Modern-day electronic sensation David D’Angelo’s work cannot be confined to a single genre, but the feelings he cultivates through his music are nothing short of a soulful expression of the human condition. A vocalist and multi-instrumentalist, he puts his talents on full display with every release, never afraid to take risks along the way. As he debuts his newest album “In My Own Words,” his titular single “I.M.O.W” truly stands out as a marquee single amongst the record. Emotionally gripping and tonally spectacular, it takes hold of the listener’s senses every step of the way.
The piece begins with an extended instrumental solo as the D’Angelo creates the track layer by layer. Seductively luering us into the world of the music the artist builds around us and making the song’s identity immediately clear. Starting with heavily synthesized keys, he adds strings, percussion, and a plethora of accouterments and embelishments until the melody feels whole and complete. Through this revealing process, we are given ample opportunity to appreciate each section’s contribution to the greater work.
When he finally takes the microphone to add his vocals, we are whisked away with the tambour of his voice from the opening line “I see you in between dreams. Distant memories before waters rising.” Sentimental, comforting, and provocative, there is a vulnerability to his musical style that allows listeners to fully commit to the music and the message. Through his work, we feel we can see into the artist’s heart and want to live in the world he sees.
Written by Nick Gumas
FOLLOW DAVID D’ANGELO:
