Band, 2024
Genre: Indie/Experimental
© 2024 DESKTOPICON
Reviewed: 23 March 2024
In a musical universe where the familiar reigns supreme, DESKTOPICON's debut album, "Band," emerges as a daring expedition into uncharted territories. Following the footsteps of his acclaimed debut EP, "OutOfSync," the Brakpan composer embarks on a sonic odyssey that defies convention and invites listeners to traverse the nebulous realms of experimental electronica.
From the onset, "Band" unveils DESKTOPICON's mastery of hip-hop production techniques, weaving a tapestry of sound that is both hypnotic and disorienting. Through the artful manipulation of samples and the judicious application of digital distortion, he constructs a sonic universe that pulsates with energy and bristles with innovation.
DESKTOPICON distinguishes himself through his bold fusion of diverse genres, effortlessly blending Kwaito, Old-school House, and avant-garde electronica. This fusion creates a captivating blend of sounds that feel both familiar and otherworldly, leading listeners on a vibrant journey through the rich tapestry of South African music history.
The core of "Band" pulsates with DESKTOPICON's fearless exploration of structure and composition. Condensing lengthy 20-minute recordings into compact 2-3 minute pieces, he disrupts conventional songcraft, embracing a dynamic and unpredictable sonic terrain. Though the execution may seem raw at times, it serves as a testament to his audacity in challenging norms and pushing the boundaries of expectation.
The album kicks off with a relentless barrage of repeated hats, immediately immersing the listener in a binaural soundscape that sets the stage for the wild ride ahead. However, it's on track 3, "I'm The One," where DESKTOPICON's bold experimentation truly shines. Here, he fearlessly samples a Tsonga traditional song, infusing it with digital distortion that veers into chaotic territory. Amidst the sonic frenzy, the repeated refrain, "if everybody else is crazy, then I'm the one who's insane," echoes hauntingly, leaving no doubt that he is willing to embrace madness in pursuit of his musical vision. After experiencing the intensity of this track, one can't help but marvel at the audacity of an artist who dares to push the boundaries of sonic expression to such exhilarating extremes.
One of the standout tracks on the album is "Wish You Were Here," a personal favorite that encapsulates DESKTOPICON's artistic vision with precision. Here, he expertly blends samples with his own artistic expression, paying homage to the timeless sounds of kwaito and old-school house classics. Another notable collaboration comes on track 6, where he joins forces with Sloane Bambizinto Sphepho. Following their previous fluid collaboration on "Angisho" in September 2023, which seamlessly merged gqom and electronics, this time they deliver a jazz rap song infused with influences from Melvin Van Peebles. The result is a testament to their versatility and mastery in expressing their artistic vision across genres, further enriching the sonic tapestry of the album.
In the title track of his album "Band," the phrase "whole album is a volk search" hints at a profound exploration of identity, truth, and meaning amidst the album's intricate sonic tapestry. Here, "volk" serves as a symbol for the journey of self-discovery undertaken throughout the album—a quest that traverses the chaotic and diverse landscape of its themes and musical elements. Each song becomes a stepping stone in this introspective odyssey, as he navigates the depths of his psyche, grappling with existential questions of identity, purpose, and belonging. Through this profound exploration, the album emerges as not just a collection of songs, but a profound meditation on the human experience and the search for authenticity in a complex and ever-changing world.
Furthermore, "Band" symbolizes his growth as an artist, transitioning from solitary creation to collaborative expression. By enlisting mastering engineer Des Grey, he enhances the depth and clarity of each track, reaching new artistic heights. DESKTOPICON's lyrical delivery is characterized by its raw, energetic, and unabashedly bold nature. Although his writing may stray from traditional structures, it radiates a raw poeticism that captivates, weaving a narrative that navigates the intricate depths of his psyche.
Clocking in at a brisk 22 minutes, "Band" is a compact yet exhilarating sonic journey, packed with seven songs that pulse with the vitality of a live performance. Each track unfolds like a chapter in a fever dream, inviting listeners to surrender to the intoxicating chaos of DESKTOPICON's sonic universe.
In "Band," he goes beyond creating an album; it becomes a sonic manifesto—a bold proclamation of his artistic vision and an open invitation to venture into unexplored territories of South African music. With its fearless experimentation and daring spirit, "Band" serves as a testament to the limitless potential of musical expression in the digital era.
Let's make some noise, folks! Drop your thoughts in the comments – your voices matter, and I'm all ears for what you've got to say!
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