This week's The Mic Recommends... series offers reviews of Tyler, the creator, Metallica, and Mila.
DOGTOOTH – Tyler, the Creator
In his first song since his Pharrell collab back in June, DOGTOOTH introduces a very on-brand comeback from Tyler, the Creator. The track pre-empts the release of CALL ME IF YOU GET LOST: The Estate Sale, the extended version of his iconic 2021 album, which makes a lot of sense when you listen to the song. It’s easy to recognise how DOGTOOTH would have fitted seamlessly into the original album, particularly with the featured vocals from DJ Drama, that ultimately trademark CALL ME IF YOU GET LOST and that era of Tyler’s music, with DJ Drama’s voice being recognisable in both intros and outros on every track. And, of course, there are the familiar tongue-in-cheek lyrics that encapsulate his music perfectly, signalling the end of this project but equally providing the momentum Tyler needs for whatever his next venture may be.
A full review of this extended album and its eight brand-new tracks is coming soon to The Mic magazine very soon, so stay posted! Tabitha Smith
72 Seasons – Metallica
After a string of mediocre to disappointing singles for their upcoming album, Metallica have struck back with 72 Seasons. Reminiscent of tracks from 2016’s Hardwired to Self-Destruct, the song combines the band’s thrash roots with modern production to create an enjoyable listen throughout. Hetfield’s vocals are excellent (especially given his age) as he sings about the loss of innocence that comes with adulthood, and one can’t help but join in with the infectious chorus and catchy hooks. Hammett’s lead performance is also surprisingly tasteful, delivering a solo deserving of a ‘pretty cool’ and not a single compliment more. That’s not to say, however, that this is a return to Metallica’s peak in the late 80s— far from it. Many of the riffs on here, although fun, are extremely simple and repetitive, returning to more basic chugging than I’d prefer. It’s also 7 minutes, which, although nothing new for Metallica, feels drawn out and unnecessary. Make no mistake: fans of Metallica will certainly enjoy this track. If you’re not so keen on them… I’m afraid to say you could probably find better metal elsewhere. Jay Kirby
Gold – Mila
Mila is not someone I’d encountered before this single fell into my lap (thanks to a recommendation on Spotify). Oh my goodness - was I blown away. Gold bursts with an explosion of colourful brass, and a sunny samba piano medley underneath MILA’s braggadocios bars. It compels your hips to move, no matter where you are (I got some strange looks on the tram.) The track feels effortlessly cool despite its tight, high-energy production, with these incredible Latin influences merging with 90s hip-hop style record scratches. For fans of Rav, but also RAT BOY, this London-based up-and-comer impresses with this one, which well and truly shines like Gold. Izzy Morris
Edited by Roxann Yus
Cover image courtesy of Metallica via Facebook.
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