July 19, 2023
Gunna, a mainstream rapper, just released a new album containing a #1 “Billboard Hot 100” hit song called “fukumean” despite the current controversy around his name. Gunna was arrested back in May....
Read moreJuly 19, 2023
Everyone knows Tik Tok as the app that blew up during COVID as a way for people to create and share short videos for others to enjoy. The video’s posted range from funny skits, dances, lip sync.....
Read moreJuly 19, 2023
The mastermind behind the overwhelmingly successful album, Sour, the 20-year-old Olivia Rodrigo comes back into the spotlight with a new heart wrenching single, ‘Vampire’ and the...
Read moreJuly 18, 2023
Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse took the world by storm with its groundbreaking animation, immersive storytelling and captivating visuals . One of the key elements that contributed to the succe...
Read moreJune 12, 2023
Barbados-born superstar Rihanna has left an indelible mark on the music industry with her iconic sound, versatile talent, and fearless attitude. Her music has become a cultural phenomenon....
Read moreMay 31, 2023
Capturing millions with a unique sound and compelling personality in an ever-evolving world of contemporary music. Very few artists have been able to do it....
Read moreMay 25, 2023
Legendary singer-songwriter Taylor Swift has captivated the world with her haunting lyrics and infectious melodies. Behind her numerous chart hits lies an intriguing songwriting process.....
Read moreMay 18, 2023
Kiana Ledé has been rocking in the R&B scene and her latest single “Jealous” continues this trend. The other day, Sonical.ly had the chance to sit down and talk with Ledé about her musical journey.
Read moreMay 18, 2023
Anyone within the hip-hop scene knows the name, DJ Khalil. He gained popularity for both his music-producing and DJing skills. The other day, Sonical.ly had a chance to sit down and talk with DJ Khal
Read moreMay 7, 2023
Copyright infringement cases are very much on the rise in the music industry. Recently, Ed Sheeran was on the receiving end of one. Fortunately for him and the music industry as a whole, he won. Who
Read moreApril 28, 2023
Artificial Intelligence (aka AI) is not a new thing. It has been used for various purposes like social media algorithms and Siri on your phone. However, for the first time, AI is being used in
Read moreApril 28, 2023
From Kidz Bop idol to R&B and pop singer, Kiana Ledé has fully planted herself within the music industry. The release of her latest single “Jealous” featuring Ella Mai adds to her growing achievements
Read moreA Four-Part Odyssey
"Hardstone Psycho" has four distinct parts, each offering a unique musical journey. The album opens with the featureless cuts "Kryptonite" and "Tore Up," setting a powerful tone before Kodak Black enters on the third track, "Brother Stone." The first chapter concludes with "Attitude," a collaboration featuring Charlie Wilson and Cash Cobain. This track, which recently received a narrative-extending video with a cameo from Travis Scott, highlights the thematic continuity of the album.
Across the remaining three chapters, Toliver enlists an impressive roster of collaborators, including Teezo Touchdown, Future, and Metro Boomin. These partnerships enhance the album's dynamic range, while Toliver's unique voice remains the driving force behind the project.
The Rise of a Distinctive Voice
Don Toliver's instantly recognizable voice is a significant part of his appeal. His rapid rise to fame, beginning with his signing to Travis Scott's Cactus Jack Records, can be attributed to his ability to impact any track immediately. "Hardstone Psycho," his fourth album, feels like a coming-out party, encapsulating everything he does well while introducing fresh and exciting musical ideas. This album is undoubtedly his best release to date.
The Singles that Set the Stage
The anticipation for "Hardstone Psycho" was built on the strength of its singles. "Bandit" offered a stunning teaser with its classic rock sample and stuttering beat, while "Attitude" saw Toliver and Cash Cobain remaking a beloved Pharrell track. These singles set the tone for an album that is both musically bold and consistent in its quality. Tracks like "Backstreets," a memorable duet with Teezo Touchdown, and "Inside," featuring Travis Scott, highlight the album's diverse soundscape.
Solo Triumphs
While the features on "Hardstone Psycho" are notable, Toliver's solo tracks are where he truly shines. Songs like "Last Laugh" and "Tore Up" showcase his newfound confidence and vocal prowess, proving that he is a force to be reckoned with in the music industry.
Final Thoughts
"Hardstone Psycho" is a testament to Don Toliver's evolution as an artist. With its bold musical direction, impressive features, and immersive gaming experience, the album is a multifaceted project that offers something for everyone. As Toliver continues to push the boundaries of his artistry, fans can look forward to even more innovative and exciting music in the future.
What can aspiring artists learn?
Don Toliver's multifaceted approach in "Hardstone Psycho" offers invaluable lessons for new and up-and-coming artists. His ability to blend genres like hip-hop, R&B, and rock creates a unique sound, highlighting the importance of genre experimentation. The innovative production techniques and dynamic features from rising stars to legendary artists demonstrate the value of creative collaborations and strategic feature selection. Toliver's recognizable voice and vocal versatility, combined with a cohesive narrative and emotional depth, showcase how artists can maintain listener engagement and convey genuine emotion. Integrating strong visual elements, as seen in his narrative-extending videos, enhances the overall artistic experience. Balancing solo tracks with collaborations further solidifies his presence as a solo artist while benefiting from the strengths of others. Aspiring musicians can learn from these strategies to create innovative, engaging music that resonates widely.