Ego death

Description

With these eleven new productions, Ego Death by The Internet is an opportunity to see that the Californian group is still maturing a polymorphous RnB that is quite unique. First spotted in 2011 with the Odd Future label, known for housing a legion of young talents with bold projects (its latest major promoters are Tyler the Creator and Earl Sweatshirt), The Internet seemed to stand out from the rest of the collective musically. There we discovered the group’s pillars — singer and songwriter Syd Kyd and the synth man and producer Matt Martians. Despite a successful start, they did not shine as much as their Los Angeles peers. Was it because of an indefinable kind of music? Perhaps. Not really a big deal in the end, because the group is not trying to please. And that is exactly what Ego Death is about. The sonic identity developed by the group confirms a rather rare singularity. Able to juggle classic RnB instrumentals, old school melodies, or more uneven rhythms just as well, their approach often feeds on the old and the “new.” Nothing extraordinary in itself, but this time there is a particular freshness. The Internet also owes this ambivalence to new musicians (and to numerous collaborations) who have come to bring a bit of solidity to the productions. There are quite a few jazz rhythmic foundations, accompanied by the simple and effective chords of guitars and synths, while also slipping into dark and electrified colors. Above that, Syd the Kyd weaves the harmony of the melodies, delicately, with her vigorous nonchalance. A bit like a master of the genre such as d’Angelo might dare to do, but in female form. The result gives the impression of an undeniable creation, one that is hard to describe as the blend is so solidly built. Above all, it is very easy to enjoy. This album is ultimately a demonstration of music walking a tightrope between the commercial and the alternative. If this Ego Death defies categorization, we hope it is only the emergence of a found identity and a new balance that nothing can now disturb.