Dax – The Abyss (2023)
Known for thought-provoking lyrics wrapped in soulful rhymes, US-based rapper Dax can intoxicate you while keeping you fully aware of the profound themes. Along with his performances at notable festivals including the Calgary Stampede and Ottawa Blues Festival, Dax is turning heads with his musical prowess beyond the stage. With coverage from international publications, radio stations and playlists, Dax’s reach goes far beyond his North American borders.
When I imagine hip-hop or rap artists, I tend to lean towards the iconic sounds of Eminem and Tupac. Snoop Dogg loops in with his obscure vocals, but my reference is often Eminem. Dax reminds me of Marshall Mathers in his Slim Shady era. Powerful, raw and oddly soothing; however, the poignancy of his forceful lyrics seems to outweigh any mellifluous calm. I came across this forceful nature in Dax’s single ‘The Abyss’.
Taken from his seven-track album What is life?, ‘The Abyss’ showcases Dax’s diversity and obscurity. Filled with angst, aggression and ferocious irritability with life, the embittered lyrics are executed with a scorching forcefulness. While there is a ball of rage bubbling in the song, the melody brings a sense of sincerity. What is truly intriguing is how this soulful breath of air tinges the song with hopeful charm but its heaviness enhances the poison within.
Sophisticated and elegant, the production of ‘The Abyss’ shows maturity; however, there is a rawness slathered across the melody. It is like having a bold painting of bright colours but flinging darkness across making it rugged, rough and heartbreakingly poignant. Dax explains that ‘The Abyss’ is “about a place I would constantly escape to in my life that I eventually got stuck in…” Is this the line between colour and darkness? All I know is it resonates on a deeper level with intense intimacy evoking a gut-wrenching tear while screaming out in anger.
For more from Dax, check out his official website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Spotify.
This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator
