Review: "Forget the Days" Album by Jim Soule
Chicago singer-songwriter @jimsoulemusic embodies the power of hope on the sunny sound of “Forget the Days”. Going for a perfect slice of indie rock, the whole album possesses a thoughtfulness that reveals itself in multitudes.
Chicago singer-songwriter Jim Soule embodies the power of hope on the sunny sound of “Forget the Days”. Going for a perfect slice of indie rock, the whole album possesses a thoughtfulness that reveals itself in multitudes. Arrangements have a distinct cleverness with anthemic riffs with a sense of playfulness. Lyrics too seem to be drenched in sunlight while they tap into an optimism. The entirety of the album has a force of nature quality to it. Volume is a must for there is an undeniable allure to its desire for so much physicality.
The creative arrangements at times recall They Might Be Giants’ joyous discography. Akin to They Might Be Giants, Jim Soule goes for the unexpected at times, offering clever shifts within songs and allowing for a great deal of tenderness that radiates throughout the entirety of the whole album. Highly addictive with their insistent grooves, they draw from Spoon’s careful classic sound. Everything about this goes for that same sort of carefree attitude, while the guitars at times offer so much sheer passion as they glide on through.
A burst of intense rhythms races through on the celebratory opener “A New Brand of Fiction” with crystal clear vocals front and center. The mellowed-out vibes of “Snapshots” incorporates a bit of determination with the communal vocals further adding to the track’s emotional core. Guitars weave themselves together on the brilliant bright patterns of “Face”.
“In The End” strips the sound down to the essentials with the piano anchoring the whole song. Easily the highlight of the album comes from the urgency of “At the Wheel”. With an aptly employed driving rhythm, the piece is a whirlwind of intensely felt freedom. Reflective to its core, the tenderness of “Missed the Parade” chooses a rather lovely demeanor while it unfurls, featuring gorgeous strings in its latter half. Guitars intertwine on the western twang of “Avenue of Fears”. Neatly bringing the whole of the album to a transcendent close is “Fool’s Day”.
The triumphant “Forget the Days” album shows off Jim Soule’s deft skill in delivering a slice of truly great rock, the kind of thing that touches the very soul.
Stream and Share “Forget the Days” on Bandcamp
Review: "Music to Drown By" EP by Josh Naujokas
A wild freewheeling approach defines @JoshNaujokas emotionally charged “Music to Drown By” EP. Stylistically he opts for a mutant hybrid of twisted neo-R&B alongside element of emo, all framed within a hip-hop template, resulting in a sound uniquely his own.
A wild freewheeling approach defines Josh Naujokas’ emotionally charged “Music to Drown By” EP. Stylistically he opts for a mutant hybrid of twisted neo-R&B alongside element of emo, all framed within a hip-hop template, resulting in a sound uniquely his own. Flows are spit with pure fire for the fury of the sound proves to be unstoppable; Josh is a virtual force of nature. Lyricism goes for a sense of passion while the songs churn about. Pop references with a sense of purpose adorns the whole of the EP. Rhythms opt for a sense of swagger for they radiate a unique sense of confidence.
Josh references a great deal of artists throughout the entirety of the collection. Rhye’s defiantly weird take on R&B certainly plays a factor in terms of the EP’s otherworldly charm. With a keen ear for melody, Josh lets lyric and groove fuse together to become one. For the confessional aspect of the storytelling, Josh takes on elements of Tyler, the Creator’s stylistic flourishes. Intricately detailed, the inner thoughts and monologue gain a poignancy. Yearning, desire, and more filter into the sound adding to the dense tapestry.
“Glad!” sets the tone for what follows, as nimble crisp beats further add to the geometric quality of the sound. Snapping back and forth, the trap beat stuns. With “Ron Burgundy’s Weekend”, feat. Jonny Craig, the song struts by with such confidence. By far the highlight, there is a playfulness to the overall approach.
A great deal of spaciousness defines the colossal “Beg Your Indulgence”. Dramatic, stately chords help to anchor the whole track. Quite airy there is an echoing beauty to it. A mantra-like devotion emerges on the cycles of “Mona Lise Is Just a Stage Name”. Low-slung funk comes into the fray on the stylish noir of “Medusa Gave Me Rigor Mortis”. Within this singular track Josh’s delivery comes straight from the heart possessing a sense of urgency. Keeping things loose and ending things on a high note is the reflective “Look Out Caesar! (Freestyle)”.
The “Music to Drown By” EP crafts a timeless kaleidoscopic aura for Josh Naujokas as he incorporates so much color into the delightful mix.
