“2015 seems to be a huge comeback year for R&B as a genre, while at the same time genre lines are becoming more and more blurred everyday. A new wave of artists find themselves combining rap, with R&B vocals, dance tempos, or even half-time, trapped out drum patterns.”
Portland’s EYRST recording label brings some fresh new RNB music to the table from The Last Artful, Dodgr and Neill Von Tally. The Last Artful, Dodgr has an incredibly unique voice. To me, Artful sounds nothing like The Weekend Over the spaced out, slowed trap beats from Neill Van Tally. She sounds more like a Chance The Rapper meets TDE meets classic neo-soul on this Fractures EP.
Just under 9 minutes of play time, the term collaboration is definitely not used lightly for this 3-track release. The project was also distributed by former Seattle Prep star and NBA player, Martell Webster’s new label, EYRST.
While Dodgr approaches every instrumental with an ever evolving flow, stylistic delivery, and standout tone, she also importantly knows when and where to let Neill’s soundscapes breathe, giving added life to every song. At times very dark and moody, Fractures takes the listeners on a roller coaster ride of emotion and energy. From the bouncy Slick Devious featured track, “In Demand” to the reflective, spiritual closing theme “Foreclosure,” Neill and Dodgr truly achieve a unique vibe on this project that leaves listeners wondering what’s next for these two artists.
Available on iTunes, Spotify, and more! Also be sure to stay tuned for an upcoming Fresh Selects x The Last Artful, Dodgr project, plus much more music from Neill and the EYRST family on the way.
