brother chess - Let's Play Chess

Brother Chess

Let's Play Chess
self-released; 2012

3.7 out of 5

By Eva Cantillo

Brother Chess is an emerging artist who pulls together tastes from various genres to create a very unusual and distinct sound on his new album Let’s Play Chess. There is an organized yet completely chaotic appeal to this album that will leave you scratching your head, while also tapping your toes. Its' an interesting fusion of blues and hip hop and perhaps some new age jazz

The first song on the album “Drugstore & the Kiss” is a song that is very hard to classify in regards to its sound. It has blues tones, jazz beats and even hip hop vocals that are all wrapped up in an upbeat production of sound. The lyrics and chorus of the song are very catchy and remind me of a good ol’ country get down yet the infusion of hip hop keeps it fresh and interesting. The next song is somewhat similar in regards to how it melds hip hop, jazz and blues, yet the beat is a bit more slowed down and solid while the lyrics are swifter and more energetic. There is a haphazard keyboard chord, which can be a bit confusing yet with the same token intriguing.

The track “Your Turn to Play” really showcases the artist’s ability of song writing. The song weaves a telling story and the repetition of “play…play…play” is very catchy. The lyrics are also a bit cynical and comical; “Order me lover, order me a killa…” Moving on, the next song “Pop-ups” is an almost hypnotic and creepily ethereal playful song that gets better as you listen to it.

Despite the scattered infusion of so many genres, Let’s Play Chess is an interesting listen throughout. There is attention paid to both lyrics and melody, and as the album progresses each song seems to get better. The songs have an interesting character that is somewhat compelling while also being a bit disturbing. The music is definitely one-of-a-kind and it’s hard to put a finger on what keeps you intrigued while listening. Brother Chess has got one weird game to play for you.

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