More music from the undisputed best blog in the universe. Better than Martian blogs. Even xenomorph blogs can’t compete.
THE BEST:
‘American Dream’ –
LCD Soundsystem
It’s been a while since these moody electro-rockers graced
us with their music. Despite the euphoric tenor of the opening synths (they’re
almost Christmassy) the timbres are very much cold and steely and the lyrics aren’t
exactly cheery, describing casual sex as if it were Victorian coal mine work. If
the track is truly a picture of the American Dream, then it’s Lady Liberty in
all her glory, with bags under her eyes and cellulite and clinical depression.
‘Tongue’ – Pero Pero
The tight rock riffs drew me in but watching the duo
transform into lizards certainly added to the thrills. My old piano teacher
always told me a good musician needs scales behind them, but I never thought to
take it literally. An album titled Lizards
is in the pipeline which means we hopefully won’t have to wait long to hear
more from this Berlin-based demented duo.
‘War is Hell’ – Ho99o9
Ho99o9 (pronounced 'Horror') are pretty much a more accessible
Death Grips, although not so accessible that your grandmother would comfortably
listen to them. The distorted bass, shrieked vocals and fucked-up guitar
sampling are still a massive gut-punch to even a hardened noise-hop listener
like myself. Their message against police brutality also comes three days after
the shooting of a 15-year-old boy in San Diego giving the track extra impact.
‘Soap’ – Deem Spencer
Bringing down the pace somewhat, this single from Queens
rapper Deem Spencer is ancient in blogging terms (it was released in January)
but I couldn’t just let it slide. Sporting a pensive sleepy flow and some
effortlessly poetic lyricism, Deem’s style is one of a hypnotist that lured you
in and keeps you entranced. Combine the cadence of Isaiah Rashad and the
riddle-spinning capability of Earl Sweatshirt and you have an idea of what to
expect.
‘Fireworks’ – Miles
From Kinshasa
This London-based r&b artist was born in Kinshasa in the
Republic of Congo, hence the name Miles From Kinshasa. ‘Fireworks’ sees him
delivering a smooth Sampha-like croon over warm synth swells and steady
electronic percussion. It’s urban r&b of the highest order.
THE WORST:
‘Bring It Back’ – Lil
Yachty
With its 80s power ballad percussion, I guess this is Lil
Yachty’s attempt to go old skool and ‘bring it back’. The off-key off-beat
auto-tune still makes it utterly unlistenable, but props to him for trying something
new.