Watch "Many Waves Later", the New Audio/Visual Album by LIGHTS AT ELEVEN
LIGHTS AT ELEVEN has just unveiled an incredible visual album entitled “Many Waves Later”, which is thematically centered on the idea of nostalgia, utilizing audio and video samples from various sources; stream and watch it now!
DCWS is stoked to introduce you to Owen Cassidy, a musician/designer currently based in rural Central Texas. He developed the alter-ego LIGHTS AT ELEVEN as a means to release his music, audio-visual, and other creative projects. The persona continues to evolve alongside Owen. Together the two aim to push the boundaries of how sound and visuals can each function on their own, as well as together. To continue to explore what it means to be an artist, but more importantly, a human being. When he grows up, he wants to teach full-time.
LIGHTS AT ELEVEN has just unveiled an incredible visual album entitled “Many Waves Later”, which is thematically centered on the idea of nostalgia, utilizing audio and video samples from various sources to help create a scene where 90's underground hip-hop beats bumped into some 80's synths one day at El Mercado.
“Many Waves Later” features 14 incredible songs, and we guarantee that you will enjoy listening to it, as well as watching it. Do so right now below, stream it on Spotify and connect with LIGHTS AT ELEVEN on his website and social media. Also, be on the lookout for our exclusive interview and review of the album coming soon.
Stream and Share “Many Waves Later” on Spotify
Connect with Lights at Eleven: Website | Instagram | Twitter
Interview: Hyphen One Talks About OG Neuro's New Video "Stroke Code"
Big thanks to Hyphen One who connected with DCWS for an exclusive interview to discuss OG Neuro’s single/video “Stroke Code”, and much more.
“OG Neuro aims to creatively generate interest and/or knowledge in high level science and medicine consists of musicians, artists, medical doctors, and scientists from some of the most respected institutions in the world.”
If you had to describe the music of OG Neuro to a stranger in three words, which ones would you select?
Creative Science Funk
Congratulations on the release of the music video for "Stroke Code"; tell us about your creative process for the song itself, and who produced it.
The goal of this song was to break down the intricacies of the blood vessels of the brain along with related pathophysiology but talk about them as if they were a girl. The words in this song are the exact words that doctors use when talking to one another about ischemic stroke patients. The song was produced by Hyphen-One Entertainment with Ruby (Barbie Tatum) singing the hook, Jake Nowak on guitar, Joseph Biglin on keys, mixed by Chris Badami at Portrait (NJ) and mastered at Sterling Sound (NYC).
The visual is incredible; how did you and the director come up with its treatment? Also, what is the message behind the video?
Derek Whittington directed this video and really took it to the next level. We wanted to create organized chaos with scenes that keep changing every few seconds where a main character loosely goes on a journey with a homeless scientist's magical pager (beeper) throughout various cities, passing by various talented people during a time of coronavirus, the George Floyd murder, and social justice campaigns.
Bystanders interact with the main character by tipping their mask as a salutation. In the end, the main character puts the pager back down in front of the homeless scientist, who turns into a medical doctor when he picks it up. The pager represents something that the homeless man had all along, but was ultimately realized through the main character's journey and interactions with all the other characters in the film.
With "Stroke Code" now released, what's next musically for OG Neuro? Will the song be featured on an upcoming EP or album?
This song is a production that was made to hopefully embody the versatility of the OG Neuro project. It is being used to apply for scientific educational grants and to obtain more resources for more projects and experiments. It is unclear if an album or EP is in the future. Music is just a small part of what we would like to do.
Tell us about OG Neuro; what is the goal of the project and how did it originate? Who are the members?
OG Neuro aims to creatively generate interest and/or knowledge in high level science and medicine consists of musicians, artists, medical doctors, and scientists from some of the most respected institutions in the world.
This is a collaborative effort and each individual project will likely have a different roster. Some projects will be abstract, artistic, musical and some will be straight forward education. But everything is for real people. Everything we do will strive to have a dual-message: scientific and social.
Stream and Share “Stroke Code” on Bandcamp
Connect with OG Neuro: Website
Watch Vietnamese DJ Collective Pho The Girls Documentary Premiere on Mixcloud
SYS Sister Sounds presents: Pho The Girls short film documentary premiering exclusively on Mixcloud today at 7pm ICT. The documentary showcases female DJ collective Pho The Girls breaking boundaries in Hanoi, Vietnam.
SYS Sister Sounds presents: Pho The Girls short film documentary premiering exclusively on Mixcloud today at 7pm ICT.
The documentary showcases female DJ collective Pho The Girls breaking boundaries in Hanoi, Vietnam.
Shot and edited in Vietnam by Khmer/Vietnamese Australian DJ/Producer Maggie Tra, the film unfolds exposing sexism in Vietnam, whilst also empowering women and non-binary people in Hanoi by using music as a tool to unite and uplift like-minded people together to create a safe space.
Featuring Pho The Girls DJs and founder Maggie Tra, the documentary follows the journey of the girls who have participated in the workshop and tells the story of Maggie discovering and putting roots in Vietnam and leaving her footprint.
“The documentary is not just about djing, it’s about pushing boundaries and bringing women from all facets of life together by learning and playing,” said Maggie Tra.
“We’ve built a community from culture and I am so excited for the world to see that,” The premier will take place via SYS Sister Sounds’s Mixcloud: https://www.mixcloud.com/SYSSisterSounds/.
Event Details
Date: 29th October 2021
Time: 7pm ICT
Cost: Free but donations are most welcome which will go towards Pho The Girls in funding for new initiatives and scholarships.
About SYS Sister Sounds
Established 2 years ago, SYS Sister Sounds is a community built to empower and push women x NB in the creative and music industry. The aim of the organisation is to encourage and uplift women in the music industry through radio shows, workshops and interviews with women globally. Pho The Girls is the DJ workshop that has taught over 100 Vietnamese women and non-binary people.
Connect with SYS Sister Sounds: Facebook
Connect with Maggie Tra: Facebook
Rising Latin RnB Artist ZTILO Announces His Debut EP "No Hard Feelingz", Out November 12th
Rising Latin R&B singer @ztilomusic is thrilled to announce that his debut EP, 'No Hard Feelingz', will see an independent release via streaming/digital platforms on November 12th!
Rising Latin R&B singer ZTILO is thrilled to announce that his debut EP, 'No Hard Feelingz', will see an independent release via streaming/digital platforms on November 12th! The debut record will serve as a celebration of the Bay Area native's self-described "boy band trap" offerings in 2021, featuring recent singles like "Peligrosa", "Manera", and "I Got You" from earlier this summer.
A first-generation Latin American who transitioned from the rap game to pursue more R&B/vocal-influenced music, Ztilo partnered with LA-based mixing engineer Zach Steele (Travis Scott, Trey Songz, The Weeknd) to produce the tracks on the new record; with Steele co-writing on the project as well.
Speaking about 'No Hard Feelingz', Ztilo shares:
"2021 has been an amazing start to this new chapter in my career and this project puts it all in perspective. Whether my music reaches fans of Latin, R&B, or pop I pride myself in bringing them all together in one place. Tell the major labels I said hi”
In addition to the upcoming release of his debut EP, Ztilo is pleased to share a very special acoustic version of his song "I Got You", which was both filmed and recorded at the renowned Clive Davis Theater inside the Grammy Museum! An exclusive video of the performance premiered via GRAMMY.com for their series 'Positive Vibes Only', while the audio version of the acoustic will appear on 'No Hard Feelingz'.
Looking back on performing "I Got You" in the illustrious theater, Ztilo remarks:
"Some of the biggest acts in music have performed here, and I’m just honored to share the stage with them."
Check Ztilo out on his social media, and be ready for “No Hard Feelings” on November 12th.
Detroit Rapper Noveliss and Producer Dixon Hill Connect on "Book of Changes" Album, Due Out November 19th
Detroit-based rapper and top tier lyricist Noveliss digs deep on new collaborative album "Book of Changes" with beatmaker/producer and composer Dixon Hill, which is due for release on November 19th.
Detroit-based rapper and top tier lyricist Noveliss digs deep on new collaborative album "Book of Changes" with beatmaker/producer and composer Dixon Hill, which is due for release on November 19th. A high concept, refreshingly original album through and through, "Book of Changes" is wholly based on the I Ching musically and lyrically. From referring to the ancient text during the writing of this album to assigning each song it's own Hexagram, careful thought has gone into every aspect of this release. The result is an immersive hip hop experience that roots you in the moment, guided by Noveliss's complex, impactful vocals and Dixon Hill's heady atmospherics and rhythms.
Conceived, written, and recorded in isolation, 'Book of Changes' sets Noveliss as a hermetic sage seeking balance and enlightenment over Dixon Hill's ethereal musical backdrops. Dixon Hill used samples, live instruments, and field recordings to create the sonic template for this record. Each song transition smoothly from one to another using melodic elements and natural sounds to tether the songs together for a cohesive listening experience.
Noveliss is as lyrical as ever, weaving complex rhymes through Hill's melodic boom bap. The lyrical themes on this album deal with feelings of isolation, meditation, balance, travel, and Taoist wisdom. Each song corresponds with a different section of the I Ching and is represented by a Hexagram from each section. Listeners can discover a deeper meaning in each track by referencing the Hexagrams on the back cover. The album is meant to be played on repeat for full effect.
Connect with Noveliss below on his website and social media, and pre-order “Book of Changes", due out on November 19th via Clear Soul Records/Fatbeats.
Stream "Catharsis", the New Album by Psybient/Downtempo Musician Marc-E
Vancouver-based Psybient/Downtempo musician Marc-E has just released of experimental new full-length album "Catharsis". Electronic music enthusiasts can expect a multi-layered psychedelic experience as well as plenty of live instrumentation and syncopated hand drums.
