TNGHT - II

TNGHT
II
2019
Spotify

Hudson Mohawk and Lunice have often been credited with essentially creating trap. It may not be the trap you are used to these days that has invaded every corner of pop music, because back then it was a completely wild and experimental outing. Well the duo haven't changed much, not that their music sounds the same, but they are still only content when being experimental. This record is a masterclass on pacing, space, sound and production done to a T. It's trap inspired, but it's so much more than that. "Dollaz" uses some chopped up vocals and massive amounts of bass to create this almost vacuum every time the sound drops out. It almost takes your breathe away. Where the trap of today is irrevocably tied to big room EDM this version of the genre is far more expansive and experimental. Putting a beat on the floor is always at the heart of their work, but after that the song is wide open. "First Body" sounds like a video game soundtrack blasted through a psychedelic experience. It also sounds like some kind of tribal celebration based in the future if that makes sense. The freedom this record assumes is perhaps it's most engaging part. Around every corner is something new and exciting rather than the same old EDM tropes. Just when you expect a typical build drop the duo do something completely out of left field. Are there still tracks with gun clicks, explosions and Ninja sounds? There are, but they just feel more robust here and less like filler.

"What_it_is" is one of the most experimental tracks on the album and wiggles its way through record scratches and bleep bops. There are so many moments on this record where they make the interesting choice rather than the easy one. There are so many moments that come out of no where and fill you with excitement leaving you wanting more and more. This record may not be for everyone, but it sure as hell is for me.

8.9 out of 10