sound fx-empathy

 

I can rest assured that Sound FX will make music that I’m trying to hear. The Riverside, California duo has been at it for a few years now. When they started out, they seemed so mature in their musical process. Instead of focusing on shallow subjects, they remained steadfast in their song of complexity over simple-yet-effective rhythms. Thus, after releasing quite a few freebie singles, Empathy is just another chapter in the life of two musicians trying to live the dream.

 

Lyrically, the Sound FX duo remains potent albeit monotone. There aren’t any rapid fire flows and usage of extreme verbiage. Instead, their lyrics induce a mellow vibe that allows one to meditate their minds into the music. In songs like the “all’s well that ends well” repeating “Apathy”, the Sade sampled “Dying to Survive”, and the ambient sounds of “Golden” follow the soothing atmosphere that is consistently carried throughout.  Thus, the lyrics remain truthful to life and easy on the ears.

 

The production on the album, being the eternal highlight of the album, rarely disappoints. Not taking anything away from the lyrics; those remained pretty effective. However, with tracks like “Eternal” (which is nearly an instrumental all in itself), “Last Chapter”, and “Now and Forever”, the sound doesn’t waver from being mellow and, at times, warped and synthesized instrumentals for Dupree and Maddy McFly’s to paint pictures over. This sound isn’t for those trying to beat down subwoofers through the hood. This sound is for consummate riding while thinking and relaxing.

 

Outside of a few misplaced sampled choruses on “Road Less Traveled” and “Slumber Party”, Empathy is pretty good for the type of music that it is. Sound FX relies on lyrics that are meant for listening and production that enhances those words. The words are effective enough without being overly nimble. The production is engaging and consistent. From here, Sound FX can hopefully garner enough attention to carve a niche in the rap game.

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