Swedish hip-hop artist ‘Don Gog’ embarks on a sonic and visual journey with the release of “I Feel,” the first single from the upcoming EP ‘Cybernetics.’ A mysterious figure in the world of music, Don Gog fuses the realms of hip-hop and electronica, creating an artistic trip-hop fusion reminiscent of early Gorillaz or Banksy’s approach to anonymity.
The track “I Feel” unfolds with a driving kick drum, enveloped by atmospheric sounds and bleeps that construct a captivating backdrop. Glitching synth elements accentuate the arrangement, while drum loops trip over the top, delivering a dubby and grooving ambiance. The vocals cascade over the beat, descending with a downtempo allure. Don Gog’s ability to blend diverse electronic genres into a cohesive instrumental masterpiece is evident, drawing inspiration from iconic artists like Massive Attack, Portishead, and Aphex Twin.
In line with the project’s commitment to a visual-artistic experience, ‘Don Gog’ collaborates with high fashion photographer and video maker Fofo Altinell for the accompanying music video. The video features a silver-painted female figure navigating various natural elements, creating an otherworldly atmosphere. With kaleidoscopic effects and tricks of the light, the video intentionally induces a trippy sensation, immersing the viewer in the unusual character’s exploration of the elements.
Don Gog shares insights into the creative process, stating, “I wanted it to feel like a trip, a journey in your head. To mix electronica with dub and blend the two styles… the complicated thing was to find the electronica melody that would work with the dub beats… It was challenging to blend two diverse elements into a single cohesion.”
The artist behind Don Gog has a rich history in the Gothenburg hip-hop scene, contributing as a DJ and producer in the late ’90s to early 2000s. With a notable portfolio of collaborations with Swedish, French, and American hip-hop artists, including Jeru the Damaja and Loop Troop, Don Gog has evolved into an enigmatic force pushing the boundaries of music and visual art. The forthcoming EP ‘Cybernetics’ promises to be an exploration of sonic landscapes, continuing the legacy of Don Gog’s genre-blurring, artistic endeavours.
