Artist: Avarice
Album: Words and Sounds EP
Itunes / Spotify
Bandcamp
Elias-Omar, aka "Avarice" is a hip hop artist based out of Danbury, CT. He is also a member of the group 'No Definition', which consists of Lord Lucky Leftfield, and Divine Lava. Avarice is also a fraction of the conglomerate of artists known as 'The S.I.N.'. Avarice blends his unique voice with elements of jazz, ambient, and contemporary sounds.
On his latest release "Words and Sounds" we are taken on a journey through the struggles of being an independent artist, climbing above adversity and the negativity that surrounds us; while also digging deep and analyzing the controversial nature of police brutality and racism. Intriguing, thought provoking, and well produced, we introduce "Words and Sounds":
Track by Track
Anomaly 2.0
The word "Anomaly" is defined as "something that deviates from what is standard, normal, or expected." The perfect title for the unique blend of sounds Avarice has created on this track. Industrial beats mesh seamlessly with a cavalcade of smooth flowing lyrics. One thought blending into the next over top of an eerie bass and synth groove. Lead guitar, organs, and jazz piano playing wistfully in the background. "I bless 'em when their souls needed a medic, so I wash my hands, prepping for surgery"Fallen Angels
Emotive saxophone kicks things off, sweeping high over softly played piano and ambient strings. A fragmented drum beat creates a unique collision of rhythmic lyrics and atmospheric background sounds. Fallen Angels rings true, telling a story of staying true to yourself. Reflecting on what life could be like if music had not become a facet of everyday life. "happy song" when it doesn't come naturally. The track fades out into the jazzy intro saxophone rising and swelling with the choppy intro beat. "Trust me, no matter what, we gonna elevate"
Why
A driving drum beat, matched with strong straightforward lyrics "...and all I see is liars and deceivers, it ain't no surprise" commenting on how easy it could be to fall into the negativity of your environment and friends circle. "For years i recorded the battle within, my love, my lies, and all my sins", "caught up in the prison of the mind, systematic lies..." A true testament to the daily conflicts we all face, trapped within the confines of one's thoughts; Avarice finds a creative outlet to express the battles within and find peace through music.
Good Evening
Layered synth pads, a chill out beat, with ambient background chatter. People talking in a bar or large work space. "Rinse away drama in the moonlight", time to kick back and relax, Avarice reflects and analyzes his environment, the streetlights that light the night streets. Pouring some drinks, ridding yourself of stress and try to just enjoy life. "Whatever happens happens just enjoy the evening"
(See lyric video below)
Make sure to check out "Words and Sounds" on Spotify, and Itunes.
Hands Up
Aggressive and direct, "Hands Up" touches on the controversial nature of police brutality and racism happening currently in the United States."Ready to risk it all in just a second, and my crime? self-preservation..." The sad reality of the political climate we live in. Where "Self-preservation" could get a person thrown in jail, or shot by those sworn to protect and serve. Pulsing bass, and synth leads ring out as the drums crash in with explosive vocals, echoing the anger and outrage. Halfway through the song you can hear sound-bytes of gunshots and distant yelling.Final Destination
"Most find joy in your struggle...sit there laughing while you handle your grind". Beautiful piano in a bright room sets up this hopeful, reflective song. Accompanied by bass and layered percussion, the song builds into each section. Flowing lyrics twist and tug at your thoughts, creating imagery and provoke warm uplifting feelings. Make sure your have your headphones in for this one, gotta hear that bass groove with the drums. "The duration of your dedication is in direct relation to your final destination, your final destination" A poignant commentary on perseverance and focusing on what's important to you in life, trusting that it will take you where you want to go.
Make sure to check out "Words and Sounds" on Spotify, and Itunes.