As a backing track or stand alone beat this would work pretty well underneath a poetic and reflective rap performance, provided the artist working the lyrics had a certain sense of character, as well as something real and worthwhile to say. The beat itself is fairly unique, not overly reminiscent of anything else, provided a spacious and somewhat industrial sound that is screaming out for a string of lyrics or ideas to accompany it and brighten up those empty corners.
There’s not much creatively on show outside of the initial loop, the only indication of an awareness of structural develop is these occasional moments where the music falls away – there are pauses, which could allow a hook or key idea to linger with a touch of additional focus. A little more evolution would definitely help it connect with an artist or even an audience. The sound works well, undoubtedly, and there’s no need to overdo the production with movement or change when the heart of hip-hop or even much down-tempo, industrial EDM is that repetitive, hypnotic energy. However, there’s always room for a few flickers of creative identity, a few notes of alternative height or depth, a few effects that showcase the movement through the mindset or story line.
It’s a solid beat and as mentioned, a strong and meaningful leading vocal would fill the space surround the instrumentation perfectly. The right kind of artist can bring this sort of rhythm to life, and in itself there’s so much about the sound that is equally original and loaded with character. Furthermore, the sound is crisp and fills the room effectively when you turn it up loud. The production aspect, the mix, comes from a place of experience and knowledge of the craft.
By Rebecca Cullen
Rebecca is a Musician and writer from Manchester, UK, with an MA in Song Writing
