Dessa “A Badly Broken Code”
by producer Jesse Splan
Dessa’s A Badly Broken Code (Doomtree Records) appeals to more than just hip-hop enthusiasts.
The Doomtree label is composed of artists with a vast assortment of musical knowledge and proficiency. P.O.S., Sims, Dessa, Mike Mictlan, and Cecil Otter are all emcees. There is also a collection of producer/djs from the like of Paper Tiger, MK Larada, Lazerbeak, and Turbo Nemesis. Having this compilation of talent enables the only girl in Doomtree to have an amazing album with a wide range of beats, harmony, and style.
From the first to the last track, mellow and fast pace drumbeats, electric guitars, stimulating synthesizers, and a vast array of orchestra instruments supply this fluent artist with the capabilities to keep you intrigued. The best element of the album is that Dessa not only raps but she also sings, and she does it interchangeably throughout each track on the album.
“Children’s Work” leads the album and instantaneously grabs your attention while Dessa brings you up to speed on how she has learned to survive from her early lessons in life. Lazerbeak produced “The Crow” which contains laced echo effects over the progressive beat while the track has an incredible amount of nostalgia and metaphors in the lyrics for all to relate to. One of the most intense tracks is “Mineshaft II” and is produced by Cecil Otter and features the beautiful voice and instrumental talents of Jessy Greene, a cellist, violinist, and vocalist. These three work together to create a clear and imaginable account of love on top of a clean and advancing rhythm with aiding and intense violin and cello towards the end. Additionally, each track has a nice transition and fade into the next making the entire album easy to listen to in one sitting.
Ultimately, this album features an extensive range of rhythm, vocals, and instruments that your little sister and mom can both enjoy. Dessa and artists of Doomtree Records have pushed the bounds of hip-hop on their albums by including sample sounds, featured artists, and orchestra instruments that differ from the norms making it easy for listeners of any genre to enjoy.
