chelsea Cutler and Quinn XCII (team visionary music group’s greatest). The first lesson of this guide: how to live presently. “Little Things”…A song about appreciating, just that.
“And there will be come when a time when we’re slowin’ down
We’ll hold onto memories, memories
‘Til then, let’s wreck shit and hold it down”
It’s simple. All we have to do is, SLOW DOWN, as humans were so focused on What’s next? What’s trending? Who’s doing what? And Who’s going where? A reminder to live in the moment, and not worry about what’s going to happen next.
Then, at the end of the song you have this beautiful outro:
It’s like the professor at the end of class “okay, class you are free to go! But just remember…”
“Every single second is golden
Hold on to the moment
Hold on to the moment”
It’s such pure advice. It’s just the little things...
Now, that you have mastered the concept of gratitude, you will now learn the ins-and-outs of being a person and feeling emotions with Track 7: “Don’t Mind”. What this track does, is it explores the ideas of pressure, and feeling the need to exist for something or someone else. It’s a conversation with yourself. Hearing all of the stressors and then reacting positively to it. This song teaches you how to take care of yourself when you feel like the weight of the world is on your shoulders.
You hear the outside world telling you:
“Don’t mind
Don’t waste no time
Don’t make no lie
Don’t break no promises”
You hear the entire world just telling you “Don’t”. So, what do you do?
Just take a step back and tell yourself, all you have to do is:
“ [Try] to get to brighter days
You don't have to feel okay
It's okay
No you don't have to try
To try, to try to change it”
And! …
“No you don't have to wear
All these faces ”
*deep breath* and let it go.
The next challenge of the simulation is a much harder one to grasp: love.
Track 9: Get Together.
“We've got to get ourselves together
Like what's it gonna be?”
I think that the lesson here is embedded; open to interpretation. Because, can you actually teach someone how to love? Sure. Maybe, but I think the lesson here is that sometimes you just have to let the love run its course. And that’s it. That’s all you can do.
Louis the Child uses this album to shine light on some of the intricacies of the human existence, that often (too often), get overshadowed. Appropriately titled “Here For Now”, a reminder to all of us humans that we are literally only here… for now. We only borrow time on this planet, so let’s not waste it and at least try to be better.
Louis the Child starts the album with what I picture as a spaceship preparing to arrive on a new planet... and ends with Track 14: “Fade Away”. A full circle apparatus of our lives. This song is a celebration. Because, we did it, and at the end of our time on our earth, when we cease to exist on this planet, what will happen to us?
Stream and Share “Here For Now” on Spotify
Review: "Folklore" Album by Taylor Swift
Taylor Swift has always been characteristically good at being able to tell stories; not only through her poetic writing but also through her production. However, Taylor Swift’s ‘Folklore’ takes her storytelling to the next level: making her an elitist of telling stories.
On July 24th of 2020 in the middle of the corona virus pandemic Taylor Swift surprised fans with her album ‘Folklore’.
‘Folklore’ demonstrates how prolific of a story teller Swift is. Swift has always been characteristically good at being able to tell stories; not only through her poetic writing but also through her production. However, Taylor Swift’s ‘Folklore’ takes her storytelling to the next level: making her an elitist of telling stories. ‘Folklore’ reveals an imaginative scene out of her own self-produced artistry, just like a movie. Making Taylor Swift not only a writer and musician, but also a fantastic director. The thing makes this album different than others in her discography is the flow of her albums. Swift’s albums tend to tell a story, with a beginning, middle, and end. But I’ve spent time with this album, and the take away is that this isn’t a whole story. It’s a scene.
But first, as listeners and audience members, we have to understand the groundwork for this album…
A folklore. What is a folklore? Well, according to Google, folklore is “the traditional beliefs, customs, and stories of a community, passed down through generations by word of mouth”. Wow, so as listeners, we are expecting exactly that. A sample from Swift’s repertoire of life experiences.
But from what I understand, Swift uses this album to share not only her folklores but also those of close friends and family. One song, one story unto the next, opening the scene with its first story: “the 1”, which embodies the nostalgia of a lost relationship.
As soon as the first second of this song plays, you’re weightlessly carried to that late-night campfire with your dearest friends. The smell of firewood interwoven into your cardigan, and the humming sounds of the night time insects. You’re invited in, with unencumbered love and unconditional peace. Everyone gathered in an energy bliss, sharing their honest vulnerabilities. One story blending into another. Laughter, tears, fears, and love all roaming within.
‘Folklore’, is exactly this place. A campfire with your best friends: bliss. A place to be reflective about your past relationships as well as those around you, a place to have unapologetic vulnerability, and a place where your stories are heard.
Swift as well as her co-writers (Jack Antonoff, Aaron Dessner, Bon Iver, Justin Vernon and so many other talented artists) all have ‘Folklore’ as a place to share some of their own personal insecurities like “Betty”. A song written by Swift and William Bowery (who is believed to be Swift’s brother under pseudonym). A confession: a song written as an apology for how William once treated a girl: betty. ‘Folklore’ gives a place for these insecurities and stories to belong: a safe place.
And what safer place than a campfire?
Swift chooses her co-writers and producers wisely. Handpicking those best in the folk industry. The best at capturing exactly what the atmosphere of this campfire of folklores would be like. Swift’s album ‘Folklore’ is impressive in its ability to capture the true grit of their stories; targeting the real, raw emotion involved in these stories. Swift’s ‘Folklore’ is an album that is beautiful, and Swift should receive accolades on her ability to bring life to these stories and place them into an album.
Stream and Share “Folklore” on Spotify
Review: "ADJUSTER" Album by ADJUSTER
Check out our in-depth review of the newly released, self-titled debut album by Australian power-trio @adjusterband.
ADJUSTER, a band based out of Alice Springs, Australia, brings a unique and eclectic sound to the genre of rock. The power-trio is made of three key players: Thomas Cox on guitar, Brodie Miller on bass, and Rob Ward on drums. The combo of these guys brings an eclectic pace to the sound of rock. Their debut album, self-titled album, features a total of 8 new tracks, all with vastly unique and intriguing song titles.
Though their songs do not have lyrics, ADJUSTER are experts at translating experiences into sounds. Their artistically titled songs definitely set the tone, with some of my personal favorites being “STEVE’S EGG” (Track 3), lead single, “WIPE IT UP WITH A TOWEL” (Track 5), and “GODORN IS A MORMON” (Track 7). Though hilariously intriguing, the band uses blends of smooth electric guitar, powerful, heavy drums, and deep melodic bass to explore some of these unique memories.
ADJUSTER’s sound overall represents living freely, living life to the fullest, and having a good time. Thomas Cox, Brodie Miller, and Rob Ward do an amazing job of creating music that helps you escape to their Australian paradise without hopping on a plane.
Not only do these guys have their sound and wit that makes them unique, but they also have the mind and ideas of the creative producer Dave Crowe who adds extra spice their overall sound.
Stream and Share “ADJUSTER” on: Spotify | Bandcamp | Soundcloud
Review: "From the Rooftop" EP by Rob Benny
@robbennymusic debut solo EP, “From the Rooftop”, in 3 words is: raw, honest, and strong. Rob Benny uses his EP to share some of life’s hardest lessons of letting go, changing, moving on, and dealing with sadness. Read our in-depth review of “From the Rooftop” now.
Rob Benny’s debut EP, “From the Rooftop”, in 3 words is: raw, honest, and strong. Rob Benny uses his EP to share some of life’s hardest lessons of letting go, changing, moving on, and dealing with sadness. His EP is self-produced with simplicity. He uses the authentic grit of the guitar and the soothing melodies of the piano to share his vulnerabilities; unfiltered.
In the first track, “Start Again”, Rob captures the initial steps of growth; he expresses the act of learning how to leave behind the lethargy and take the first steps towards making a change for the better. The first lyric of the song is “I am tired of feeling so sorry”… what an honest feeling. Rob does an incredible job of taking these feelings (that are typically kept in the dark) and bringing them to light. I think as humans, we all have felt sorrow at some point but never fully discussed them or shared them. Rob shares these feelings with full fearlessness: true vulnerability.
