deM atlaS

The local independent hip-hop label, Rhymesayers Entertainment, has a knack for discovering unique and lyrically conscious artists. One of Rhymesayers’ most recent signees, deM atlaS, certainly meets both of these criteria. His last record, “DWNR,” was a grunge-inspired lo-fi record that dealt with darker themes of depression and anxiety without seeming trite or overwhelming due to a well-calculated balance between hopeful and grim moments.

The accompanying beats on this record are reminiscent of those of late 80s hip-hop groups, De La Soul and the Beastie Boys, in playful tone and gratifying listenability. After spending the past year in France working with the alternative funk group, Ursus Minor, deM atlaS is overdue to release another record, which, based upon “DWNR”’s unsuspected likability, promises to be a very exciting release.