By Ibn-Umar Abbasparker of Indie Band Guru
Self-reflection is an important aspect of life. It allows people to take a moment from their busy, pacing lives and examine their pure, innermost characteristics.
It’s also the theme of the new single “Hello Me” by alternative hip-hop group Oxymorrons. The song provides a musical perspective on self-reflection for listeners that’s sonically mesmerizing and inquisitive. At the same time, it showcases the group’s eclectic sound, one that mixes elements of hip-hop, R&B, pop, and electronica.
Oxymorrons — Queens-Bred Urban Alt
Oxymorrons was formed in 2009 by Queens-born brothers Ashmy “K.I.” and Dave “Deee” Bellevue. The group’s early days were spent developing their sound and playing small shows across New York City. In 2011, after incorporating drummer Matty Mayz, bassist Joe Jordan, and guitarist Adam November into their set, Oxymorrons released the mixtape STFU and Listen.
That project was followed by a tour with Gym Class Heroes in 2012. Then, in 2014, they released their fifth album, For Fun & Games. Later this year, Oxymorrons is set to release their upcoming EP, Complex but Basic. Meanwhile, the group is will on tour this April with rapper Waka Flocka Flame.
The song “Hello Me,” the first cut from Complex but Basic, begins with a euphonious series of synth melodies. Soon afterwards, the drumbeats make their entrance and provide a steady, booming hip-hop rhythm.
The Bellevue brothers then add their dual vocals that are maintained throughout the rest of the song. One brother sings in a soulful, R&B-vocal style. The other dishes out concise rhymes in a relaxed, perceptive manner. Accompanying their vocals are small, subtle samples of orchestral strings.
The song possesses a contemplative tone and a brooding, meditative mood. Yet, its true essence is presented in the lyrics. Lines like “Drifting out two traffic lights / And all I see is me” address the focus of this piece: the inner self and its desire to be recognized.
The caterwaul-like repetition of the phrase “Hello Me” in the piece really drives the point home. Meanwhile, the rhymes “Konichiwa / Let’s never say goodbye / nor au revoir / Stuck in the sands of time” display its strong connection to the conscious mind.
Overall, with “Hello Me,” Oxymorrons gives listeners a way to say hello…to themselves.
Hear more Oxymorrons here.