OWSLA-signed trio Monsta releases self-titled EP
Producers Rocky and Rufio’s bass-heavy pop beats weave around the soulful vocals of Skaar to create the harmonious tunes of Monsta. The trio, who was discovered by Skrillex and signed to OWSLA, released its debut self-titled EP today. Made up of three original productions and three epic remixes, the compilation will tickle the ears of dubstep and pop fans alike.
Beginning with the opening track “Hold On,” listeners can hear the power behind Skaar’s silky androgynous voice. The original cut creeps into a muffled bubbling bassline to emphasize Skaar’s every echo before a rework by Skrillex and Nero comes up later on the EP. “Messiah” and “Where Did I Go” precede the list of heavyweight remixes, both of which give listeners melodic instrumental beats laced by Skaar’s seemingly signature vocal hooks.
The already-stunning originals are followed by remixes by a laundry list of bass production royalty. First the “Hold On” Remix—a stand out on the EP—speeds up the tempo before unloading a hard drum and bass beat. The Skrillex and Nero production boosts Skaar’s vocals to hit listeners in the face at every bass dive. “Messiah” remixed by Alvin Risk, trails the Skrillex and Nero gut-wrencher. Risk lays down a squealing electro line which bounces off Skaar’s hums with ease before Dillon Francis and Kill Paris finish the EP. The two producers collaborate to turn “Where Did I Go” into a synthesized beat, bursting with electro flavor.
It is clear Skaar’s commanding voice drives Monsta’s music and the remixes pay tribute to his sound, while adding a sharper edge. These bass-driven producers give the over-saturated genre of dubstep a much needed upgrade with the fresh remixes. Adding the sounds of Skaar’s gritty soulful voice prove dubstep does not have to be the cliche “bass in your face” genre it has become. Leaving control to the vocals and the well-developed instrumentals give the deep genre an entirely new light.
Categories: Music