Stream and Share “Music to Drown By” on Spotify
Review: "First Comes Love, Then Comes Liberty" EP by Alaina Kai Chester
NYC based actor-singer Alaina Kai Chester embodies the best of what love means on the lush “First Comes Love, Then Comes Liberty” EP. Read our review of this project now.
NYC based actor-singer Alaina Kai Chester embodies the best of what love means on the lush “First Comes Love, Then Comes Liberty” EP. Elements of pop, R&B, and soul mix into a kaleidoscopic whole and production values go for a glowing shimmering shine. Luxurious melodies waft about with a feeling of sheer determination. Percussion opts for a nimble approach as it helps to anchor everything.
By far though, the true highlight comes from the fire and passion of Alaina’s vocals. With a unique theatrical flair, everything about it has an expansive quality. Her lyrics have a perfect balance to them with every verse carefully balanced.
The expressive tact goes for a true arena-like approach. References to Beyoncé appear throughout. Like her, Alaina proves to be a true artist as a great deal of color filters into the mix. Her delivery too reflects a life lived to the fullest, as the lyrics cover concepts of faith, of navigating relationship, while offering a bit of insight into the contemporary condition. Beyond this, her multifaceted tact, the low-slung grooves and hybrid approach to songwriting recalls some of Janelle Monáe’s creativity.
Swirling and strewn asunder, the collection opens up on a majestic note with the intensely felt “Potion”. The rhythm gains a physicality as it grows and grows. “Body Worthy (Amen)” strips things down resulting in a sunnier sound, with flourishes added to the quiet contemplation of the piece. On “Wise Owl” Alaina serves up the highlight with poetic lyricism. Beats hit hard perfecting intermingling with the limber guitar riffs. A sense of introspection emerges over the course of the work resulting in a rather thoughtful ode, a desire for people to improve.
Bass worms through on the tactile “Mama Says” where volume truly is a must. Here Alaina’s vocals gain a significant power as she explores a truly meaningful relationship. “Time Won’t Erase My Love” neatly brings the collection to a close, with a feeling of grandeur that becomes all-consuming in the best way possible.
The “First Comes Love, Then Comes Liberty” EP shows off Alaina Kai Chester’s incredible chops in creating a sound that feels so visceral.
Stream and Share “First Comes Love, Then Comes Liberty” on Spotify
Review: "TRIATHLON" Album by Anthone Ray
@AnthoneRay is a Lynchburg, VA based rapper and producer whose music can be described as lyrical, energetic, wavy, smooth and diverse. He just dropped a new album titled “TRIATHLON”; check out our in-depth review of his project now!
Anthone Ray is a Lynchburg, VA based rapper and producer whose music can be described as lyrical, energetic, wavy, smooth and diverse. He just dropped his new album titled “TRIATHLON”.
I’ll tell you, the first word that comes to mind after listening to this project is “diverse”. It seems like Anthone can do it all. He produced every beat, sung every hook and rapped just about every verse. When it comes to comparing him to mainstream artists, I would say that Anthone is a solid mix between Drake and Travis Scott. I’d say his rapping mirrors Drake’s at times, however Anthone is significantly more lyrical. Also, his hooks/singing is wavy, auto tuned and extremely full which reminds me of Scott. That being said, Anthone definitely has his own unique voice and sound along with these influences.
As a rapper myself, something I appreciate about Anthone’s project is the particular type of rapping he employs. In 2020, a new brand of rapping has taken over. This type of rap is less lyric focused and more about how things sound. Anthone is clearly a student of hip-hop as his raps are full of punchlines, similes and wordplay. There were several times I found my eyes widening as I caught a certain bar. That’s the type of rap I thoroughly enjoy.
The intro track, “RELAY” is the perfect way to begin the project as it showcases all of Anthone’s abilities. The production is excellent, there are PLENTY of bars, and there’s even a section of auto tune singing. This is a personal favorite of mine.
The third track, “OUT THE GATE” is in the running for the best song on the project in my opinion. While listening to it, I made sure to make a note that said “banger”. The song would be amazing to see performed live and it’s also a song that would do well in a party setting. Maybe even just jamming out in a full car.
I have to say, I was already impressed with the production. As I was listening I said to myself that it was unique and diverse. No two beats were the same and they were all creative and well-made. Once I found out the entire project, except for “BIG TALK”, was produced by Anthone (which was after I finished listening to it), I was even more impressed with his overall talent level.
A couple more songs that stuck out to me were “LATELY FREESTYLE”, because I love to just hear an artist simply rap, and the last track, “GOLD MEDAL DREAMS” which seems to sort of tie the entire project together.
Overall this project is extremely dope and unique. It made me an instant fan of Anthone Ray and gave me a bit more hope for the future of lyrical rap. I’m excited to see what he drops next.
