PHOENIX JONES - YOUNG PICASSO
Dan Tsourekas - 16th Aug 2024
Very rarely do you come across an independent upcoming artist with a keen eye for vast experimentation from their first releases. For Manchester based musician Phoenix Jones however, it comes just as easy as breathing. Throughout his newfound career, each of his first single releases varied in style, lyricism, vocal range and instrumental, raising only one question throughout; just how experimental would his debut project get?
Enter Young Picasso, a musical canvas filled with an impressive amalgamation of etherial ideas, surrealistic instrumentals and vivid lyrics. The direction of the album is made quite clear from the first track even - Earcandy - which takes the listener through a sonic rollercoaster of continuously changing details. "This one is for the trippers", and indeed, the 17 track project is perfectly described within this lyric.
Photo: Melody Peacock (2024)
The first half of this project is rooted in dark trap instrumentals, that are reminiscent of Travis Scott's Rodeo. There isn't a second in which this feels forced however, as each track seamlessly flows into the next without a massive contrast in between, despite being so different in content. It is quite fascinating how much originality stems from this project, despite the sound being generally conceived as mainstream. It is well crafted, and even better presented. The true colours of this project however blossom following the standout track of Young Picasso.
Come Around is by far one of the most, if not the most impressive track on this project. It feels like the perfect direction for Phoenix stylistically. It's dark, gritty instrumental and atmosphere sounds like it could be on albums the likes of Yeezus. It feels like a whole concept world waiting to be explored, and feels like his production and vocal talents are shown in full effect.
Alongside this track however, Ogbasaragi is a breath of fresh air, with amazing instrumentals and energy. Stemming from Igbo culture, the Afro-Trap fusion found within this track naturally flows with groove displaying the artist's profound connection with his roots. Moving forward, it is definitely an avenue worth exploring more, as it's uplifting spirit perfectly matches with the upbeat trap tempos.
The latter half of the album delves into the more experimental side of the sound Phoenix is looking to master. Each instrumental is brimming with creativity, and unmasks the more aggressive side of Young Picasso. With mosh-heavy anthems the likes of Pop Out, Koffin, and Be Reasonable, there is no doubt that when translated into his live shows, they will be met with absolute chaos in the pit.
The features on this album are also brilliantly placed within each track. Whether it be through Etheria's exceptional vocals, Kiz's flow, and Who's calm and collected nature, they keep each song fresh and surprising, and while they are not the only artists featured on this project, all supporting voices on Young Picasso are worth the listeners time and attention.
Phoenix Jones' debut album Young Picasso is a victory lap for the upcoming artist. At 17 songs it never overstays its welcome, and is a thouroughly enjoyable experience from start to finish. It is a strong opener for the artist's discography and a notable sign of the things we are yet to see from him. Never complacent and always providing fresh ideas and sounds, Phoenix Jones has officially placed himself on the map, and it will be a pleasure to see where he goes from here.