Music: Damon Locks – Black Monument Ensemble – Where Future Unfolds

Damon Locks is a visual artist from Chicago who has been experimenting with sound for some time now. His new album titled Where Future Unfolds initially started as a solo project as a collage piece (where Locks pulled samples from Civil Rights era speeches and recordings). 4 years in the making, it became a fully executed musical project featuring an entire ensemble. Samples over drum machines, percussion and soulful, gospel choirs make this album a fascinating journey through the mind of a unique, important artist.

It’s difficult to even describe this project in a sentence or two. With powerful speeches being sampled over heavy drum machines on tracks like “Statement of Intent / Black Monument Theme” for example, make it a visceral and poignant pro-black anthem. “Which I Believe It Will” and “Which I Believe I Am” are both percussion and drum-heavy records with wailing vocal samples and hectic energy throughout. Where Future Unfolds really feels like it’s a 250 bpm heartbeat. And this, throughout the whole album. Tracks like “The Colors You Bring” are more melodic, with gorgeous vocals throughout the track. Heavy tuba is present throughout tracks like “The Future,” which sound abstract and unsettling, with abstract drumming and swirling synths and electronic effects suffocating the beat and saxophone that is trying to dominate the song. “Power” is literally an overpowering song with “Power” being passionately screamed throughout the hectic track with percussion, drumming and saxophone. The choir sings beautifully and recites a few words about struggle and black power. It is a mesmerising track that is absolutely captivating. This is the theme and tone throughout Damon Locks’ new album, and I’m glad I’ve been able to fully listen to this monumental body of work.

Listen to Damon Locks – Black Monument Ensemble’s Where Future Unfolds below via Bandcamp, and don’t forget to support! Released via International Anthem.