Out of the Black
Boys Noize
INgrooves
German music producer and DJ Alexander Ridha, better known as Boys Noize, has made quite the name for himself in the electro-dance world. Since releasing Dog Blood in August, a dirty-house side project with Skrillex, Boys Noize proves there is no slowing down — he dropped his latest album Out of the Black this month. It’s almost too crisp and clean, with each track washing over your subconscious one sample a second, an obsessive-compulsive robot’s dream.
Opening the album with “What You Want,” Boys Noize takes the opportunity to make a somewhat surreal commentary, “this is what you want, this is what you get, track one.” Take it for what you like, uninspired, or a possible social commentary. As time went on, it seemed more like “What You Want” wasn’t necessarily just a song about being the first song but thinking of track one as a state of mind, slowly pulling you in with the deep, meticulously measured beats as opposed to the lyrics.
Having said that, the second track, and first single off the album, “XTC,” engrains a blown out flow and rhythm of the beat, mapping it down to a science without feeling of dreary repetitiveness. Although, I couldn’t help but to feel a sense of déjà vu in regards to the topic of the song — no I’m not talking about some half-remembered evening of dropping, only to end up on an episode of CSI. For those of you familiar with the Australian television show, Summer Heights High, there is a song featured about ecstasy, and the initial chorus of repeating the word “ecstasy” seems to follow similar suite to Boys Noize’s ode to the hallucinogen. I know it sounds crazy, but look up “Naughty Girl (Jessica’s addiction remix)” and you decide.
“Circus Full of Clowns” is awesome. The minimalist beats and rapper Dizzle compliment each other harmoniously. A balance of beat and vocals woven together brings the seemingly low-energy track its own fresh, chill life.
Another stand out track for me was “Merlin,” featuring long0-time collaborator and Canadian grown pianist, producer, and songwriter, Chilly Gonzales. Having worked together producing Chilly Gonzales’ 2010 EP Ivory Tower, “Merlin” finds its strength in the distinctive sounds merging deep, blown out beats with a seductive flow that truly brings a sense of otherworldly energy. It’s like magic.
The album closes out with Snoop Dogg rapping on “Got It,” a testament to Snoop’s ability to stay fresh, even after twenty years of being perpetually stoned. I have to say, even as a song basically saying I’m still cool, Snoop manages to keep the ego under wraps, avoiding detraction between the focus on the art as opposed to the artist.
Out of the Black a great blend of mellow and psyched out sounds. One moment you’re enjoying a low energy serenade, with the next track getting you ready to mosh without any hiccups in between.
