It doesn’t happen often to come across an artist with such a philosophical perspective on his music. His artistry seems to go deeper than his peers, while gifting him a sombre yet fierce aura of confidence. From what we had the chance to observe, that’s what To Hell With Tradition is all about. It is music that doesn’t overwhelm the listeners, instead wrapping them in its picturesque storytelling, offering reflective cues often delivered through witty metaphors. The project’s latest effort takes the shape of a 12-track album, ‘Blurred’, a very coherent artistic offering; a concept album, as you would call it.
Starting from the hopeful, vivid tones of ‘Drovers’, the record soon jumps to more upbeat numbers, such as Culprit, channelling pop and reggae while putting the attention on To Hell With Tradition’s inspired lyricism. To note, ‘Monument’ will take the role of lead single, a delicate and measured offering with an anthemic ending. From here on, it is a steady journey between retro keys, haunting melodies and uplifting choruses. We must say, the Germany-based talent doesn’t make a lot of effort to sound contemporary. And we don’t mean that in a derogative way, on the contrary, we are praising him. It does signal his full commitment to a personal artistic vision, not interested in external interferences. Not many can do that today, in a world where we are all fighting for attention and approval.
As To Hell With Tradition explains: “I never set out to create music based on considerations of what people might want to hear, or what might be of the best commercial success. I selfishly create music that gets me into those spaces I have cherished so much for all my life”.
And we approve. Recommended! Listen to ‘Blurred’ on Spotify: