Toronto three-piece ensemble BADBADNOTGOOD are unleashing BBNG2 onto the world today. Their second full length free album, in addition to two live albums they’ve put out in the past few months (BBNGLIVE1 and BBNGLIVE2), this newest opus sees the group balance interpretations of songs that have become staples of their live sets, like James Blake’s “Limit to Your Love” and Gucci Mane’s “Lemonade,” with original material that showcases the group’s range light-years beyond most expectations of what a drums / keys / bass trio can produce.
The opening number “Earl,” aptly named after the Odd Future comeback kid, is a monstrous mash of drowning keys, thundering snares, clever bassline, and a saxophone effort courtesy of Leland Whitty. “Vices,” premiered by OkayPlayer yesterday, may be the group’s most daring and layered song to date. Soft atmospheric keys lead to mounting chord progressions that culminate in a frentic climax, pulling back into halftime at the midway mark with a hypnotic melody remniscent of the best elements of UK bass. “CHSTR” sees the group produce a more mellow sound. This time, the running bassline takes centerstage after a progressive drum / keys set up and the song ultimately leads into a euphoric melody that keeps elevating into a final medley.
After receiving wide acclaim for their initial Odd Future covers, then going viral with the live jam sessions with Tyler the Creator, and their critically-acclaimed set at Gilles Peterson’s Worldwide Awards, the group is on its course to have a big year in 2012. Next major stop is a their much-anticipated set at Coachella, followed by some select North American dates and other festival plays throughout the summer.
“Child Soldier” is Boothe’s musical effort at giving a voice to the voiceless children across the world that are manupulated and physically “forced into the armed forces”. Written well over a year ago Boothe created the song after embarking on a nationwide human rights school tour. Inspired by everything he learned during that tour he went home, researched more about the issues and created this song for the people.
Since the Kony2012 campaign, much has been discussed and debated in the media as of late with regards to this global issue. Who is to blame? Where is this happening? How do we stop this? Who should we support? However, amist all the controversy, it’s important we not forget what our real concerns should truly be — the children.
Directed by Footage TV, and starring 10 year old KJ, the song and video speak from the perspective of a child soldier. The purpose of this video is to raise awareness and provoke thought. Please feel free to circulate broadly. We all have a part to play in the betterment of a world we all share.