Stream and Share “TRIATHLON” on Spotify
Review: "KERN" EP by Ido
A brooding heavy atmosphere defines “KERN”, the newly released, self-produced EP by Dutch rap artist Ido. Check out our in-depth review of his project now.
A brooding heavy atmosphere defines “KERN”, the newly released, self-produced EP by Dutch rap artist Ido. Everything about it embraces the dark from the raw gritty flows that grace the entirety of the EP to the intense arrangements. Beats hit with such emotional fury. Lyrically masterful mood proves to be of the utmost essence from which all else flows. The tracks take their time for Ido engages in such overwhelming atmospheres throughout. Every song plays off the last making the EP best when taken in as a singular whole. Over the course of the work, a narrative begins to form one that revels in a life lived to the absolute fullest.
The stripped-down, minimal style recalls a bit of Kendrick Lamar’s “DAMN.”. Similar to that album, this EP manages to cut things down to the essentials. Everything has its own specific place. Beyond the obvious indebtedness to hip-hop, there is the intersection of elegant dubstep gestures a la James Blake that further heighten the emotional impact of the experience. Bass rumbles with a virtual physical quality. Grooves go for the deep, as they appear to be truly masterful with their flawless execution.
Morphed vocals introduce the surreal scope of “Ik Mis Je”. Percussion goes for a tactile quality for the track truly comes into focus with its threatening aura. Quite spacious, “Efteling” allows a lot of texture into the fray while Ido’s vocals have a directness to them. Surreal in its scope, “Gedachtens” serves as the highlight of the collection. Woozy samples are stretched to the breaking point with lyrics delivered with fire and passion. Quite confrontational, Ido completely lets loose on the track.
A sense of tension reigns supreme over the echoed hits of “Innerlijk Beest”. Trying a bit of determination, “Ikke Kan Niet Binden” incorporates rather gorgeous effects that waft up into the sky. Urgency ties the whole of “Panic Attack” together as the piece works itself into a frenzy. “Zero 6” ends the EP off with a slinky groove. Featuring just the right degree of reflection, everything that came before it filters into the dense mix.
Ido goes for a stark, unsettling yet uniquely his own vision on the poignant “KERN” EP. Enjoy this DOPE new project below.
Stream and Share “KERN” on Spotify
Review: "Rich Octopus" Album by Rich Octopus
A rollicking, wild, animalistic fervor defines @RichOctopus self-titled debut album. Volume is an absolute must, for these songs are true forces of nature. Read our in-depth review of "Rich Octopus" now.
A rollicking, wild, animalistic fervor defines Rich Octopus’ self-titled debut. Volume is an absolute must, for these songs are true forces of nature. Gnarled guitar riffs intermingle with unhinged rhythms to give the entirety of the “Rich Octopus” album a blurred beauty.
Best of all are the vocals which effortlessly rise above the din. Delivered with such bluntness, the lyrics have a lived-in quality to them. Everything about the album works wonders from the sheer energy behind it to the way that the album comes together as a singular whole. The band’s attention to detail feels profound for they make sure not to waste a single moment. Stylistically they are heavily versed within a mid-00s sort of pop punk ethos.
Rich Octopus’ references abound throughout the journey. Elements of New Found Glory’s unstoppable energy appear in every track. Sheer catchiness recalls a bit of Blink 182’s anthemic presence. Everything about the sound features such a strong, welcoming presence. By embracing these sorts of groups, bringing them into their overall approach the way that they simply grow feels outright majestic. Buildups are non-existent for they simply start up immediately without any fanfare or anticipation, as the album rushes through swinging.
“Monotony” sets the tone for the “Rich Octopus” album with pure jolt as they dive headfirst into the sea of sound. For “Ron Swansong” they opt for a dramatic flourish to start things up with an economical beat anchoring it. Playful to its very core is the angular guitar work of “Elysian Feels”. Sung with such earnestness is the Beck-inspired lyricism of “Scars/Pieces of Me” where it takes on a warped sort of beauty.
An ode to the disoriented bliss, “High” stuns with its sheer passion. Things spread out a bit on the dreamier “Into Space”. Distortion reigns supreme over the fuzzed-out guitars of “Saul Gucci”. By far the highlight of the album is the rollicking “Heaven Knows” with multiple layers intermingling for maximum effect. Here Rich Octopus even bring a bit of shoegaze into the fray. Perfectly closing everything on a high note is the reflective “Diversion”.
Rich Octopus’ self-titled debut is one of those joyful things, a truly cathartic experience sung straight from the heart.
Stream and Share “Rich Octopus” on: Bandcamp | Spotify
Review: "The Imperfect Storm" EP by Wale
On “The Imperfect Storm” EP, Wale deserves praise not only for speaking out, but for doing it in a creative way. He mentioned in the project that he wants to try and cheer people up. The beats that play behind these deep topics will do just that.
