Over the years, artist Gizmo has released a plethora of projects and tapes, each more aggressive than the last. His most recent release “Venom” is his most polished work yet.
Demonic, cathedral bells ringing, menacing 808s and intrusive screams; introductory track “Megalodon” kicks off the tension, with a production from Kingwicked. Almost as close of a resemblance to something from the Beatdown genre as music as it is Hip Hop, the ruthlessly downtempo track trembles the ground with every punch.
Third track “Birds Eye” is a harshly hazardous mix of stinging piano notes, overwhelming bass and barbaric raps. Emitting a dark atmosphere from the start, the track is produced by and featuring Killstation. The duo’s chemistry is flawless, with Gizmos upbeat, pacey bars combating Killstations alternative screams. The track is diverse without wandering away from the pairs signature sound.
The pulsing “Deathmachine” comes next. Produced by Xerogi, the sluggish drones combined with dark, acoustic percussion lead to an hostile instrumental.The opening line: ‘’Deathmachine, You can’t wake up this isn’t a dream’’ hits you senseless, complimenting the productions furious tone with pure vigour.
Blvc Svnd and Gizmo by @blancopages
Sixth track “Motzart” is chilling. Sampling the harsh, alarming violin from the track “Lusid” by Cutis Anserina, combined with blaring percussion, the track is bloodcurdling. Throw the stainless duo of Gizmo and Blvc Svnd into the mix and you have a deadly result, handing out fearful goosebumps after every bar.
If you didn’t know who you were listening to, you would think 9th track “I Cum Blood” (produced by MKULTRA) is the product of an underground thrash metal band. Distorted guitar riffs, reckless attitude and repulsive lyrics about everything from corpses to maggots. The track is gruesomely dark, pushing you to the edge of your seat.
Instrumentally wise, “U Don’t Rap Good” may be one of the most minimal tracks, however it is definitely one of the most aggressive. The experimental production from Lunar Vision consists of just basic percussion and various atmospheric stabs, however the 808 is intense it’s hard to focus on anything else. Gizmos relentless screams throb down your headset, leaving you uncomfortable to unable to stop listening.
Ending on Dutchman produced track “Symbiote”, the project rips out any energy you had left. Laying down bars on top of bars over robotic synths and thumping kicks, the rapper flows over the instrumental with ease; switching up his flow throughout to keep the pace flowing. Gizmo closes Venom with a punch, reminding you that his dynamic career is far from slowing down anytime soon. Listen to the full project below.