watchforcats is a one-man project with Ramon Velez handling the writing, recording and mixing himself. As a hip hop artist, Velez has been releasing rap records for several years under the moniker MCrv. Velez’s self-titled EP watchforcats is a departure from making rap records. Instead, you can see Velez channeling his love for smooth guitar parts and mellow sonic environments to give you an atmospheric jazz and rock recording.
watchforcats gets started with “snowleopard,” where some sparse guitars build. Next, some percussion and drum machines sidle in for a more invigorating feel.The mellow undertones really spoke to me. I thought there was a whole lot of atmosphere and ambiance to this track. Velez is a really good guitarist and his expertise shows here. The sparse guitar riffs continue on “moonlit.” More of Velez’s mellow sound builds for a smooth listening experience. The titletrack “watchforcats” is filled with wonky keys and the sound of cats meowing. There were some vocals on this song, where some spoken word sounded out. I thought the keys provided a funk twist to this recording. On “nightstalker,” more mellow guitars are realized here. The silky-smooth tones were relaxing. Next, a wall of radioactive guitars captivates the sounds. The change in energy will definitely keep audiences on their toes throughout. The sound of ocean and seagulls provides an atmospheric backdrop as guitars, keys and drum machines reel listeners in for a smooth sonic experience on “seacats.” The piano together with the guitars made for a great sound. Velez sends us off with this ambient closer. Moody and poignant, the smooth blend of soundscapes on this EP will be sure to send you to that sweet spot in no time. Though Velez says this was a solo endeavor (“I am the cat who walks by himself”), things like having live drums and bass could help flesh out the sound even more. Though, in the meantime, Velez likes to work alone for now, he could perhaps think about enlisting the help of others to bring his sound to the next level in a later project. This is a good start and I look forward to seeing where the artist goes from here.
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