Brad Walrond's "Alien Day" is a sonic odyssey of Spoken Word poetic greatness
Brad Walrond's debut full-length album, "Alien Day," is nothing short of a cosmic journey, blending spoken word artistry with a rich tapestry of musical genres. From the pulsating rhythms of boom-bap hip hop to the ethereal landscapes of glitch house and experimental ambient, Walrond crafts an auditory experience that is both innovative and deeply resonant. This album, featuring high-profile artists like Jessica Care Moore and Mike Ladd, is a testament to the power of black love and epistemologies, viewed through a futuristic Afro-traditional lens.
Produced by the versatile Howard Alper, known for his work with Electric Powered Soul, GOCCO, and Nightcaller, "Alien Day" delivers lush instrumentation and thumping bass lines that create a cinematic soundscape for Walrond's powerful words. Each track on the album is meticulously crafted, ensuring that the music enhances the impact of the spoken word, rather than overshadowing it.
The album opens with a bold statement where Walrond's poetic prowess is immediately apparent. His words are powerful, weaving a narrative that is both personal and universal, capturing the essence of the black experience through a lens of speculative futurism.
As a whole, it pays homage to the roots of hip hop while pushing its boundaries. The bass lines are particularly notable, providing a foundation that is both solid and fluid, allowing the spoken word to flow effortlessly. You get lost in everything that’s presented, giving it a feel of cohesiveness and fresh originality.
"Alien Day" concludes with "Dance Make The Body Free", a track that epitomizes the album's aesthetic of resilience, though keeping up with the endless energy of it all. The composition is grand, and Walrond's delivery is impassioned, leaving listeners with a sense of hope and empowerment.
"Alien Day" is poised to make a significant impact on the contemporary music scene. This album not only showcases Walrond's artistic brilliance but also sets a new standard for what spoken word can achieve in the realm of music. There’s even a book that’s dropping in August of this year to look forward to. For now, click those links below to listen, follow along, and of course to stay tuned for more news.
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