Alternative hiphop rapper/producer Daugaard returns with his new project Abstract Art, a 4-track body of work that blends expressive lyricism with elements of reflection, insight into life and struggles of an indie artist.
The production is rich, varied and soul-stirring and comprises modern and retro lofi jazz aesthetics with boombap and soulful vibes with an overall psychedelic feel. The first two tracks, “The Game We Play” and “Cut Me Loose,” set the tone with their mellow and somewhat ethereal styles. The former sees Daugaard detailing his bouts with depression, the difficulties in pulling through the madness and the journey to finding resilience and clarity, while the latter is a display of his lyrical dexterity and knack for straying away from the norm. Both tracks have similar soundscapes but are distinct enough with their musical approaches, as listeners are given different sides of his artistry. The next track, “Acid Surf,” is inspired by a drug-induced trip and lives up to the theme with its off-kilter production comprising gloomy textures, trippy guitar-like licks, downtempo drums and detailed lyrics that take listeners deep into the dark crevices of a mind falling down the mental abyss of no return. The final track, “Evergreen,” brings the project to a close with its somewhat summer vibes and breezy, uplifting tone. The guitar licks, pulsating basslines and punchy drums come together like peas in a pod and are underpinned by aspirational and introspective lines that remind us of the need for self-belief and change as life continues to move regardless. The track’s hopeful vibe is a deliberate and well-crafted way to end the project and leaves listeners with renewed vigour for a better tomorrow.
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