Zel Monstrous Shares His Highly Anticipated EP, “Well That Was Interesting”
By: Chris Buxton IG: @chrisbuxtonllg
Brooklyn-born hitmaker, Zel Monstrous, has recently taken the industry by storm. After impressing me with his single “Sacrifices”, I knew the burgeoning rapper was a generational talent. Now, I don’t use the term “generational talent” loosely. I say that he is because he has an innovative sound that pushes the envelope. His brand of experimental alternative hip-hop is refreshing, and it deserves to be heard. In an industry that rewards virality and artists that beg to be seen, Zel Monstrous focuses on his craft. That is what makes him so polarizing. After initially grabbing my attention with his previous record, he debuts on our pages with his latest EP “Well That Was Interesting”.
“Well That Was Interesting” is a 5-track masterpiece that blends elements of hip-hop, punk-rock, dubstep, and dark pop into one captivating sound. As a hip-hop lover, there has been an ongoing shift over the last few years, and Zel Monstrous provides listeners with a new take on the genre. He’s intentional, genuine, and his flows are prolific. Although he is stepping out of his comfort zone, he is still speaking his truth. Zel uses this project as a vessel to inspire listeners and his counterparts that it’s okay to be different. It’s okay to embrace the weird.
My favorite records from the project were “BURN”, “ILLITERATE”, & “SILENCE”. “ILLITERATE” opened the project, and it is a dynamic single that discusses racial profiling, disenfranchisement, and his dreams. Over the dark textures, dynamic synths, & off-kilter drums, the rising rapper asserts himself on the beat. He’s direct and straight to the point. This was a perfect opening for the project. “BURN” is laced with a vibrant and hard-hitting drum groove and a sizzling electric guitar riff that comes straight out of the mosh pit. Zel sure knows the assignment and delivers his bars with emotion and stylish cadence that weaves mellow with energetic projection. “SILENCE” is the final track on the EP. The record has an edgy sound, and Zel details his alien work ethic and his ability to pursue his dream nonstop. Overall, this is one of my favorite projects of the year so stream below.
