SINGLE REVIEW: Optimystical - "Blind"
Optimystical brings an eclectic approach to hip-hop with “Blind”
Written by JD Walker
Rap and hip-hop have taken the music industry by storm over the past few decades, but what truly sets a new project apart is their ability to blend genres that wouldn’t necessarily go together - enter Optimystical. The 5-piece group from Arizona blends indie pop, rap, and electronica to create a sound that’s truly one-of-a-kind.
“Blind” opens with a beautiful shot of an oceanfront with a kalimba-esque melody. Rapper Kenyan Willis opens the first verse with a laid back, over-the-bar rapping style that incorporates a lot of subdivision play and modulation. The video itself has a beautiful ambiance with a camera filter reminiscent of scenes out of Breaking Bad. The group leads into the chorus with vocals from Cara Nassar, who added the indie pop spin that transformed the song into a unique sound.
The instrumental behind the vocals might have been the most interesting piece of the song, personally speaking. Different electronic elements combined with delayed guitar and heavy reverb gave the impression of an interlude that you might hear from Periphery. Between the instrumental and the juxtaposition of rapping and soft singing, the song builds great character and tension. This section of the song combines the production skills of Lyle Begiebing, songwriting ability from Tom Clifton, and guitar additions from J.J. Tusick.
“Blind” is truly a melting pot of different sounds and ambient textures. Between the instrumental and different takes on vocal delivery, the band can’t really be classified into one genre. It’s a multitude of sounds, and a summation of the different experiences and influences that brought the group together. Coupled with the beautiful imagery and videography of the music video, it’s a song worth checking out.