Passion, Pain and Demon Slayin

 

 Abandoning his frequented cadence of melodic grief; Cudi brings forth a different embodiment of his pain through a selection of eclectic songs that personifies the feeling of ecstasy. Both figuratively and literally. 

After introducing us to his most experimental self in ‘Speedin bullet to heaven’ , Cudi doesn't fail to continuously surprise his listeners with the versatility of his sound. Layered in an ambient flow of melodic lessons, “Passion, Pain and Demon Salyin'' shows Cudi doesn't always have to be serious to produce a well grounded piece of work. An album that consists of a string of psychedelic schooling, it's clear that Cudis expanded to a different level of consciousness, and he's having fun with it too. 

Opening with the upbeat ‘Frequency’ listeners are immediately put in a trance; obviously intentional as Cudi makes sure you know you're about to start your trip. A song that sets the tone for the whole album ‘Frequency’ is not far from classic Cudi, just with a little twist. 

Not afraid to speak on the influence that shrooms have on his musical process, Cudi has always spoken on how his trips have allowed him to adapt to different perspectives on situations and feelings, hallucinogenic mushrooms have had a constant impact in Cudi's personal growth. Clearly, Cudis personal idea of fun co-exists with the intake of some sort of psychedelic “Couple girls, couple stories and a couple shrooms”. ‘Frequency’ in itself is a song to dance to with its colourful production meticulously curated by Plain Pat and Mike Dean although contrasting in its lyrics with content that isn't as vibrant. 

It's apparent throughout this album that his intention is still applicable to his purpose; to remind people they aren't alone. Although Cudis managed to escape his continuous cycle of depression it's definite that Cudi is still actively fighting off his inner demons (hence the album title). Following along the trip we are brought in to stand-in on a psychedelic sermon in ‘Swim in the light” a representation of Cudi's battle with drugs and depression and the aftermath of coming to the profound conclusion that drugs won't make the pain go away. A war within the mind causes turmoil within oneself, allowing many to initiate the tumultuous relationship between themselves and drugs. Cudi brings light to this on several different occasions, explaining how he even got admitted into rehabilitation before the release of this album which caused its prolonged delay. 

Coming back to his previous works in the song ‘Confused!’ Cudi states the complexities of his drug habits in the lines “I hate the drugs, but I love the numb”. Despite the fact that he loves the short term daze he makes sure that listeners know that he's come a long way from letting drugs rule his life, shedding light to the bleak truth; only you can make the pain go away, you have to take initiative in your own growth to see real progress. Referencing back to his own lines it's clear Cudi is moving in the right direction “You could try and numb the pain but it'll never go away”.  It's a similar topic of discussion in ‘ILLusions’ this time Cudi gives more insight into the darkness that continues to plague him, letting us into the works of his inner monologue and allowing us to sit in on his own realisations. A song that's leaning more towards his typical talks of sadness ‘ILLusions’ speaks on his own progression from being mentally disturbed and becoming a hallucinogenic fiend. Cudi does not wallow in self pity though he is melodramatic and this song is a testament to his growth, as he's learnt how to live with the monsters that live in his own house, understanding that even though he can't make them leave, he might as well get to know them.

Nonetheless, Cudi isn't trying to preach or take you through a journey of self discovery with this album, he's actually doing the opposite. Letting you all find your own meanings within his work and casually dropping hints of wisdom whilst playfully exploring different layers to his sound. This being his sixth studio album, shows he's quite firmly established in his career, he's already created his own niche; this is simply an extension of his musical playground. Songs ‘By design’ and ‘The guide’ both feature a collaboration from Andre 3000, which contain some of the best verses on the whole album, 3 Stacks ascends the album with his verses, proving time again his talent transcends even when its paired with the magic laced in Cudi's hums. Cudis' choice of collaborations with this album is incredibly genuine; working with people that he's fond of was a skillful move.Two features that are undoubtedly perfect decisions were Willow Smith and Travis Scott who both deliver flawless verses, without these additions it would feel like a loss. In ‘Baptized in fire’ Cudi speaks on the disadvantages of fame as he asserts more intention to his tone with lines “You don't love Scott you love the Kid Cudi”. The reality of being a stage persona is dismal; no one really likes you for who you are but who you portray yourself as. Something Cudi has said he struggles to grasp even as someone who's been in the spotlight for years. 

‘Flight at first sight/advanced’ is at the peak of the album, produced by Pharell Williams it includes a two part focus with an isolated Cudi on ‘Flight at first sight’ followed by Pharells added vocals in ‘Advanced’. Two accomplished artists in a track alongside futuristic production that brings a heightened sensation to the trip, all encapsulated in a song that brings in Cudi's two favourite things to rap about; girls and getting high.

The project's significance is its exposure, bringing more openness from Cudi and allowing his mental growth to propel his artistic development. Cudi’s on a different plane of existence now and he's entered new levels of awareness within himself and the world around him. Ending the trip with final song ‘Surfin’ he makes sure to keep the effervescence of his new found positivity present in this track. Again produced by Pharrell, this beat provides the song with an aura of celebration as Cudi revels in his success “Too busy making my own waves baby”. Cudi isn’t unaware of his impact on the industry and casually flexes his unwavering ability to create something meaningful. Amongst all this darkness he continuously searches for the light, carrying a torch with him to pull himself out of the shadows. 

Fats <3