Wale, often known for his happy, upbeat, and poetic raps has recently switched up his tone a bit. His 2019 project, “Wow… That’s Crazy” focused a lot on the plight of black people. Now that the world has started to shine even more light on this plight, Wale felt it was the perfect time to release a project that addressed the topic more head on and in a unique way.
I believe that most will find themselves confused while listening to this for the very first time. If you don’t listen closely to the words, you may think that this project is supposed to be happy and fun. Wale uses upbeat, bouncy beats that almost make you want to dance. This is a stark contrast from the cover art which showcases a dark, empty street that is on fire.
I believe that Wale had two reasons for doing this. The first is that it shows irony. The second is that it’s a creative way to get people to hear the real issues without listening to extremely melancholy music.
In this short 18 minute project, Wale touches on topics that range from Covid-19, police brutality, needing to protect black women and how America treats people of color.
In the intro, “MOVIN’ DIFFERENT”, Wale raps over an upbeat dance beat about how in 2020, he’s having to watch the way he’s moving in order to avoid being killed. He also uses a skit to touch on how protesters have been getting attacked.
On the song “BLUE YELLOW GREEN PINK WHITE”, Wale raps over a beat that’s almost impossible not to dance to. “Blue, yellow, green, pink, white. I ain’t bout to judge a muhf*****, livin life”, he raps. A very creative way to teach the simple lesson that racism is ridiculous.
“JUNE 5th / QueenZnGodZ” is probably the track with the most serious beat and vibe. Wale touches on two serious topics. The first half of the track speaks on how he feels as a black man in America in 2020. The second half of the track is meant to edify black women and show that they’re appreciated despite how poorly they’re treated.
Wale adds skits throughout the project that shine light on the current state of America. This adds even more depth to the already heavy project. I believe that Wale deserves praise not only for speaking out, but for doing it in a creative way. He mentioned in the project that he wants to try and cheer people up. The beats that play behind these deep topics will do just that.
Stream and Share “The Imperfect Storm” on: Spotify | Apple Music
Review: "Nothing in Common" Album by Will Ryte
Mississauga, ON based rapper, producer and guitarist @willryte delivers a pristine, polished sound on the introspective “Nothing in Common” album. Read our in-depth review of this DOPE project right now.
Mississauga, ON based rapper, producer and guitarist Will Ryte delivers a pristine, polished sound on the introspective “Nothing in Common” album. Arrangements go for pure luxury for every single element has a silky-smooth quality. Nearly physical with the gorgeous low end, the songs have steady powerful bass line anchoring the whole journey.
The songs’ melodies have a warped, woozy quality to them. Drenched in darkness there is a late-night vibe that runs through the whole of the album. Sonically tied together, the way that the tracks build off each other makes it akin to a grand journey. The small details matter for the entirety of the album, going for a spacious, expansive take. Nothing ever overstays its welcome, for Will Ryte keeps things tight.
Going for a distinctly newer hip-hop style, Will Ryte draws from elements of Yung Lean’s far-off, spaced-out sound. Production too nods to Yung Lean’s early work, as does his fantastic flow. The faded approach at times draws from a weird and wonderful array of influences. For the nostalgic tact, elements of Boards of Canada’s eerie melodies permeate the pieces. On purely the beat craft, Will Ryte draws from the crisp nimble tact of Flying Lotus in terms of its sheer creativity.
A lovely open comes through on the tremendous title track “Nothing in Common” where the tempo takes on a languid contemplative tact. Lilting samples tie together the whole of the bombastic beats of “Cash Out”. Tenderness rests at the very heart of “Milli”. Verses cascade down on the energetic “Never Know, feat. K-Cuzz. Highly ornate “Looking Back”, feat. 595century, opts for a slightly tragic note.
By far the highlight of the album comes from the exploration of anxiety with “Saying Less”. Delivered with urgency, the piece swirls about in a surreal haze. Nimble percussion skitters over the whole of “Rooftops”, feat. gads6y. The hauntingly beautiful “Count on Me” features a twisted toy box melody interspersed with lyrics that tap into a bit of defiance. “December” brings the whole of the album together neatly summarizing all that came before.
The “Nothing in Common” album proves Will Ryte to be a masterful storyteller, sculpting small vignettes from a life lived to the absolute fullest. We look forward to hearing much more from this talented artist out of the Greater Toronto Area.
Stream and Share “Nothing in Common”
Review: "Spirit Animal Club-House" Album by cunabear
A hazy psychedelic sort of hip-hop anchors @cunabear dreamy “Spirit Animal Club-House” album. Check out our in-depth review of his new project now!
