Boombox Cartel has released Proof of Life, a stunning song-cycle that paints a picture of the search for hope in the throes of desolation.
Released via his own Monta label, the album is masterstroke of storytelling through electronic music. Exploring the theme of disillusionment, Proof of Life dabbles in the sounds of trap, midtempo, drum & bass, house and more through its 18 tracks, guiding us through the mind of Boombox Cartel, who called it the “biggest emotional rollercoaster” of his life.
“all the songs on proof of life spoke to me like no other, i’ve been holding on and working on these songs for years and i felt anxious at the thought of letting these die in my harddrive,” he said in an Instagram post. “these songs have been so timeless and meant so much in my private life and i am so proud to share them with you all.”
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Starting off as an apocalyptic film might, the titular track “Proof of Life” sets the scene of a dark, ominous desertscape before Lyves’ vocals ring out in a yearning call to anyone else who remains alive. They then bring the ensuing “Hold Me” to life by delivering a drum & bass stunner with a soulful twist.
“Venture” then brings out the optimistic curiosity of venturing around a wasteland, giving way to a euphoric drop reminiscent of newly found hope. “Lowlife,” a collaboration with Nevve, beautifully builds off that audacious energy before “SPEED RUN” dials it up to a fever pitch through hauntingly futuristic house beats, a stark contrast to the album’s cautious beginnings.
An undeniable highlight on the album’s journey is the balmy “In Our Lungs,” a heartfelt future bass anthem. Here, Griff Clawson’s vocals ache with longing as Boombox Cartel interpolates fluttering acoustic plucks perfect for a summer drive. The emotional rollercoaster chugs on through a pleasantly disorienting mix of brooding beats, like “Guide You,” which features the talented MKLA.
On the flip side, the banging “Bossed Up” ventures into territory familiar for fans of Boombox Cartel. Oakland rapper Guapdad 4000 steps into a slinking, sly trap beat like a fox in a chicken coop. The same goes for “Can’t Talk” (with Famous Dex) and “Back Again” (with Nessly), each of which prove the artist hasn’t lost sight of his love for trap bangers.
Though Boombox Cartel artfully blurs genres across his debut album, each of its tracks are rooted in his signature blend of thunderous production and visceral songwriting. In the end, listeners are left with the feeling that they, too, can imbue meaning and purpose into their own lives in the face of disillusionment.
Listen to Proof of Life below and find the new album on streaming platforms here.
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