Joey LaBeija’s new track “Less Than Three” is an excavation of feeling. It’s a soundscape that feels deeply individual yet universally evocative. After retreating to work behind the scenes, the accomplished producer, vocalist, DJ, and sound director is back. Renowned for his innovative work as sound director for Mowalola’s signature fashion shows and Frank Ocean’s DJ sets, Joey’s latest offering cements his status as an artist at the forefront of alternative R&B.
“Less Than Three” unfolds like a sonic odyssey and is a result of an organic process in which guitar pedals were looped into more incredible and more unexpected manifestations of the fervor of the moment. On the track, downtempo beats and experimental layers cohere into a lush but haunting atmosphere. Signature vocal effects enhance its brooding power and the exchange between ominous synths and grainy instrumentation suckers listeners into a space where surrender becomes beautiful.
The craftsmanship in every aspect of this release shines through LaBeija’s hand. While remaining individualistic, the track draws sounds from genre-defying progenitors like Coucou Chloe and Sega Bodega. It’s a nod to his skill in merging harsh sonic palettes with stark vulnerability, yielding a sound that envelopes you and refuses to let go in the days after the final note.
“Less Than Three” is a love letter to the beauty of release, the catharsis of pain, and the contradictions that make us who we are. With this track, Joey LaBeija connects the alien and familiar, forming a sound as alluring as it is novel.
A seismic return for an artist pushing against the edges of contemporary music, “Less Than Three” is a must-listen for anyone looking for depth, emotion, and a bit of the unexpected.
Stream Joey LaBeija's “Less Than Three” on Spotify.
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