Vancouver-based Psybient/Downtempo musician Marc-E has just released of experimental new full-length album "Catharsis". Electronic music enthusiasts can expect a multi-layered psychedelic experience as well as plenty of live instrumentation and syncopated hand drums. Marc-E used creative recording techniques, employed the sounds of multiple instruments and embraced his own sound effects as well as the natural world around him to create this boundary-breaking release.
With track names like "Acceptance", "Seed of Faith" and "Shadow Work", listeners can also expect a musical compass for their own inner journey. Marc-E's "Catharsis" is undoubtedly music for the creative, deep thinker ready to let go of unnecessary mental trappings.
Speaking about the album, Marc-E says “Catharsis is very experimental, I used many creative and unique recording techniques. The vibe and feel of Catharsis is to release past traumas and find comfort in the moment, and move on with full confidence in life.”
Listen to “Catharsis” right now, stream it on Bandcamp, and connect with Marc-E on his website and social media.
Pittsburgh Based Music Collective Beo String Quartet Release Their New Album "Ghosts Revisited"
Beo String Quartet stay true to their bold musical vision on the abstract, compelling new album "Ghosts Revisited", which was just unveiled last week.
Pittsburgh-based music collective Beo String Quartet compose truly original Chamber Alt music with lyrical themes spanning the dark recesses of the human consciousness. Not only do they dig deep in theme; the sound they've created by uniting classical music and progressive rock/metal is rousing and intense. Another aspect of Chamber Alt music is that the music is composed. Everything is written out first. Beo String Quartet stay true to their bold musical vision on the abstract, compelling new album "Ghosts Revisited", which was just unveiled last week.
Speaking about "Ghosts Revisited", Beo String Quartet says,
“Blending classical lyricism with progressive rock, Ghosts Revisited is inspired by personal transformation—the things that cause someone to basically break out of their old skin. The highly poetic, fragmentary lyrics take us right to the edge of our consciousness. Half-awake, shifting impressions float through our minds where a single moment can explode into years and years can pass by unnoticed.
"We've flipped the roles of string quartet vs rock combo normally found in popular styles," says producer Sean Neukom. "In Ghosts Revisited, it's the strings giving us the substance of the sound. The drums, guitar, bass, and vocals drop in for added definition and texture."
The string quartet runs through the core of “Ghosts Revisited”. The album opens with an expansive and virtuosic introduction for string quartet before launching the full band into the first song. The string quartet also seamlessly transitions the mood between each song played by the full band.
Listen to “Ghosts Revisited” now, stream it on your preferred music service and connect with Beo String Quartet on their website and social media.
Stream and Share “Ghosts Revisited”
Connect with Beo String Quartet: Website | Twitter | Instagram
Review: "Emcee" EP by DaRealMrLee
Poland based DaRealMrLee embraces a hazy disposition with the dazed environment of his debut EP “Emcee”. Check out our review of this DOPE new project now.
Poland based DaRealMrLee embraces a hazy disposition with the dazed environment of his debut EP “Emcee”. Everything here features a keen balance. Icy grooves are matched by fiery, blistering performances of the very aptly named “Emcee”. Like a true MC, DaRealMrLee takes the mike and runs with it. These pieces bounce off the walls quite hysterically at times. By allowing there to be a calm tempo, slow, steady, and deliberate, it serves as a background to the overall spirit of the sound, making sure it all works once taken in as a singular whole.
DaRealMrLee absolutely burns through these verses like some sort of possessed Busta Rhymes. The speed at which he travels is doubly impressive, for there is a chaos to his effect. Even as weird and mellowed as the productions themselves are, he brings about a bit of the sheer terrified energy of Danny Brown in terms of the pile-ups of wordplay. Incredibly skilled on the mike he burns it all down. Production-wise there is a vaporwave aspect to the sound for it glows with such radiant colors, and the beats hit with a half-remembered dream like quality, like Floral Shoppe gone rap.
The project opens up on an acidic tone with the giddy opener “EP Emcee”. After the small interlude of “Skit-Lenard says I’ll Chop Yer Ear Off Lenard” things hit hard on “Specialists”, featuring Joka B and Lucky Lyrics. Here there is a certain darkness to it, for the melodies waft on up into the air. “Laser Sight” features a chilled-out bass alongside intensely delivered bars.
Metallic clangs give “What Time Is It?” a rather eerie presence. Hyperkinetic wordplay blasts through with “Grafters”, featuring JLMz. With “Skit-HashTag Abuse” they go for a giddy strangeness. Cryptic “Room 316” with Ultra_eko is infused with pure uncut dread, as the threatening aspect never stops. “Ghost Racer Redux” has a driving pulse to it, veering unexpectedly. On “Skit- Block Em Bazza” the piece has a truly cartoonish aspect. Bringing it all home in a powerful muscular way is the intense “Skillers”, featuring $Doobie$Dinero$ and Bad Ape Music.
The “Emcee” EP features the exquisite charm of DaRealMrLee in crafting something that has a confrontational yet incredibly honest demeanor, transcending trends for something much more timeless.
