Knowgood - ‘Vol 1’
John Michie had a listen to the new EP from Knowgood, entitled Vol 1. Here is what he had to say about it:
“Energy” - The song starts with a dialogue recording of a speech of Muhammad Ali sermonising his view of the world and his experiences… This speech wonderfully sets the tone of the EP. The politically charged lyrics of Knowgood offer frank criticism on the nature of American society and the conditions under which people must live. It is about the vicious cycle of violence, hatred and carnage that has claimed so many lives. The song strongly suggests that not much has changed in America following the Civil Rights successes of the 1960s and 1970s for all communities... whether your “identity” is based on race, gender or worker. Even if the laws state equality on paper, the reality has not been changed for so many. The song's catchy refrain, "Diamonds they come from pressure," serves as the foundation for the lyrics. These difficulties must be continued to be brought to light. Through this the song gains a sense of optimism. Things can be changed by the people, but it needs a coordinated effort. This EP's opener is powerful, constructed on a laid-back beat over a light synth pad that nicely matches the lyrics. The music gets your head bopping.
“NIW“ - The song opens with a creative bass hook that masterfully glides under the beats. The vocals are hugged by great midi strings sounds. This song has a much funkier, more 1990s feel. In this song, Knowgood seems completely at home and in his groove with his vocal performance. Ingeniously, spoken word samples are used to fill the lyrical content's breaks. The lyrics call for us to see the walls the powerful elites have erected to divide and keep us all docile. The song powerfully highlights that regardless of ethnicity or religion… we are being utilised like pawns in a chess game by the top 1%. The song emphasises the necessity of overcoming differences and coming together, but the only means of achieving this goal is via education.
“Sex and vanity is the new enslavement” is a wonderful line pulled from the lyrics.
“C'est la vie“ - Knowgood has a great vibe on this track. The lyrics continue Knowgood's highly contemplative worldview. It is a tune describing how he feels personally about numerous subjects and things that have helped him. sharing his knowledge with the audience. The song reveals his fragility as a human too. The lyrics are masterfully written.
Knowgood says about the song: “No matter what happens we will all attract haters. Despite that, you have to continue living your best life. Remind your haters “ C’est la vie.””
Single note keys slowly riff over the background pad to produce a melancholy tone that perfectly fits the song's theme. The music has a nice analogue warmth and is well-mixed.
“The Price“ - This song makes nods to both 1980s hip hop and the 1970s and for me Marvin Gaye. The tune is moved along funkily by the drums and horns. The breaks in the song are incredibly inventive. Knowgood showcases his rapping, describing how our society, made up of people from various backgrounds, destroys itself rather than attempting to pull one another up. Strongly worded lyrics draw attention our behaviours which harms not just some people, but all of us.
“Prey“ - Contains the first use of vocal effects on the EP, which when combined with the dissonant synth pads and the slow-moving drum beat, produce a disconnected atmosphere. There is a genuine undercurrent of sadness and anguish that permeates the composition. The lyrics, which are incredibly confessional, complement this. Knowgood is speaking truthfully. The confessional vocal feels subdued in this mix, the tone and sensation of being overwhelm are brilliantly constructed.
Knowgood says, “This track is about conquering hatred and the stereotypes that create our hate towards others. “If you come round this way,”- means if you come with hate, then you will become what you seek… prey.”
For me… This is an incredibly perceptive analysis of American society, the wider globe, its problems, and the wisdom gleaned through experience and observation. Knowgood is completely honest and examines the world around him. The EP offers advice on how we might improve and has a spirit that is stronger than anything that comes his way. This is definitely something I’d recommend listening to. Vol 1 is available today on Bandcamp, but will not be on Streamers until March, 2023.
