iies (pronounced as “eyes”) is an emerging lyricist/songwriter and visionary who is bringing a refreshing take on hip-hop, jazz alongside a socially conscious perspective. He now performs exclusively with his new band comprising Bassist Jacob Montano, Drummer Bazil Gillen, Guitarist Aidan Roberts, and Pianist Killian Bertsch. Their latest project Don’t Forget The Dot is an 11 track body of work that brings together musicians of different backgrounds to form a cohesive blend with a transformative approach to music making. From using alternative hip-hop, rock, jazz and experimental elements to challenging the status quo with insightful and thought-provoking subject matter, this project aims to showcase the power of collaboration and more.
From the moment the smoky chords of “Graffiti Swing” come into play, one is transported into an intimate lounge setting for exclusive patrons who have come to hear the truth under the cover of light. The jazzy soundscape comprising sparse piano riffs, shuffling percussions and slick guitar plucks, iies steps up to bat with his layered lyricism that explores the dynamics of life and the intricacies tied to it. This is emboldened by the rich tapestry laid before him and the progressive nature of their sound. This is followed by the playful groove on “Get Off Mine” which sees iies expelling the detractors and fake friends with lines like “I don’t like fake love man, I’d rather be left alone” . Again this is a show of skill between the instrumentalists and vocalist as iies’s rapid cadence is augmented by the paced guitar-laden rhythms and pulsating basslines. The icing on the cake is in the chorus section where the song reaches a fever pitch and that leads into the dark and brooding rock-infused “JunkYard” which is peppered by laidback melodic runs and insightful discussion about Palestine, its people and their rights. iies doesn’t hold back and points fingers at the larger system working behind the scenes pushing buttons to desensitize the populace on the horrors going on.
The project continues to push the envelope with its experimental style and progressive musical arrangements. Tracks like the soul-searching “Follow” use neo-soul elements with jazz textures while “Killian’s Descarga” is anchored on pushing the limits of cadence and lyricism beyond human capabilities. “Moon Sign” has a warm lounge-jazz feel with cinematic aesthetics that takes audiences deep into the action as iies pours his heart on wax and displays vulnerability. “Out of Control” has a measured and pulsed arrangement comprising sparse guitar licks and an overwhelming pad peppered with reflective thoughts and an emotionally punchy chorus that reminds us to breathe and focus on the important things in life. “Wings” is an anthemic piece bolstered by rich electric guitar riffs on the chorus while the verses have a mellow and warm vibe punctuated by iies engaging lyrics that dwell on human resilience and finding one’s true voice within the white noise.
The last section of the project contains a handful of tracks that explore different sides of iies’ artistry and life. “Good Viiebes” gives us a glimpse into the rapper’s life and his relationship with his band, friends and other characters who make up his world while “Starlight” pays homage to the sound that he and the rest of the band have created together. In other words, he celebrates their collaborative efforts and how they have come this far by breaking away from the norm. His knack for painting vivid images reaches a crescendo on these tracks culminating on the final track “Don’t Forget The Dot” a fitting track that breaks down the uniqueness of this musical unit and their achievements.
Don’t Forget The Dot is called a 5 point perspective for a reason. Each band member brings something unique and diffeent to the proverbial table. From the pulsating bassline, slick guitar arrangements, rousing drums, lush keys, vivid lyricism and soul-stirring vocals.
iies is a visionary lyricist who is known for his acclaimed Hip-hop EP Rebirth & Poetry in the Field.
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