Son of Andy: “Looking Up” – creating lyrical atmospheres!

Detroit area native, Son of Andy got his start in 2011 and has been producing music and beats since then. His first album, “Wendigo”, was released in 2017, and his second album “Looking Up” is available for Pre-Order right now. Son of Andy takes it to another level with his latest album. He’s on top of his game and easily out does his past couple of releases. Newcomers can appreciate this just as well as previous fans. Likewise, you don’t even have to be a fan of hip hop to appreciate what’s bought to the table here. For those not familiar, Son of Andy produces all his own beats under the moniker of Dagon, and despite the complex lyricism and delivery he pairs with them, his production is just as strong too.

His work here doesn’t miss a step and is on the edge of an entirely unique sound. Also, the guest appearances add just the right amount of variation. Any way you cut it this is a top notch release from a fresh sounding artist.

Part of the allure of Son of Andy on “Looking Up”, is taking in the hail of words he fires off at fully automatic speeds. His free-form verse structure and impulsive word associations have steadily evolved since his debut album. Son of Andy is entrenched in clever word play, creating lyrical atmospheres and not just quotables.

Right from the opening track “Quicksand”, this album is one line of dexterous prose after another, like a series of rants with loose threads being tied together. Leftfield tracks with extremely eclectic beats like “Elevators” Ft. Freestyle Fanatic and “Victory Pose” Ft. Mega Ran, is the affirmation that even in the always-evolving world of non-commercial hip-hop, Son of Andy still outdoes much of the game’s more renowned rappers and producers many times over.

Son of Andy work is usually comprised of various ingredients: jarring production with both atonal and melodic motifs, as well as rhythmically-inclined raps. “Looking Up” continues his work in these fields but adds an alternative aesthetic to his sound.

Dive into the Beastie Boys-styled “Elephant” and then the rock-tinged standout “Word Up” Ft. Ex1. This is Son of Andy on full assault, unleashing his talent through the production. The jazz piano and heavy hip-hop drum beat of “Dagon’s Interlude” sums it up nicely.

The lyrical exchanges on “Remember The Name” Ft. ATG, Freestyle Fanatic, Tha Villain, and Ex1, gives the album an authentic old school vibe. “Gifted” Ft. Freestyle Fanati has the same classic effect, while “Finch” brings in a bouncy head nodding beat.

Son of Andy’s approach to entice the listener relies on the constant morphing of the beats, adding more divergent sounds. Oddball clips, buried licks, and dusty samples are often drawn into the jagged beats. Listen to the final two tracks “Remember The Days” Ft. Buck Nell and “For The Birds” Ft. Ex to hear how Son of Andy and his alter ego Dagon, pushes the envelope.

The sheer amount of focus on the soundscapes often distracts from the lyricism, so you’ll have to pay attention. Maybe run through the album a couple of times first to savor the production work, then come back at it again to catch up on the rhymes and flow. It’s not a casual listening album, but the production touches, lyrical flow, and the attention to detail can make it an addictive, enthralling experience.

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