Witch Prophet/Ritual Dictates/Factor Chandelier
Witch Prophet
DNA Activation // Heart Lake Records
On her highly anticipated sophomore LP, Witch Prophet delivers a hypnotizing mix of Ethiopan-jazz, hip-hop and RnB; cementing herself as a creative force capable of weaving multiple genres and influences together in an effortless manner.
DNA Activation finds the Toronto based artist continuing to carve her own path - sounding as fresh as the latest Kendrick but also familiar and inviting to fans of Erykah Badu, De La Soul and The Fugees. Each of the album’s ten songs are named after one of Witch Prophet’s family members, and inspired by biblical texts, myths, and the music and stories of her Ethiopian, Eritrean roots. At times harmonizing with another one of her own vocals, a bass line, or even playing off a saxophone melody; Witch Prophet evokes confidence and pride on this album, balanced with ease, relatability and intuition.
The album opens with vocal ad libs, floating overtop a jazzy saxophone riff before questioning, “Where do we go from here when the whole world is falling through darkness and we cannot see the light?” The opening line invites the listener to contemplate a deep, worldly question for themselves and before even knowing it, falling under the grasp of Witch Prophet.
Thrilling, expressive saxophone lines from Karen Ng stand out on album highlights “Elsabet” and “Tesfay”. Witch Prophet’s mantra-like repetitive vocals leave space and opportunity for Ng to experiment. Ng bends around the rhythm and vocals, taking turns being more spirited or restrained - a sort of dance of intuition.
On “Etmet”, one of the album’s most introspective tracks, Witch Prophet confesses in a relatable manner, “Iost myself trying to be someone else”. It’s a line that rings especially true in today’s strange times of comparison and conformity. Not long after, she bluntly poses: “Who am I?” once again inviting the listener to self-reflect along with her. On album closer, “Regbu”, noted as = Peace Dove, Witch Prophet sends the listener off with comforting final words: “Peace be with you, and also with you, let your tears flow, I’ll hold you close, let your fears go, you’re in my prayers” followed by a winding, swaying synth, before the sound tightly wraps and closes to sudden silence. After vibing under the spell of DJ Sun Sun and Witch Prophet’s co-production for slightly more than twenty-four minutes, this abrupt ending seems designed to wake a listener up from a trance; but instead of snapping back to reality and moving on to the next record, it makes sense to press repeat and fall back into the groove - this meditative, spiritual project comes to life with multiple listens.
- Greg Torwalt
Ritual Dictates
Give In To Despair // Artoffact Records
How much commotion can a two piece make with all their friends? Quite a bit actually! Rarely do you hear of eclecticism when referring to a metal album. Justin Hagberg (3 Inches of Blood) and Ash Pearson (Revocation) manage to bring all their favorite styles into the fold on Give in to Despair. The album features a stack of help from Danko Jones, Shawn Haché (Mitochondrion, Auroch, Night Profound), and Shane Clark (Bison, 3 Inches of Blood).
A preliminary album stream was hosted by Nocleansinging.com. I thought perhaps there actually would be no clean singing. They surprised me with both gutteral growls and some clean choruses. Danko Jones' assistance comes in the form of an introspective rocking chorus on "Poisonous Proclamation", sandwiched by a full-on rock n roll guitar solo and blast beat assaults. You get the picture. The entire album takes this approach. It's as if they are challenging the metalheads saying, "Betcha you didn't think we were going to do that!?"
Melding so many sonic styles can have a divisive effect on an album. I can't fully explain how they avoid this. It just somehow works. The songs on Give in to Despair are never boring. And, they are varied enough throughout that the listener is engaged from start to finish. That isn't to say this is an easy listen. Be prepared for all things brutal and noisy. You’ll love the grinding riffage on "Indivisible Mind". Be wowed by the almost title track "Given to Despair". Cower from the guitar and screaming assault of "Last Phase of Life". Take respite during the symphonic flourishes in "Extinction". Oh ya, there are a few strings and keys. (Shrugs…) I'm not even a little bit surprised by now.
For a metal album that is so varied, somehow that becomes the cohesive element. All the changes, both in time and structure make even the 12th listen a treat. Ritual Dictates skillfully enlisted help, played an engaging mash of styles, and created an album that comfortably engages a listener in grind, metal, and rock n roll.
- Drew Cox
Factor Chandelier
First Storm // Side Road Records
I’ve always been fascinated by sounds and samples. Layer upon layer. When and how combined create the most unique rhythms. Pair that with a variety of styles, vocals, and rhymes and you have the new album, First Storm by Factor Chandelier.
A surreal chill trip hop experience.
It has the industrial sounds of Tricky teamed with serious good lyrics and flow and it’s apparent it’s full of heart and soul.
I got to say I’ve been hearing some good music coming out of Saskatoon lately. Factor Chandelier has been in the scene for awhile but this album goes way deeper it seems. Touring for a couple years, fatherhood, and some deadly collaborations is how this masterpiece came about. It’s not your typical trip hop album..... it’s the sound of the future..... ever evolving.
Track 2 - “New View”
It’s the layers and layers of sounds and samples that come together to make a solid good rhythm. In my mind’s eye this one takes me downtown to the heart of the city... but it’s empty of humans and I’m cruising the desolate streets on my bike. That’s what I picture. Music does that it to me. Whisks me away to other dimensions.
Track 4 - “Better Way” feat. Ceschi
This one really struck a chord with me. It awakened the dancer in me. Not many know I used to be a dance teacher. Music and moving is in my blood. I must move to this one. Choreography running through my head. Strings and things combined with dreamy vocals then some serious rhymes that have great flow. I guess that’s why I keep coming back to listen to this one again and again. My definite favourite on the album.
Track 5 - “Lord Taketh” feat. Mestizo
You know that perfect cup of coffee. That’s this one. With dream and a heart string tugger. I mean with cream and sugar. The perfect blend.
Track 6 - “Underground” feat. Candence Weapon
Tight rhymes! Tight flow! Tight lyrics! Hard hitting! I might have to slide this one over to a couple hip hop teachers I know.... cause this one needs a music video and some serious dancing. I need to see someone dance to to this one!! I see it my head already. The lyrics speak volumes: “Know my name, but they don’t know me” I’ve been judged wrongly and harshly at times in my life but I keep getting up and fighting. Nothing and no one is gonna kick me down! The feeling of this one is Unstoppable!
Thanks Factor for the feelings this one aroused in me. Fighting spirit! 2020’s best trip hop album right here!!!
Give it a listen. Take it all in. Be moved by Factor Chandelier’s First Storm.
Take care of each other and let the music move you!
Cheers!
Noreen
