Music Review for T.Q.D.

Music Review of T.Q.D.’s “Clench, Grit, Breathe”
By Brett


Proving that hip hop and rap doesn’t have to be ear busting loud, T.Q.D.’s (short for The Quiet Dude) new album “Clench, Grit, Breathe” is full of subtle sounds and smooth rhymes. But don’t listen to it without a decent sound system or you might miss some of the catchier beats and background melodies.

When I first listened to this disk, it was on my cheap PC speakers, and I didn’t really hear much beyond some of the higher melodies and the lyrics. This album didn’t come alive until I played it in the car or with my headphones. There the restrained beats and finer elements came to life. Many of the tracks have a much deeper sound and in some cases revealed an emotional edge that wasn’t there before. Once the finer points present themselves, the album becomes a pleasant surprise.

Without judging T.Q.D. by his previous albums, his vocals on “Clench, Grit, Breathe” are solid and consistent. For much of the album his vocals are fairly smooth and laid back, which complements the music. His voice also has intensity on a few songs when it needs to. T.Q.D. has a good voice that rhymes with authority and offers no apologies. It is what it is, and it fits the music more often than not.

Looking at some of the tracks more closely, “Baby Boy” and “Fall Asleep” offer up smooth vocals while “Fall Asleep” has a lonely melody that is quite catchy. “Contradiction” later in the album has a similar feeling while staying fresh. Continuing with the more emotional tracks, “Second Fiddle” carries on the emotional tone with lyrics rather than music, being about a misfit son surviving while the favored son has passed on. It evokes the tragic feelings of Anthony Hamilton’s “Georgie Parker” while doing something new.

Bringing on the intensity, “Hide & Seek” has a tough beat with haunting background vocals, while bringing out a touch of Dr. Octagon in the last part of the of the song. Followed by the song “Speed Bump” probably the rawest track. The vocals have plenty of pain and anger while the music is reminiscent of Ennio Morricone at times. “Pity” also has strong vocals with another excellent melody. By far though, “Saunter” is the most memorable track. The mournful cry of the cello provides a great contrast with the vocals and adds to the gravity of the song.

“Clench, Grit, Breathe” brings out some strong emotions for those who listen deep. A decent sound system is a must for this album, or you’ll miss the good parts of this album. T.Q.D.’s style is unique and befits the moniker of “The Quiet Dude.” Quiet dudes may be hard to hear at times, but when you hear what they have to say it’s usually worth listening to.

http://www.myspace.com/tqdraps