Stream and Share “Emcee” on: Spotify | Soundcloud
UK Breakout Star Mimi Webb Releases Her Debut "Seven Shades of Heartbreak" EP
After building anticipation worldwide, UK pop singer and songwriter Mimi Webb proudly presents her debut “Seven Shades of Heartbreak” EP. The seven-track project places her show-stopping vocals, eloquent songwriting, and undeniable energy directly in the spotlight. Listen to the EP now!
After building anticipation worldwide, UK pop singer and songwriter Mimi Webb proudly presents her debut “Seven Shades of Heartbreak” EP.
The seven-track project places her show-stopping vocals, eloquent songwriting, and undeniable energy directly in the spotlight. It boasts international hits “Good Without,” “Dumb Love,” and the recent single “24/5.” Prior to release, these fan and critical favorites have already eclipsed 250 million streams and counting. Meanwhile, “Good Without” and “Dumb Love” simultaneously occupied spots in the Top 15 on the UK Singles Chart, which notably cemented Mimi Webb as “the first UK female artist, since Dua Lipa in 2017, to land two singles in the UK Top 15 before the release of her debut album.”
She celebrated the release of “Seven Shades of Heartbreak” with the premiere of the music video for “Halfway” directed by Malia James.
About her debut EP, she commented, “I wanted to put together a body of work that told a story from beginning to end, allowing me to retell experiences I've been through. Writing this EP has been incredibly therapeutic for me, these seven songs are really personal and it feels very special to be able to share them with the world as part of Seven Shades of Heartbreak.”
Elsewhere on the EP, “Little Bit Louder” highlights a hypnotic hook over a dancefloor-ready beat and shimmering piano. “Heavenly” lives up to its title with divine delivery as her voice flutters over a jazz-y sway. It culminates with the emotionally charged “Lonely In Love.” She opens up as she tries to reach for a fading love with a plea, “Can you just stay one night? Tell me you’ll change your mind…I never want to be lonely in love.”
After completely selling out her first ever UK tour starting this month in Dublin on October 28th and ending in London on November 2nd, next up, Mimi Webb will launch a 2022 UK and European headline tour. The six-week run kicks off January 19 at Melkweg, OZ in Amsterdam, visits major markets across Europe, and concludes back at O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire in London, UK. Check out the full confirmed itinerary below. It will be her first European jaunt in support of the “Seven Shades of Heartbreak” EP.
Listen to Mimi’s “Seven Shades of Heartbreak” EP right now, stream it on your preferred music service and connect with her on social media.
Interview: Los Angeles RnB/Pop Artist Madeleine Rauch Talks About Her New Single "Far Away"
DCWS connected with Los Angeles based RnB/Pop singer-songwriter Madeleine Rauch for an exclusive interview to talk about her new single “Far Away”, and much more.
“The idea of the song has always been the same...the verses tell a story about going through difficult times and the chorus gives a hopeful message.”
Congratulations on the release of your new single "Far Away"; who produced it, and what was your creative process for its development from a songwriting standpoint?
Thank you so much! It's been a long time coming, actually. I started writing “Far Away” and pre-producing a demo about 6 years ago. But one or two years later, when I was going through a tough break-up, I changed the lyrics of the verses and the bridge.
The idea of the song has always been the same though: the verses tell a story about going through difficult times and the chorus gives a hopeful message. I started working on the production with several producers in Germany, but it never felt quite right. So the production of the song didn't come to life until I moved to Los Angeles in early 2020 and met Alex Winter. He is an incredible producer!
We talked a lot about music and exchanged ideas and when he send me the first draft of the production, I already knew this is it! It's the most amazing feeling to finally hear an awesome production of your song! After that the process just consists of sending production mixes and notes back and forth until you perfect the song! Alex and I are definitely going to work on more songs together. And I can't wait!
With the single now released, can we expect a music video next for it?
I actually just had a video shoot for a lyric video for “Far Away” a few days ago! It's still needs editing, but in one or two weeks you can expect a video for the song! The shoot was so much fun! We just walked through these cute Los Angeles neighborhoods and let it flow! Can't wait for you to see it!
Will "Far Away" be appearing on an upcoming EP or album? If so, what can you tell us about the project?
I haven't planned an EP release yet. At the moment, I would rather just release single after single instead of holding back and then releasing a bunch of songs at the same time! I have a few more songs in the pipeline. I have worked with different producers! There's definitely going to be another release this year. And then two more at the beginning of next year!
But, of course, eventually I will want to release a cohesive project like an EP and album, too!
Tell us about your experience touring festivals and arenas all over Europe with German superstar rapper Marteria; what would you say was your highlight of the tour?
Oh yeah, that was an amazing time! We played a bunch of huge festivals like Rock im Park, Lollapalooza and Hurricane Festival! And then we also went on two arena tours! The band and crew is like a family, we had a great time!
Hanging out in the tour bus or doing sightseeing in a bunch of cities felt like a fun school field trip sometimes. Thinking of highlights, there's actually three moments that come to my mind! First of all, our show at Sputnik Spring Break Festival. It was my first show with Marteria and I was pretty nervous because we performed in front of almost 30,000 people.
And then the Sziget Festival in Budapest! It's probably the biggest music festival in Europe with over 400,000 attendees. And despite the size of it, the festival had the coolest vibe. The line-up was terrific! Plus everybody was super friendly, there was tons of amazing food and a lot of fun activity and chill areas!
And the third highlight was our concert at the "Ostsee Stadium" in Rostock, Germany. We played an over 2 hour show in front of 33,000 people who only came to see us! I swear those 2 hours went by in a second. I couldn't even believe it!
With 2021 coming to a conclusion, what are some of your goals musically for 2022?
I want to release as much music as I can and collaborate with other artists and producers. Also, I want to plan more shows, I really missed performing during Covid. It's time to get back on stage! The pandemic put a lot of things on hold, and I am so excited to finally make music and perform the way I used to!
Connect with Madeleine Rauch: Website | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook
Review: "Crimson" Mixtape by Omari Vel
Artist/producer @lil_halfie infuses a psychedelic whirlwind on the heavy trap beats of his mixtape, “Crimson”. A creative take on the classic hip-hop sound, the electronic flourishes ensures that there is a great degree of surprise throughout the entirety of the experience.
Philly based artist and producer Omari Vel infuses a psychedelic whirlwind on the heavy trap beats of his mixtape, “Crimson”. A creative take on the classic hip-hop sound, the electronic flourishes ensures that there is a great degree of surprise throughout the entirety of the experience. Beyond the clear rap which reigns supreme, elements of hyper-pop, vaporwave, hard rock, and industrial among others helps to inform the nimble sound. Lyrics here rest right front and center, for every verse is thrown like a bomb. The multifaceted layers help to wind, unfurling the whole experience in a way that feels outright masterful. Every word is chosen with care making sure that they cut to the very bone.
The experience itself has a rather sun-drenched attitude to it. With a wide hybrid of influences, one of the ones that does seem to permeate much of the work is the unequally unpredictive nature of Frank Ocean at his most frenzied. So much energy and activity take place, with the sounds folding into themselves, that at times the atmosphere tends to draw a bit from classic 80s rappers such as Rammellzee, whose mixture of classical with hip-hop gets clearly referenced throughout. Nearly symphonic at times, Omari proves to have a deft ear for melody and groove.
An orchestra tuning up sets the tone on the crisp, hard-hitting beats of “Running Man” for the tempo is brought to the breaking point. Bass rumbles on through “Cali Ay”, feat. Rizu & Johnny Freshman, in a way that absolutely grinds everything into dust. On “Iron Will” Omari dives headfirst into this odd, trippy aural universe.
By far the highlight of the album “Iron Will” evolves in a way that is a pure joy. Wonderfully stately keyboards underpin the entirety of the regal “UltraViolet”. More informal “Patti B” has a twisted quality for the song is constantly stretched apart and reconfigured in wonderful ways, with the guitar work in particular containing such soul. Guitar gains a summery spirit with the spaced-out vibes of “Long Way”. With the intensity of “WOVI” feat. regothereshego, Omari ties all that came before together in a masterful fashion.
“Crimson” shows off an unusually tactile take, showing off Omari Vel’s pure fire flows.
Stream and Share “Crimson” on Spotify
Interview: Philly Based Artist/Producer Omari Vel Discusses His Debut Mixtape "Crimson"
DCWS connected with Philadelphia based artist and producer @lil_halfie for an exclusive interview to discuss his debut, self-produced EP, “Crimson”, and much more.
“As an artist, my day to day interactions influence my work. Everything comes down to representing my life and 2020 felt so devoid of that. It felt so empty and confusing. I think that’s why “Crimson” came out so big.”
Congratulations on the release of your debut mixtape "Crimson"; tell us about your creative process for the seven songs, and your overall inspiration for the project.
My general creative process is I make the beats custom to my vocals. I start with a demo beat that I then write to. I record vocals over it and arrange the song around those pre-recorded vocals. This results in very detailed beats that have a dynamic feel. My end goal is to make rap songs that follow more rock or funk like song structures. In saying this, I mean songs where the choruses have distinct chord changes and more interesting layering. I want to move away from the beat switch trap of rap production and focus on song writing that centers around repeating motifs.
Inspiration wise, my music is heavily influenced by a wide range of genres and artists. In the rap world, I draw most of my inspiration from Kendrick's "Good Kid Maad City", Travis Scott's "Rodeo" and Kanye's "My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy". All three of these albums pushed the bounds of hip-hop from a lyrical and production standpoint.
Funk is another major influence on my music. Eddie Hazel of Funkadelic is my favorite guitarist and I consider Rick James the greatest performer of all time. The flashy style and eccentric outfits of the 70s & 80s are something I look to recreate in my live shows. Artists used to look like superheros and I just love that.