Rob Benny’s EP can be found on Bandcamp, where you will find 3 amazing songs: “Start Again”, “Endearment”, and “In my Veins”. His theme is continued throughout the EP: growth, facing diversities, and letting go.
Rob Benny’s “From the Rooftop” shares times in his life, where it was seemingly at its worst and pairs it with the natural and simple instrumentation of guitar and piano.
Stream and Share “From the Rooftop” on Bandcamp
Review: "Vain Endeavors" Album by Arson Wayne
Arson Wayne, a Denver based singer-songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist, recently released his debut album “Vain Endeavors”, which explores and articulates the facets of “philosophical nihilism”. Check out our in-depth review for the album.
Arson Wayne, a Denver based singer-songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist, recently released his debut album “Vain Endeavors”, which explores and articulates the facets of “philosophical nihilism”. Contrary to its connotation, Arson uses his music to ponder some of life’s simplicities with raw, fun, folky-rock n’ roll, energy.
Simply put, Arson is an impeccable artist. His use of layered chord progressions speaks volumes to the overall message of each song on the “Vain Endeavors” album and portrays the true elements of rock n’ roll.
In addition, Arson’s an excellent drummer. The authentic sound of his raw kick drum makes his music distinct from other rock artists because he doesn’t exaggerate them with heaviness, yet, he finds balance perfect within the beats.
Track 6 of “Vain Endeavors”, “Never Seen You Dance” takes you back to that one dive bar that your friends took you to. You were skeptical at first, but then, the simple, and upbeat guitar riff picks you up off your feet and onto the dance floor; falling in love with the simplistic bliss of rock n’ roll.
Throughout the “Vain Endeavors” album, Arson’s ability to translate the theme of “philosophical nihilism” within the rock n’ roll genre is remarkable. Additionally, his skill set with numerous instruments shines through on this album, which allows him to reach others even outside of a typical rock fan.
DCWS highly recommends Arson’s “Vain Endeavors” album, and you can rock out to it right now below on Spotify. You can also check out our exclusive interview with Arson HERE.
Stream and Share “Vain Endeavors” on Spotify
"A Hymn" by Khruangbin is DOPE Because...
We first became aware of “A Hymn” by @Khruangbin through the @JayElectronica song “A.P.I.D.T.A.”, the last track on his recently released debut album “A Written Testimony”. “A Hymn” is DOPE because…
We first became aware of Khruangbin’s “A Hymn” through Jay Electronica’s song “A.P.I.D.T.A.” , the last track you’ll hear on his recently released debut album “A Written Testimony”.
After listening to “A.P.I.D.T.A.”, we went to Wikipedia to find out who produced it. From that search, we discovered the Houston based 3-piece band Khruangbin and their song “A Hymn”, which is DOPE because…
…it transports you to your own secret island getaway. Additionally, it incorporates the happiest and most blissful sounds. When you listen to this song, you’re immediately engulfed into a magical paradise land. The riffs of the electric guitar alone, pull you, melodically into the island breeze.
Soft sounds of the shaker release any stress that was attached to you. Then, you’re greeted with a warm smile and a tropical, fruity, delicious drink. You enjoy the peacefulness of the island and then, you hear the truest, and most pure sound of humanity: a child’s laughter. Releasing you back from the island and into reality. Arriving you safely to the ones who are held closest to your heart. A sweet serenity of a sendoff. It’s as if the island says “Thanks for you coming and we hope to see you soon, namaste”.
Khruangbin’s “A Hymn” is DOPE because it takes you to the happiest part of your soul. “A Hymn” is track 8 on their 2018 album titled “Con Todo El Mundo”, which literally translates to “with everyone”. Thus, making this song, holistic and inclusive in its entirely. Not only does this song transport you to your secret getaway, but it brings you closer… with everyone.
Stream and Share “Con Todo El Mundo” on: Spotify | Apple Music