Breaking hiatus, indie RnB act Beyond the Midwest has put out a strong message with his latest album "The Comeback": it's far from the usual braggadocios hip-hop that sells, rather trading slick trap beat with experimental sonics plenty in grit, heightening the blunt performances lending more ingenuity to this project.
The album is the outcome of year-long efforts from the American alias, diaristic in expressing the self-doubt, angst, and other insecurities that plagued the artist; and like a skilled creative, he turned this situation around and let such frustrations be the sole motivator instead. Despite limitations in recording equipment, Beyond the Midwest has pushed boundaries with constant improvisations; the tracks are abundant with uncanny effects in the production department, and the homespun vocals stand out with originality.
"Sleepless Nights" marks the onset, delivering a sequence of slinking hats and stomping 808s; a somber guitar plays in the backdrop. The rap flow doesn't falter while narrating what life's nightmarish tragedies have inflicted on the mind of its author. It doesn't get any bubbly: "Tamagotchi Friends," the third track on the LP, the emo vocals are unflinchingly frank about drowning loneliness in the social media-driven society and the endless anxiety following it. Introducing with lo-fi experimentation is "Letter to Myself" which gets heartfelt with its downbeat temper and bleeding, grainy textures, catapulted by a smattering of 808s; the track is consolatory, proclaiming itself as a "love letter to myself," a sliver of hope during rough patches.
"Maybe Someday" takes a ruthless tone, its protagonist hardened by the disappointing and unforgiving reality. The gutsy and raw-throated vocals instantly ignite a sense of not giving up easily, as the beat turns epic with cinematic drums accentuating the cadence every now and then. Marking the finale, "See Me" urges not to rush the process, and rather appreciate the small wins so far. The minimal sound design here remains subdued, the vocals equal parts distressed and comforting.
"The Comeback" doesn't shy from airing out the ugly truths, not holding back in expressing the thorny troubles that life can throw at any of us, yet we can take inspiration from those pains and overthrow such obstacles, ultimately becoming a better version of ourselves.
Listen to "The Comeback" on Spotify, and stay tuned with Beyond the Midwest and his upcoming projects on Instagram.
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