Prince's force and energy is also one I draw a lot of inspiration from. The genius of his songwriting doesn't lie in massive song structures but in minor changes throughout the song to keep the listener engaged. David Bowie also falls into this category of genius. I legitimately study the song "Life On Mars". The flowliness of the orchestration is masterful. For such a maximalist song, it never feels like too much and the parts are never clashing. I guess fundamentally, I appreciate tight arrangements. I strive to make music that is dense, over layered but absolutely does not come off that way.
Lady Gaga is another major inspiration. She follows the same songwriting pattern with the added benefit of fantastically dark visuals. "The Fame" and "The Fame Monster" are fundamental to my understanding of what makes great pop music.
Shifting gears slightly, Shoegaze is another major inspiration. The guitar work on "Long Way" is directly inspired by the band Slowdive, particularly their project "Souvlaki".
Switching gears even more, Modest Mussorgsky is my favorite composer. I strive to one day make a project that mirrors "Pictures at an Exhibition". Outside of the dense arrangements, that symphony is the first example I can think of that mixes visual and musical arts.
Were there songs that you recorded that you decided not to place on the mixtape? If so, why did they not make it?
There are plenty of songs that were left off “Crimson”. I think it was Prince who said you have to make five albums to make one. Regardless, because of the way I compose, any half-done songs would have stuck out very obviously. "Running Man" set a standard for the album that I was in no way willing to go below.
What are some things/people/places that influence the music that you create?
Interesting question, because of the pandemic I couldn't really go anywhere, so it was definitely difficult to find external inspiration. As an artist, my day to day interactions influence my work. Everything comes down to representing my life and 2020 felt so devoid of that. It felt so empty and confusing. I think that's why "Crimson" came out so big. I ended up creating a fantasy world for myself; a world very distant from the nothingness I felt surrounded by.
Tell us about your involvement with the psych/prog rock band called Chewy. Also, how do you decide which songs to give to the band and keep for your solo work?
In Chewy, I am the producer not the songwriter. Connor La Rocca wrote all of the songs, I just helped bring them to life. Using a similar process to "Crimson", we recorded the bare bones of each song and then sound designed each while mixing. I think this process helps create a much more engaging final project. There truly isn't a second that wasn't considered on "HOUSE OF CHEWY!" or "Crimson".
With "Crimson" now released, what is next for you musically?
I'm currently taking a mini hiatus from making music just to recharge. BUT I do know my next project is called "Don't Look Down You Might Crash".
Alt-Pop Rapper Ashnikko Celebrates Halloween with NoCap For an Exclusive Livestream from NYC’s Terminal 5
Blue-haired maverick, @ashnikko, will join @NoCaptwitter for a special Halloween livestream from New York City’s Terminal 5 on October 31st. Dance to songs from the critically acclaimed album “DEMIDEVIL” like hit sensations like “Daisy” and “Slumber Party”; get your tix now!
Blue-haired maverick, Ashnikko, will join NoCap for a special Halloween livestream from New York City’s Terminal 5 on October 31st at 9pm EST/6PM PST. Dance to songs from the critically acclaimed album DEMIDEVIL like hit sensations like “Daisy” and “Slumber Party”, featuring Princess Nokia. The powerhouse rapper-singer will bring her unrelenting energy and passion to the stage giving fans an unforgettable experience. Grab tickets to Ashnikko’s special Halloween event to see a truly inimitable performance.
NoCap, the brainchild of Roxy Theatre co-owner and Grammy nominated musician/producer/ entrepreneur Cisco Adler along with an all-star list of partners in the music and tech industries, is both a platform and promoter of premium livestream concerts and innovative experiences giving fans around the world access to incredible performances and an unlimited capacity proving that a global streaming audience is fast becoming the new general admission. NoCap is innovating and evolving the future of the music industry, offering a unique approach for artists to make a living off their craft beyond recorded music and traditional touring.
NoCap gives fans all over the world a chance to see live shows by top-tier talent in storied venues like The Roxy Theatre and one-of-a-kind locations with visually stunning concert-quality sound, creating unforgettable experiences offering exclusive content and merchandise in addition to VIP and Meet & Greet upgrades. NoCap is proud to have worked with artists like Jimmy Buffett, Foo Fighters, Machine Gun Kelly, Todd Rundgren, Adam Lambert, G-Eazy, Wallows, Weezer, Kehlani, Bad Religion and more.
For tickets and more information on Ashnikko’s livestream with NoCap, visit https://nocap.show/ashnikko-p. Tickets are GA $17.50.
Interview: Colt Williams Talks About the Music Video For "Evolve", Off His EP "LAJ"
DCWS connected with Upper Darby, PA based rap artist @ColtWilliamsMsc for an exclusive interview to discuss his music video for “Evolve”, which appears on his 4-track EP “LAJ”, and much more.
“This project and the therapy it provided me with getting all of my feelings about the situation out was like grabbing a rock and climbing myself out of that hole. We Hurt, we Evolve, we Accept, we Live. We HEAL.”
If you had to describe your music to a stranger in three words, which ones would you select?
Thoughtful, Personal, and Dope of course.
We're huge fans of your single/music video "Evolve"; tell us about your creative process for the development of the song itself, and who produced it?
