We Speak Music
Devin James Fry releases his post-pandemic masterpiece ‘Retrellion’
Devin James Fry is pleased to announce the release of his new album ‘Retrellion’ this April, 2023. ‘Retrellion’ is a departure from his previous sound, which typically featured him fingerpicking a guitar, either alone or in the context of Name Sayers, the adventurous psychedelic rock band he fronts. The new album, which was produced, recorded, and mixed by Fry, features punchy, hip hop-influenced songs that are difficult to classify into a single genre, with otherworldly synths and glitchy electronics throughout.
Early reviews have noted the shift. “Is this post-punk hip hop? We hope so,” wrote reviewer Layla Merino of yourEDM.com, noting that with Retrellion, “Fry might even be creating new genres.”
The album’s title reflects that it is the product of a time (the Covid-19 pandemic) when societal norms broke down and expectations could be set aside.
“I wanted a word that felt like both retreat and rebellion,” says Fry.
Thus, ‘Retrellion’ was born. Some songs, like lead single ‘Black Rainbow’, feature collaborations with rappers like Brooklyn’s Chris Conde and Denver-based rapper and circuit bender Otem Rellik, while others are solo explorations. All were created using a bank of synthesizers and noisemakers including ‘The Jitter Getter’, an analogue sound effects engine Fry designed and built himself, and which is featured in the video for previous single ‘Purple Glue’.
One song, ‘Ash Ode Variation’, is an adaptation of the poem ‘Ash Ode’ by Fry’s friend and hero, poet Dean Young. Fry enlisted the help of another of his mentors, Chicago flutist Lloyd Brodnax King, to create the song and sent it to Young, who replied to say that he was looking forward to listening to it.
Unbeknownst to Fry, Young lay on his deathbed at the time, and Fry is unsure whether the poet heard the song before he died.
The ‘Retrellion’ merchandise is as offbeat and finely crafted as the music, and includes a 180-gram LP, colouring books, incense, lathe cut 7” singles, soap, and matchbooks. Yes, anything seems possible in the world of Devin James Fry.
Dmillyyy kicked off the month of love with the lead single, “Balance.” “Balance” was Dmillyyy’s first song of the year. The record served as a teaser for his new EP, Cupid Pack, which was released on Valentine’s Day. Cupid Pack is a five-track EP that dives into the intricacies of love. The EP is an eclectic body of work as it utilizes various genres of music, such as Alternative R&B, Melodic Rap, and Reggaeton.
Cupid Pack starts off with the song, “Thunderstruck.” The track is a record that features a wavy beat and Dmillyyy’s smooth flow. The sound is reminiscent of Jaden. The next track, “Balance,” is a fan favorite and for good reason. “Balance” has a bouncy beat that makes listeners want to groove. The record has a Drake feel to it. The catchy hook reels you in immediately. Dmillyyy cleverly sprinkles in some Spanish lyrics, which are a prelude to the third track on the EP. “Q.M. Interludio” follows “Balance.” The Latin Music interlude showcases the versatility that Dmillyyy possesses. The penultimate track, “WYGD,” is a downtempo, love song that is enchanting. The tune has a sample that blends well with the theme of the song. “WYGD” sets up the EP’s closer as “Madness” is another slow jam. “Madness” is the perfect finale. The sensual track embodies passion and love.
The EP’s introspective/extrospective take on love provides all listeners with songs that resonate with them. Although each song has its own flavor and unique sound, they still connect and carry a cohesive message. “Cupid Pack is an image painted to describe different emotions that may arise for particular love interests.” Dmillyyy continues: “Sometimes it isn’t that serious and just the feeling that you want to cherish. Sometimes the other’s existence makes you want to question everything and reflect back on your own life. Either way, both parties are living in the moment and letting that lead the way.” Cupid Pack is only the beginning as Dmillyyy has much in store for the year. While waiting for his next masterpiece, be sure to show love to the immaculate EP that is Cupid Pack.
Follow Dmillyyy on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dmxllyyy.
This review was made possible by SubmitHub.
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