Album review: The Internet, Hive Mind

The gradual dissolution of the maverick rap collective, Odd Future, came as a disappointment to fans who adored their avant garde approach. However, the rift gave birth to numerous other projects, including The Internet, who’ve cranked out four albums since 2011.

Their sound takes inspiration from former colleagues Tyler, The Creator and Frank Ocean, or perhaps vice versa.

Hive Mind oozes with sexual tension, powerfully balancing feelings of love and lust. Syd’s sweet voice dominates the record, backed up by a hard bass on each funky track. Their contemporary funk-soul style seems almost retro, but seamlessly, and successfully, mixes in modern musical components.

I’m torn between ‘Roll (Burbank Funk)’ and ‘Come Over’ as the best love-making track on the album. The former masterfully melds Syd and Martian’s voices to create an enchanting, sexy vibe. The title of the latter, meanwhile, says it all. Hot whispers fill your ears as Syd’s angelic voice beckons her lover over, for what promises to be a dirty rendez-vous.

In the debit column, some of the songs drag on longer than needed. Others stop halfway through and are reduced to a soft muffle before picking up again. However the album’s lyricism and warm feel make it an ultimately compelling listen.

Rating 7/10