A hazy psychedelic sort of hip-hop anchors cunabear’s dreamy “Spirit Animal Club-House” album. Flows further incorporate the gorgeousness of the sound. Lyricism has a poetic quality with every word carefully balanced, every verse given equal weight.
cunabear takes his time making patience a powerful ally in the overall carefully sculpted mood. Every track plays off the last allowing the entire album to work best when taken in as a singular whole. Beyond the hip-hop psychedelic frame, elements of jazz, drone, and hypnagogic pop are brought together in a way that becomes powerful. Letting it all simply wash over the listener in a kaleidoscopic array of color, the attention to detail feels magnificent.
The skewed electronics and off-kilter rhythms recall at times some of Brainfeeder’s roster. Woozy with its effects and funky percussion, the playfulness taps into Thundercat’s jazz-inspired endeavors. For the more experimental side of things where cunabear truly lets it all loose, he brings a bit of Flying Lotus’s potpourri of genres. With his delivery, he brings to light some of Tyler, The Creator’s approach alongside the careful gait of Earl Sweatshirt.
Glowing tones open up the album on the instrumental “Unzip Yourself, Magic-Man! (A Beat For Big Moe, Rest In Peace)”. The metallic sheen of “Chandelier” revels in a beautiful, blissed-out shimmering sound. Lounge-like with its clever, warped vision is “Saturnalia” for the piece comes in and out of focus. A late-night noir runs through the atmospheric title track “Spirit Animal Club-House” as many layers are filtered into the mix.
Delivered with urgency is the fast-paced manic energy of “WE PARRY SPEARS! (Mobius Strip Contortion pt. 2)”. By far the highlight of the album comes from the multi-suite epic “Seizing Self-Belief” where the grooves have an infectious quality to them. The anxious energy of “Vicegrips & Broken Vessels” rushes the track forward. Done with a raw grit and soul, “Thicker Than Thieves” brings some field recordings into the fray. Forgoing lyrics for the finale “Free-Forming”, the album ends on a reflective note.
The “Spirit Animal Club-House” album shows cunabear sculpt a lovely, soothing world, one whose surreal quality reveals an entire aural universe to explore.
Stream and Share “Spirit Animal Club-House” on Spotify
Review: "But He is Strong" EP by Rep and Tramel
The newly released “But He Is Strong” EP shows off the impressive duality of @repm516 and Tramel in crafting a sound that both pays homage to hip-hop’s history while pointing to its future.
Rep and Tramel spits furious verses on the powerful “But He Is Strong” EP. With a keen sense of determination and defiance, the EP’s six tracks verge into a singular whole. Akin to a grand journey, the constant shifts of grooves, tempos, and textures lend the whole of the collection a spirit of constant reinvention. Stylistically heavily versed in hip-hop, they draw from elements of EDM, pop, trance, jazz, and a whole multitude. This helps to keep the flows fresh for they can turn on a dime. Rep and Tramel recall at times the nimble delivery of Q-Tip, right down to the unique way the grooves are assembled and disassembled with the utmost of ease.
The main reference within the collection borrows heavily from A Tribe Called Quest’s versatile output. Akin to their work, Rep and Tramel make sure to keep the listener guessing. Mixing humor with poignant insight, the lyricism becomes an unexpected joy, with verses carefully balanced for maximum impact.
Beyond this, Rep and Tramel incorporate bits and pieces from Kendrick Lamar’s assured take, proving to be deft storytellers as entire lives come into the fray. Production stuns thanks to the incredible work of True Justice and MNPLY, both of whom sculpt impeccable kaleidoscopic arrangements that refuse to stand still.
Samples rest at the very heart of the incredible opener “Mighty Men” where the mood is set, as everything swirls about. A weird woozy disposition radiates throughout the whole of the surreal “Fight Clubs XOXO”, where the skeletal snares add to the potency of the track. A swagger informs the entirety of “Watching Tsunamis” which serves as the very heart and soul of the entire collection.
Incredible energy defines the aptly named “Motivated” as the sheer physicality of the work overwhelms. Creaky, eerie samples and synthesizers weave themselves together in a fantastic portrait on the alluring “Hulk”. Tactile effects work wonders on the collection finale of “I’m A Monster” which neatly ties all that came before it together.
“But He Is Strong” shows off the impressive duality of Rep and Tramel in crafting a sound that both pays homage to hip-hop’s history while pointing to its future.
Stream and Share “But He is Strong” on Spotify
Review: "Algedonic" Album by The BlueStocking
Moscow based rock quintet The BlueStocking offers a darkly beautiful theatrical ode with their debut album “Algedonic”. With a distinctly cabaret-like flavor, the songs churn intensely.
Moscow based rock quintet The BlueStocking offers a darkly beautiful theatrical ode with their debut album “Algedonic”. With a distinctly cabaret-like flavor, the songs churn intensely. Stylistically they draw from elements of jazz, cinema, progressive rock, and elements of improvisation thrown in for good measure.
Everything feels positively alive thanks in part to The BlueStocking’s fiery delivery. Instrumentally rich, the sheer number feels absolutely awe inspiring. Guitar riffs ring true as saxophones scream out into the air. Of course, the true unifying force of this entire journey is the power of the vocals which have a commanding presence. Lyrics are sung with urgency, propelling these tracks forward in a majestic manner.
Influences abound throughout the “Algedonic” album. The Dresden Dolls appears to be influential on their sound and style, for, like them, The BlueStocking goes for a bewilderingly dark noirish quality. For the less obvious, they choose the theatrical oddities of Mr. Bungle. Akin to that group, The BlueStocking refuses to be easily pigeonholed while they mess with tempo, rhythm, even style within a single song. All of it works wonders for the kaleidoscopic rush of color feels palpable, as the whole of the album has a gracious, lovely hue to it.
Setting things off on a high note is the tremendous wave of “Rhyme” where the song transforms itself into an absolute frenzy. “OCD” goes for a chaotic flair, with the piano playing emphasizing a sense of loss. By far the highlight the way the vocals, guitar riffs, and horns merge into a stream of consciousness stuns. Emotionally fraught, “Bulletinawallet” opts for an angular approach, for they draw from some of post-punk’s vigor.
Nods to a rambunctious jazz wafts into the air on “Never Ready”. Wonderful guitars emerge on the dreamy vibes of “Well” with everything going for a blissed-out style. “Awakening” has a righteous defiant stride to it while the rhythms ring true. Stripped down to the essentials, “Don’t Look Back” has a more intimate approach, going for something that feels subdued. Ambitious and sprawling the feral energy of “Look at My Face” brings the “Algedonic” album to a gracious finale.
The “Algedonic” album delivers a gorgeous celebratory procession, one that shows off The BlueStocking’s stark uncompromising vision.
Stream and Share “Algedonic”
Review: "Subglorious Songs For Subpar People" EP by Vogue Villains
The Vancouver Island, BC based alt-rock band @vogueillains craft an impeccable decadent world with the “Subglorious Songs for Subpar People” EP for those who love their punk with just a hint of glam.
The Vancouver Island, BC based alt-rock band Vogue Villains craft an impeccable decadent world with “Subglorious Songs for Subpar People” for those who love their punk with just a hint of glam. A truly physical sound from the colossal riffs to the force of nature quality of the drums, the EP’s six songs deserve to be blasted.
Sly slinky grooves roll through the whole of the EP giving it a wild, unhinged sound. By far though, the true heart and soul of the EP comes from the fire and passion of the vocals. Lyrics are delivered with an unhinged, feral spirit to it. Layer upon layer filters into the mix with such flawlessness.
There’s a lot going on within these pieces, and the references abound throughout. A clear nod towards dance rock incorporates elements of Death From Above 1979’s newest incarnation, alongside elements of Interpol’s brooding darkness. Everything Vogue Villains do has their own distinct imprint on it, for they let the songs simmer. Nothing outright descends into the abyss; they merely flirt with the abyss in a way that feels acutely satisfying.
Building itself up into a frenzy is the patient churn of the opener “The Arsonist & Gasolina”. Small flourishes matter a great deal for they have a playful disposition to them. “Let the Wrong One In” lumbers forward in a way that recalls Primus at their most delightfully uninhibited. Elements of lounge filter into the swinging style of “New Striped Coat” for the song delves into a surrealist ode. By far the highlight of the album comes from the powerful “So You Say”. Full of such vigor, the guitar lines intermingle to create a virtual kaleidoscope of colors.
Various tonal shifts define the unease of “No Matter” where Vogue Villains embrace a bluesy disposition. Slowing the tempos down gives the track its own peculiar edge for every gesture is carefully considered. With “Subglorious”, the band nicely summarize all that came before in a way that feels satisfying and complete. Their sneering vocals work wonders as they delve into a woozy, unstable realm.
The Tony Sharkey produced “Subglorious Songs for Subpar People” EP shows off Vogue Villains’ uncanny ability to deliver a delightfully dark, weird and wonderful thing.
Stream and Share “Subglorious Songs for Subpar People” on Spotify
Review: "The Codex: Running The Point" Album by D'Vo
Houston based CHH artist D’Vo reveals the inner optimism of spirituality on the faith filled flows of his newly released album “The Codex: Running The Point”. Check out our in-depth review of D’Vo’s new project now.
