Much in the same way reading the band name Bomb the Music Industry! evokes the raucous, anti-pop sounds of Jeff Rosenstock’s old ska band before ever hearing their music, The Music Industry Is Poisonous aptly precedes the lo-fi DIY nature of LUCY’s latest collection of songs. The Massachusetts-based songwriter—not to be confused with MIKE, Dave, Carol, KYLE, or any of the other mononymous artists making waves at the moment—has unveiled an energetic collection of electronic tracks that feel cooped up in a bedroom, fueled by a sense of ennui instigated by the state of the music industry.
With each track on the record incorporating Juiceboxxx-like lo-fi hip-hop, more conventional pop sounds, and stream-of-conscious lyrics, it’s easy to tell a lot of disparate influences went into the project. We asked Cooper Handy to throw together a playlist of a few of those influences, though evidently—and understandably—it was tough to do so without filling the track list up with Elliott Smith tracks. See what he came up with below, and listen to TMIIP here.
Bill Evans Trio, “Jade Visions – Take 2 / Live at the Village Vanguard, NYC; 6/25/1961”
A heavy, slow, and soft track. Feels both mellow and intimidating at the same time.
Tippa Irie, “Is It Really Happening to Me”
You can really feel the excitement of an up-and-coming artist on this uptempo track.
Kodak Black, “This Life”
The emotional delivery mixed with the minimal beat and heartfelt lyrics make this song a hit.
Swell Maps, “Harmony in Your Bathroom”
The recording quality and performance of this one leaves a good feeling in the heart. The melodic progression is just different enough without being too out-there. Solid energy.
M.I.A., “XXXO”
This track is from 2010 but resembles much of what people seem to be trying to create at the current moment. Above and beyond in its catchiness.
Chief Keef, “2 Much”
An earlier Chief Keef cut where the octave changing in his vocal delivery sets it apart from other tracks in a special way.
Papa Kojak, “Hole in the Bucket”
The most clever take on a nursery rhyme I’ve ever heard. A powerful vocal delivery from a reggae legend.
Jaco Pastorius, “Portrait of Tracy”
One of the most tear-jerking instrumental tracks I have ever listened to. From highs to lows, this song has the power to bring a listener to tears with each listen.
Kwality, “Lion King”
This track wins the gold medal for dissonance. Amazing lyrics, a frightening, minimal beat, and unique vocals all come together to create a very special song.
The Raincoats, “Shouting Out Loud”
This is the first track off of their album Odyshape. This song has a beautiful and slightly spiritual flow that takes the listener in and out of comfort in an outstanding way.
