The hot scorching days of summer are here and in a sense that means the dark depressing sounds of winter are gone. Replaced with the upbeat tunes of pool parties and outdoor get-togethers, artist like The Weeknd, who’s dubbed himself “King of the Fall” and Drake, who’s label OVO (October’s Very Own) which reflects their preferred period of release, would normally set aside their music for the “appropriate” time. But Houston artist Dontaskgen makes his own timeline. “I like making dark music,” he explains. “And I feel that it’s best enjoyed when it’s cold out or nighttime. But that’s when I normally release my music, so I want to do something really different this time.” His latest album NOTTHISAGAIN releases June 25th and he will be hosting an album release party at Theory Studios that same night.
Dontaskgen’s music uses a multitude of different aesthetics to bring his dark sound to life. Deep tones equipped with a ground-shaking bass engulfs the majority of the songs, but it’s Gen’s airy voice and transitions to his speedy, doubled-up deliverance of rap bars that begin to mold the songs from the somber winter songs into an unforeseen type of summer club track.
It feels free,” he tells. “Like a bird coming out of his cage but I’m actually really scared to release this project. It’s so opposite from my previous work; I don’t know how the reception will be.”
Gen describes the album as not being about himself, but as a visual painting for the peers around him. A rising artist in the city, Gen has been witness to the various temptations of the cities indecent indulgences. Detailing scenes from nights at clubs or parties spent in penthouses, he sees the lifestyle that sounds him and how it is consuming others.
“I want people to understand it,” He says. “From my point of view, not just from listening and vibing to the music. I want them to understand the lesson I’m trying to tell.”.
Feeling distraught and with a sense of purpose, Gen is trying to use his music to speak to those around him. To be able to make them aware of the decisions they’re making and the effects that it can have on that person’s body, mind, and soul. The new album takes the listener to different times, places, and scenarios that Gen has experienced and gives them an outside view of what was taking place. Hopefully, giving them a new perspective that will help them be more aware of their actions.
Dontaskgen hosted an album listening party June 19th at Spire Nightclub to a packed venue. With an exciting set of performances, Gen gave the audience an early peek at what’s to come.
Album Release Party, June 25th, Theory Studios 4212 Emancipation Ave. 8pm -12pm
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