Houston based CHH artist D’Vo reveals the inner optimism of spirituality on the faith filled flows of his newly released album “The Codex: Running The Point”. Lyrics rest front and center of the whole project, for he explores the importance of how community grows from belief. Highly articulate, D’Vo draws from a life lived to the fullest, as the narratives that fill the album reveal a thoughtful mind.
Arrangements too further add to this unique universe while D’Vo messes with listener expectations. Firmly rooted within hip-hop, he draws heavily from a West Coast G-Funk vibe, alongside trap, house, funk and even elements of Bossa Nova.
The kaleidoscopic approach works wonders for D’Vo. His low-key, laid-back delivery at times touches upon Snoop Dogg’s early output. Going for a joyful glee the way it all comes together recall Chance the Rapper’s playful mode. So much color is incorporated within these tracks, from lovely tender samples to the faded lo-fi synthesizers that occasionally punctuate the whole of the album. Sonically D’Vo brings elements of Neon Indian’s careful arrangements and the chilled out-vibes of Dam Funk, a particularly profound sort of crate digger.
Setting the tone for the album is the introspective “U Know What It Dew” which offers a wonderful shout-out to that Houston hip-hop institution, DJ Screw, even adopting his chopped and screwed style. Dreamy sounds radiate from the gorgeous “Halitosis”. Fantastically luxurious “281 Houston’s Son 281” has an incredible immersive approach. On “Elavated Thinkin” D’Vo goes for warm tones akin to Boards of Canada’s childlike sense of wonder.
The spacious “Drivin Wrong Way” features eerie undertones. Easily the highlight of the whole album comes from the potent “Me & My Friends”, feat. OB3PLE, Master Pe, Vicky Flint, and Yoel. References abound from Dolomite and beyond, giving it a summery spirit. With “Enmity” he strips down to the essentials. Classic and modern funk merge to become one on “Make It Last”. Happiness reigns supreme on “Swagger From My Father”. A sprawling ambitious take works wonders on “We Are Walking”, feat. OB3PLE and Fat Phil. Tying the whole album together is the intimate finale “Jesus Christ”.
D’Vo’s “The Codex: Running The Point” album shows off his uncanny ability to craft a true classic, one that feels positively timeless.
Stream and Share “The Codex: Running The Point” on Spotify
Review: "The Secret Stache" EP by Chughey
Spitting truth like pure fire, “The Secret Stache” EP by Michigan based rap artist @itschughey is an intensely personal performance. Check out our in-depth review of the EP now.
Spitting truth like pure fire, Michigan based rap artist Chughey’s “The Secret Stache” EP is an intensely personal performance. Lyrics have a unique quality to them verging on a stream of consciousness approach. By focusing intensely on mental health, a desire to grow, the collection has a power to it.
Chughey keeping the arrangements to the essentials the way the journey unfurls gives it a highly personal quality. Things have a reflective quality to them, from his observations that run through the entirety of the collection to the dreamy-hued melodies that gracefully waft on by.
References abound throughout the whole of the mix. Chughey’s style touches upon the work of Atmosphere and Oncue. By keeping things focused, the EP has a great urgency to it. Surprisingly reassuring, there is a hope that seems to tie it all together. The focus on redemption, the desire for it, gives Chughey a little in common with Kendrick Lamar’s pointed critiques of society at large. Additionally, too, the emphasis on getting the atmosphere just right further touches upon Lamar’s work, especially from his “DAMN.” album.
Woozy keys introduce the EP on a high note with “Example”. Akin to coming in and out of focus, the song’s disorienting structure perfectly punctuates Chughey’s careful, highly articulate narratives. The blurred melodies alongside the nimble beats gives it a floating through space sort of emphasis. Heavier with its tact is the intense “Begin to Die”. Delivered with urgency, from the martial rhythms to the shouted vocals, there is a commanding presence that tries to cut through the haze. Full of concern, care, and compassion, the song feels akin to a wake-up call.
Easily the highlight of the entire collection comes from the warped toy-box riffs of “Ominslash”. Giving it a nostalgia gone nightmare fervor, the eerie echoes add to the strange unsettling quality of the piece. Ever larger, the piece works itself into a virtual frenzy. For the finale stretch Chughey strips it all away, leaving only a raw beating heart at the very center of it all.
Chughey’s new EP, “The Secret Stache”, shows off his highly unique style, inviting the listener into his innermost thoughts and feelings.
Stream and Share “The Secret Stache
Review: "Blunderfish" Album by underfish and Léthargie
The “Blunderfish” album is exactly what your quarantine has been missing. Created by Canadian producer and rapper duo underfish and Léthargie, “Blunderfish” sounds like the grown-up version of your favorite Soundcloud rapper in the best way possible.
