If You Like: Tame Impala, Nao, Frank Ocean
Striking hard at the heartstrings is Demontcea Howard, better known as Unusual Demont, a newcomer to the R&B scene. R&B is undergoing a massive overhaul as it tries to keep up with the ever-growing space and demand for new sounds. Unusual Demont is the exact product of that internet R&B rebirth. With such a deep history rooted in music at a very young age, the path of music was almost a birthright. Taking themes from the vibrant and colorful background of the world around him, Unusual Demont paints a hue of colors in the most enticing way.
Last year, Unusual Demont released his debut album, Hues. As a gateway into the mind of the Winsocin singer, Hues provided to be more than a project filled with vocals. Centered on the theme of colors and array of hues in the human brain, Unusual Demont picks apart R&B in a way never down before. The project leads listeners down a path of pure adrenaline that makes stops along the way to reflect.
In previous interviews, Unusual Demont spoke about how much influence the current alternative rap and R&B industry has had on his sound. The artist went more in-depth with Daily Chiefers.
“Sonically, I don’t listen too much when I make music because I don’t want to end up doing something similar to somebody else. But I will say Tyler, [the Creator] has considerably influenced me, not even sonically, but Igor got a Grammy. It put a lot into perspective for me. It made me realize — so you can just do what you think is cool, and people will eventually rock with it,” Demont said.
The album has gems scattered among the cosmic hue atmospheric project. Tracks like “Ivory” and “Blush” showcase the artist in the most honest and bittersweet. The project does have moments that allow for subtle rap tones to bloom. It’s still early to see how much Unusual Demont will impact this new internet age of R&B but it’s clear he’s poised in a great spot to conquer.