Phoenix-based artist Toby Tesla makes the most of outliers with .FIVE. Completely self-produced, these eclectic tracks were released this June 21. Some are brand new, others hold the echoes of Dream Master, his previous work.
.FIVE opens with a bang. “DONE FAST” sets the scene with a cold, immersive soundscape and whispered vocals. The brooding atmosphere quickly explodes with pulsating beats, while wrestling with the bittersweet sting of a fading memory, as in the line, “Can you feel it?/I’m nothing but a memory.”
“TIMEZONE” brings shimmering melodies wrapped around the aural field. His high, tender voice fits in the music with delicacy like it’s almost faded but it’s there like a persistent flame blown around by the wind but doesn’t snuff. The lyrics portray a troubled relationship, mixed with longing and resignation.
“SOTIL,” with its haunting 40-second soundscape, turns out to be an interlude that bridges the space between songs and hints at the depth of Tesla’s sonic palette. .FIVE reaches a turning point with “IN MY WAY.” The robotic intro explodes with sharp vocals and effortless rapping. The lyrics are self-assured and celebrate success and a not-so-subtle dig at those left behind. Lines like “Diamonds doing hula hoops, they two steppin'” showcase Tesla’s playful wit and his knack for crafting catchy metaphors.
“KINDNESS” closes the album as Tesla reflects on a past relationship with a melancholic undertone. The melody is relaxed, a stark contrast to the hard-hitting beats. His voice, wrapped and muffled, vulnerably concludes with a sense of acceptance.
.FIVE is a fascinating peek into the creative mind of an artist on the rise. It leaves us eager to hear what Tesla has in store for the future.
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Review by Naomi Joan