Thank you. The talented NK Music produced the song. Some may know that name from a lot of lo-fi and chill music playlists on Spotify and Youtube.
Anyways, this was early in the planning for the EP and I was just getting beats together. I was looking for a particular sound, a particular mood that I wanted to evoke. I was on Youtube listening to one of those chill/study playlists and this name kept coming up and the beats were so smooth and something to vibe to. I went to their page and began listening and there was one in particular that caught my attention. The rest is the “LAJ” EP.
The visual matches the song perfectly; how did you and the director, Ryan Sellers, come up with its treatment? Also, why did you choose to film a video for this song?
Surprisingly it was one of my coworkers who listened to the EP that influenced me to make some visuals for the song. Ryan and I know each other through his cousin that I went to school with so the connection was easy. I had already known that he made music videos and other types of media like movies and gaming stuff for some time now so why not keep it in the circle? We got together, had a brainstorming session and came up with the story beat for beat, scene for scene, basically going through what we thought could work and what wouldn't work. The end product is something amazing that I am proud to share with everyone.
"Evolve" appears on your 4-track EP "LAJ"; how long did the project take to complete, and were there songs that did not make the final track list?
The project took a little bit to finish up. The recording was easy, but putting together all of my thoughts and feelings from that situation into music form took some time. There was a lot of bringing up past memories and hurt that went into it. Whenever you get your heart broken it takes you to a dark place. If you don't get help or deal with it, it's like you can find yourself constantly falling down a hole.
This project and the therapy it provided me with getting all of my feelings about the situation out was like grabbing a rock and climbing myself out of that hole. We Hurt, we Evolve, we Accept, we Live. We HEAL.
With the "Evolve" visual now released, what are some of your goals musically for the remainder of 2021?
For 2021 I'm focused on the new EP “Expensive Tastes” releasing and to keep pushing the video and that project. I might release some more stuff before year's end. Who knows?
What are your thoughts about the state of rap music in Upper Darby/Philly metro in 2021? Would you say that it is in a good space heading into 2022?
I would say that it's in good hands. There's a lot of talent looking to make moves going into 2022. I think people tend to downplay or look over the influence and part that this area has played in hip-hop over the years. Like 3 Stacks at the Source Awards though, we got something to say!
Stream "Emcee", the Debut EP by Poland Based Rapper/Producer DaRealMrLee
Yorkshire born, Poland based, rapper and producer, DaRealMrLee, has just released his long awaited first EP. Titled, “Emcee”, the project showcases the versatile skills and intelligent lyricism of the artist. Check out the “Emcee” EP now.
Yorkshire born, Polish based, rapper and producer, DaRealMrLee, has just released his long awaited first EP. Titled, “Emcee”, the project showcases the versatile skills and intelligent lyricism of the artist. His modern style is heavily influenced by the grime sound, complemented by the darker side of East coast hip hop, with a few old school sounds sprinkled in to mix it up; all coloured with a strong UK flavour.
“Emcee” is a perfect introduction to the skills and talent of Mr. Lee, who flows effortlessly across a diversity of beats and sounds within. He shows wit, style and a consummate ease in his craft. His love and passion for the music really shines through on these tracks, which demand repeat plays. It is clear that his artistry has been honed and perfected over time.
Another impressive aspect of the EP, is the number of featured artists who appear throughout, a nod to the collaborative traditions of hip hop throughout the years. Despite only releasing music since 2019, DaRealMrLee has cultivated a strong network of artists around himself, on whose work he himself has appeared, building a reputation for himself as a strong feature artist. The EP includes performances from no less than six different rappers across its eight musical numbers. These include Bad Ape, Joka B, and Ultra_eko.
This is a strong opener from DaRealMrLee, and something of a statement of intent. It is a work to be enjoyed over and over, and with a full length album due in the first half of next year, there is much to look forward to from the talented Mr. Lee.
Listen to “Emcee” right now, stream it on Soundcloud, and connect with DaRealMrLee on IG. Also, be on the lookout for our in-depth review of the EP coming soon.
Stream and Share “Emcee” on Soundcloud
Connect with DaRealMrLee: Instagram
Interview: Worcester, MA Rap Artist Burny Kev Discusses His Clip For "Talmbout", Featuring Casket Gonz
DCWS connected with Worcester, MA based rapper Burny Kev for an exclusive Q&A to discuss his music video for “Talmbout”, featuring Casket Gonz, and much more.
“Didn’t know at the time the music was going to be therapy to me. When I’m sad I write, when I’m happy I write, when I’m mad I write, when I’m inspired I write; I just write man.”
Tell us about how you got started writing rhymes and who some artists were that influenced you early on.
It’s crazy cause when I think of it, I’ve been rapping when I was little like ever since I was introduced to rap but never took it seriously of course. The song that really made me want to take rap serious is XO Tour Life by Lil Uzi. I heard the chorus and was like man I’ve made choruses similar or as catchy as that joking around all the time. Didn’t know at the time the music was going to be therapy to me. When I’m sad I write, when I’m happy I write, when I’m mad I write, when I’m inspired I write; I just write man.