The “Blunderfish” album is exactly what your quarantine has been missing. It’s a wakeup call to rap and electronica - it’s all the musicality of a Chance the Rapper track, with all the weirdness and sense of humor from an Adult Swim show. Created by Canadian producer and rapper duo underfish and Léthargie, “Blunderfish” sounds like the grown-up version of your favorite Soundcloud rapper in the best way possible.
Léthargie, otherwise known as Michaël Landry, fits into a niche that the DCWS team hasn’t really encountered in our reviews before - his style harkens back to producers like AraabMuzik, focusing on sample-based trap and hip-hop beats. It greatly cheers up our #quarantinemood to hear dope instrumentals from someone with proper producer chops. Léthargie’s background is mostly in Electronica, but inspirations are hip hop heavy, ranging from Just blaze and J Dilla to 9th Wonder and Kenny Beats. The beats on this album aren’t just a canvas - they’re a piece of art in their own, and we can’t wait to see what big name MCs discover this under-the-radar gem soon.
The duo consciously worked on “Blunderfish” with a DIY sound in mind, along with early 2000s underground rap. We have to say, they pretty much nailed it with precisely chosen samples and unexpected vocal timbre.
A surprising standout beat we were obsessed with appeared as a casual interlude titled “Flopstyle”, “Sunlight” starts off as a soothing guitar-laden track that embodies how you feel standing under some warm ways, before it speeds up into something more exciting, and proves our golden friend a double edged sword; specifically warning us not to look directly into the sun. Underfish expands on problems of deception within the music industry and warns others as a cautionary tale while confessing his own inevitable involvement.
Underfish sells us a good performance in “Playin a Game”, but those Barry White samples steal the show, giving us a more complex peek into Léthargie and his process. The album is dotted with confident horns in this track and the cinematic “Mask Electric.” “Cloud Nein” is just as the title suggests, reminding listeners that every day is a chance to turn over a new leaf, all against a dreamy wave of a super-stoned beat.
Even if we’re stuck inside this summer, we’ll be playing “Blunderfish” as we soak in the sun or smoke that balcony spliff. We expect to see more hot drops from underfish, and hope that this duo eventually expand their portfolio to work with vocalists and branch out to additional collaborations.
Stream and Share “Blunderfish”
Review: "Dark Matter(s)" Album by Q.Z. Tha Leader
An idiosyncratic style defines @qzthaleader hypnotic “Dark Matter (s)” album. The stylistic potpourri reigns supreme for he filters through a great degree of genres, from elements of jazz, rock, electro, noise, all neatly anchored in a fine, flexible hip-hop framework.
An idiosyncratic style defines Q.Z. Tha Leader’s hypnotic “Dark Matter (s)” album. The stylistic potpourri reigns supreme for he filters through a great degree of genres, from elements of jazz, rock, electro, and noise, all neatly anchored in a fine, flexible hip-hop framework. By keeping things loose and unpredictable QZ truly marches to his own beat.
Huge amounts of distortion roll through adding to the intensity of the sound. Right in the center of it all is QZ’s highly pointed, articulate lyricism. His flow comes through with such urgency, for he combines observations on the greater universe with the here and now of the world at large.
QZ’s unique approach at times recalls the powerful, clear-eyed focus of A Tribe Called Quest. Arrangements further draw from their take as he allows the grooves and rhythms to become purely elastic. For the aggression of his style, the way he stretches things and adds a heavy jagged edge draws from Death Grips. Just like them, QZ lets things get a bit uncomfortable sonically. Volume, warped melodies, the whole of it has almost an industrial aesthetic. Then there are the lyrics, drawing from both a hopeful dreamy world (pining for Jupiter’s moon Europa) as well as dealing with the inherent flaws of the here and now of the world (systematic oppression).
“M.O.E. (Meanwhile on Earth) Intro” sets the tone for what follows: churning grooves and urgently delivered lyrics. Rock riffs filter into the mix on the force of nature style of the title track “Dark Matter(s)” feat. Devans Verse.
The luxurious “Born Leader” opts for a well-earned swagger, for the samples intermingle to create a joyous kaleidoscopic array. Muscular basslines worm through the infinitely catchy “God Flow” where lyrics are delivered with such poignancy.
Stripped down to the essentials is the hot humid approach of “Hero & Leander”, feat. Cristina, where the guitar adds to the reflective nature of the work. The personal journey of “Green House” feels particularly vulnerable with its intense storytelling. A calming finale comes with the laid-back “Good Intentions” feat. Devans Verse.
The self-produced “Dark Matter(s)” album shows off Q.Z. Tha Leader’s stark vision delivered with fire.