MINNESOTA SOUND REVIEWS - 1/12/22
Review by: Jonathan Fuller, Writer @JonnyDarko3
Edited by: Andrew Perrizo, Owner/Editor @PlaylistTC
Top songs on the Minnesota Sound playlist.
American Cream Band "Cinnamon Roll"
“Cinnamon Roll” is an energetic big-band instrumental with glitchy undertones and funky rhythms. The track sports a vibrant contrast between experimental soundscapes and technical instrumental precision. The juxtaposition is captivating and compelling. Each moment of this song is packed with new and interesting sounds, flowing perfectly together in a psychedelic wash of harmonies. Overall an incredibly impressive performance by American Cream Band, and they make it look easy.
Papa Mbye "TELL ME THINGS"
“TELL ME THINGS” from Papa Mbye’s breakout EP “MANG FI” is a perfect combination of experimental indie and electronic pop. Chilly autotune, scattering hi hat samples, glittering synthesizer arpeggios and shuffling drum sounds collide to create a sonic landscape that feels challenging yet grounded. Amidst a fairly frenetic instrumental, Mbye proves yet again that he is more than capable of leading a song vocally. The melodies add warmth and a sense of stability with catchy refrains and moments of palpable sincerity. To hear more be sure to check out the rest of the EP “MANG FI.”
Twain "We Made It Thru"
“We Made It Thru” is a politically driven hip hop track revolving around racial issues and unrest in Minneapolis. The song has an electric energy to it. Twain delivers a cascade of lyrics with a tangible sense of conviction. The Instrumental is reminiscent of early Kanye or Timbaland production. There’s a timeless feel to the mix of drum patterns and samples. The track is interspersed with samples of a news commentator remarking on the behavior of the Mayer and the state of affairs in the city which adds a nice layer of depth and intrigue to the song. To hear more from Twain check out the new EP “Midwest Mayor.”
Slayvannah "What Dancing's Like"
“What Dancing’s Like” opens with retro synth stabs that immediately bring iconic 80’s pop songs like “Forever Young” to mind. Slayvannah Delivers a classic pop experience with prominent vocals, stripped down drum samples and iconic synth bass tones. The hook is strong, memorable and fun, with just enough emotion to move you and just the right amount of light hearted romance to get you dancing. The song comes from Slayvannah’s latest project “Pop-ography.”
Alley Mattress "Can It Hold?"
With the first few snare cracks you can already tell “Can It Hold?” Is going to sound nice and grungy. The song delivers on this anticipation with some of the sweetest crunchy guitar tones you’ve ever heard. The track has a distinct and incredibly satisfying garage-rock feel with currents of punk and psychedelic rock running through its veins. The song comes from the bands 2021 self titled EP.
Murder Curious "Thoughts & Prayers"
The cover art for “Thoughts & Prayers” features a garbage truck unceremoniously dumping the title of the track on a trash heap, appropriately setting the scene for the sarcastic punk attitude of the song. The song prominently features witty and aggressive lyrics commenting on the state of the modern world over a breakneck instrumental. Scratchy guitars, frenetic drums and a healthy dose of distortion provide a gnarly sonic landscape that will get your blood pumping and your head banging. “Thoughts & Prayers” is Murder Curious’ first official release.