J Cole is my favorite rapper of all time but I love Drake, Lil Wayne, Kendrick, Wale, Hov, Eminem and Old Kanye. I think those are my biggest influences in my music. They have no idea but their music hasn’t only given me inspiration but it pushes me to make music as good or if possible better than theirs.
I set a certain standard every time I write I’m always trying to get better every word, every flow, every chorus never want to feel comfortable; I’m always looking for improvement and if you just hear my music throughout the years, I think you’ll hear it too. It’s a actually a big theme for this next tape I tried to push my sound, I’m trying new things and new flows and really proud of the way it’s coming out so far.
Congratulations on the release of your music video for "Talmbout". Tell us about your creative process for the song itself, how you connected with Casket Gonz, and who produced it.
Thank you I appreciate the love, “Talmbout” the song and music video is some of my proudest work up to date. As soon as I heard the beat made by “Pale 1080” I knew that it would be one of the hit singles from my newest project “The Venting System”. It was actually one of the last songs I made for the tape.
I was looking for a beat that would set the tone for the tape and as soon as I heard it, it was love at first hear lol. As for connecting with Casket Gonz, he family. We’ve know each other since little kids. Dude is really freaking talented in almost everything he does and he has some of the best music in my city in my opinion. Love everything he is about and I thought he would add a missing element to the song. His smooth vibe really elevates the song to a new level and I can’t wait to create with him again.
How did you and the director, Nieves Filmz, come up with the treatment for the video and why did you decide on this song off your "The Venting System" album?
Nieves Filmz is the guy fr. So sad he moved from Worcester. He is so patient and he really wants to bring your idea to life.
Once I gave him the idea that I wanted to do a restaurant type video we brainstormed to create this masterpiece. The customers are getting bad customer service, they are upset and the crew doesn’t seem to care or even know what’s going on. So basically no one knows what is going on or what any one is “Talmbout” lol.
Nieves and me worked before and he is as professional as it gets. This video I couldn’t have pictured it coming out any better, from my guys and the ladies incredible on spot acting skills, to all the crazy edits my guy Nieves did. Really really proud of “Talmbout”, so shoutout to my guy Nieves. Like I was saying before I just knew hearing the beat just one time this was the song and I’ve been getting great reviews on it.
Speaking of beats, what do you look for in the instrumentals that you select to write to?
I never really know what to expect when I pick out beats. Every time I explain how I pick a beat to a friend they are always amazed but to me it seems like it’s nothing special. Whenever I pick a beat, the beat has to speak to me literally. Whatever is on my mind or my subconscious that I cannot just say aloud or do not know how to express it at the time, literally a beat will come on and it will tell me exactly how I’m feeling.
Some songs when I finish I look at the lyrics and be like wow I didn’t know this how I felt about a situation but at the same time it’s me that just wrote those words dow. Now actually saying that aloud that’s crazy yoooo; it has got to be God lol.
I believe before music I didn’t know how to express myself; I always just made jokes about my feelings and it was really killing me inside. This music is just my way out and I love it I’ll listen to 1000 a beats a week and I only find one beat that really speaks to me it’s worth it every time, even if I don’t, I love listening to beats and trying to understand the producer and how he or she ideally wanted the rapper to sing on this.
I really love what I do everything about it from listening to the beat at first, to writing how I truly feel, to making a crazy music video to connect everything I’m thinking. Cannot wait to create and share more of mind to the world. I know I said a lot but I really love talking about all this music.
How would you describe the hip-hop music scene in Worcester? Are locals generally supportive of homegrown talent?
Worcester, Massachusetts… man I love my city; I wouldn’t want to grow up any place else. There’s so many talented artists in this city; some I know about, some I have no clue about because the hip-hop scene is nonexistent. Though I think it’s nonexistent now, I do think it has potential, too many talented artists not to change that.
I look forward to the future fasho and def want to change the hip-hop scene. In the future I would love to go to Atlanta or New York to kind of study how they get an artist to blow it seems like every year or month. It’s all a part of my plans; I can’t wait to get to work for real.
With "The Venting System" now released, what are some of your goals musically as 2021 is winding down, heading into 2022?
I actually have another tape on the way. “CHB”, I’m waiting to give out what in stands for in a few weeks. It has nothing to do with Drake’s “CLB” but I think it’s funny when people try to decipher the name and guess things like Certified Hustler Boy or Certified Hater Boy.
I think I’m getting to the point where I’m almost done with it and hopefully I can get it out November or December. That’s my goal for the end of the year.
I have a single with a new video coming out soon called “Smooth Operator”; we will probably be interviewing about that soon too. Another song and video I’m proud of.
I’m working with my guy JJ, also known as “J Vazquez Visuals” on that one; he did an amazing job. I can’t wait for people to see that one. Hopefully by the end of October, depending how far along I am with the tape, I’ll drop it.
Stream and Share “The Venting System” on Spotify
Connect with Burny Kev: Instagram