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Written byNick Trethowan
Unveiling the Enigmatic Sounds of Slackin Beats and Kamohelo: The CROOK EP
In a mesmerizing fusion of sonic creativity, Swedish Slackin Beats and South African Kamohelo have joined forces to craft a captivating musical journey that transcends traditional boundaries. Their collaborative masterpiece, the CROOK EP, is a 5-track project that delves into a realm where music and storytelling intertwine, showcasing their ability to craft immersive narratives through their soundscapes.
At the core of the CROOK EP are the featuring talents of British-Nigerian artist and poet Joshua Idehen, who lends his distinctive voice to the project, and Swedish artist Lune, whose ethereal vocals add an extra layer of depth and intrigue. This collaboration brings together a diverse array of musical styles and influences, resulting in a rich tapestry of sound that defies easy categorization.
With the enigmatic alter ego of “CROOK” at the forefront, this musical endeavour takes inspiration from comic book aesthetics and delivers a sonic experience that is both intoxicating and electrifying.
CROOK: The Villainous Alter Ego
Central to the EP’s narrative is the creation of an alter ego named “CROOK” – a toxic and enthralling villain that emerges from the depths of imagination. With continued comic book inspirations, Slackin Beats and Kamohelo have conjured a character that embodies chaos, darkness, and excitement. The track “CROOK” vividly captures the bass-heavy moment when this masked antagonist descends upon an industrial nightclub, creating an atmosphere that is simultaneously alluring and sinister. Its cinematic qualities paint a picture that could seamlessly fit within a thrilling movie scene or ignite the dancefloor with its pulsating energy.
Spacey, Dreamy, and Otherworldly Soundscapes
Throughout the EP, the music invites listeners on a cosmic journey through spacey and dreamy soundscapes. The fusion of ambient textures and low-hanging vocals creates an immersive experience that transports the audience to alternate dimensions. The intricate production nuances weave a delicate balance between tranquility and excitement, allowing each track to unfold with a sense of anticipation and wonder.
Exploring Time and Everyday Struggles
As the EP reaches its culmination, the fifth and final track, aptly titled “TIME,” delves into the everyday struggles of the protagonist. Joshua Idehen’s introspective lyrics playfully toy with the dimensions of time, blending seamlessly with the mellow, experimental, and dynamic production. This track serves as the emotional anchor of the EP, offering a reflective and thought-provoking conclusion to the musical narrative.
A Collaborative Journey: From Remix to Original
The origins of the CROOK EP trace back to a fateful meeting between Slackin Beats and Kamohelo around two years ago. Their paths converged during a session with fellow artists, leading to the creation of the initial idea for “CROOK.” However, it wasn’t until a year later that the track underwent a transformation – a remix infused with a fresh perspective, ultimately shaping the character and essence of the EP as it stands today.