Album Review: Dread FM – Who Killed The Vibe?

Genre-jumping rapper Dread FM has made a strong impression since bursting onto the scene, receiving early support from BBC Radio 6 Music and Radio X. Now, with the release of his hotly anticipated debut album ‘Who Killed The Vibe?’, the solo artist offers a body of work full of brilliant, varied musical ideas, expressive performances, and high-octane energy.

Opening with the trumpet samples of ‘The Hit’, Dread’s pointed, urgent flow soon takes over, displaying the rhythmic and energetic style that drives the album. Gradually introducing punching beats and the deep, fuzzy live bass that characterizes Dread’s sound, the track continues to build a thick and intriguing sound, as comparable to classic hip-hop as it is to Gorillaz.

Setting the tone for the album, the title track and standout ‘Who Killed The Vibe?’ showcases the full range of Dread’s potential. Opening with a choppy sample, tight swinging beats, and a thick, fuzzy bass, the track progresses through swelling wah-wah guitar tones under Dread’s rapping.

As the track progresses, it enters a psychedelic mid-section where Dread offers some unexpectedly tuneful vocals. The track then shifts again into an epic, grinding, bit-crushed bass line that gradually morphs into punching drums, developing into the track’s explosive final section. Exercising the punk side of his repertoire, Dread shouts vexed vocals through a wall of distortion. A track that shifts tempo, changing from old-school inspired hip-hop to its gutsy punk, the title track ‘Who Killed The Vibe?’ is an unbelievable highlight that truly showcases what is so special about Dread FM.

Elsewhere on the album, ‘(space)’ brings an ambient psychedelic-rock-hip-hop crossover, while the previous single ‘Runner’, featuring Bones Ate Arfa, provides one of the album’s more accessible points with a catchy riff to die for and an authentic sense of drive and direction through its rock-hop instrumentation.

Later in the eight-track release, ‘Whats Good’ offers one of the more uplifting moments on the album with danceable energy and a surprisingly catchy vocal melody in its chorus. Closing track ‘Time To Shine’ presents a mystical synth-led soundscape, broken up by biting guitar tones. Dread’s vocals remain ever pointed and expressive, driving the track forward with a sense of purpose.

An album that brings authenticity, musical depth, and a hugely enjoyable and effective sense of purpose, ‘Who Killed The Vibe?’ highlights Dread FM as a special talent and one to watch as he continues to develop.

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