Rapper Sadistik and producer Kno of CunninLynguists have connected for an expansive new album titled Bring Me Back When The World Is Cured, following up their previous joint LP- 2015's Phantom Limbs. With storied histories in underground hip-hop, as well as similar tastes for cerebral, dark sonics, the pairing of the rapper and producer feels like a match that was meant to be. Their chemistry shines throughout, as Sadistik’s ruminative, melancholic lyricism and Kno’s post-apocalyptic soundscapes enhance each other symbiotically. Touching on themes of social isolation, environmental change, and more across 18 otherworldly tracks, this record offers an eclectic, poignant reflection of our modern times.
After the psychedelic intro “Burning Suns”, “You Don’t Know” finds the album opening with a moody, sweeping soundscape beginning with creeping guitars drenched in reverb. Eery, ethereal vocal samples are then added to give the track a deeply layered feel, underscored by raw drums. This instrumental from Kno creates a mercurial backdrop for Sadistik’s emotive, vividly descriptive lyricism, as he weaves together powerful verses full of dystopian imagery. “The Earth Was Empty” finds the duo exploring a much different sound, with an ethereal, progressive instrumental centred around dramatic chimes and glitchy drums. Sadistik enters with verses that intriguingly pair calmness with an undertone of urgency, lacing complex rhymes atop the idiosyncratic instrumental.
Songs like “Apple Valley” and “Carnelian” take on a more pastoral tone through organic guitars and keys, differing from the bleaker moods of the previous tracks. Showcasing both Kno and Sadistik’s admirable versatility, these songs are evocative and ornate both lyrically and sonically. “Neptune Skin” makes for an album highlight- a grand and spacey track with soaring, distorted synths contrasting refreshingly with light, luminous acoustic guitars. “Where You Want Me” sounds beautifully cavernous, doubling down on the reverb-soaked instrumentation that frequents the LP, while “Mulholland Drive” feels carefree and happy, once again providing a prime example of the duo’s ability to remain consistently versatile. The album closes on a high note with the grand, powerful sound of the aptly titled “GODMODE”, which crescendos with raw energy before the pensive outro “Serpens (Trial of Lucifer)” finds Sadistik delivering some of his most vivid, thought-provoking lyricism on the project atop a dazzling, layered instrumental from Kno.
The latest from underground veterans Sadistik and Kno, Bring Me Back When The World Is Cured is an offering that is epic in sound, subject matter, and scale. An eclectic album primarily centred around dark, ruminative soundscapes with dashes of luminous beauty, this album finds the two artists sharing a natural chemistry that translates to an engaging listening experience throughout, featuring intriguing surprises at every turn.
Connect with Sadistik: Spotify | Instagram | Twitter
Connect with Kno: Spotify | Instagram | Twitter
