Metryst’s eponymous EP is a formidable debut project that presents the artist’s distinctive fusion of rock and hip-hop. Having been raised in South Florida, Metryst boasts a cultural background that reflects his Cuban-American roots, and his music is imbued with a compelling message that confronts contemporary societal issues, such as corruption, poverty, loss, and racism.
Metryst’s artistry is multifaceted, informed by his early musical influences, which predominantly comprised of rap and hip-hop. However, at the age of 13, he began playing the guitar, which led him to join a metal band during high school. Over the past few years, Metryst has honed his skills in music production through self-learning methods such as watching instructional videos on YouTube and participating in online forums.
Remarkably, Metryst’s debut EP is entirely self-produced, written and performed. The artist’s unorthodox guitar playing style adds a unique layer of texture to the organic production, creating a dynamic soundscape. Furthermore, Metryst’s emotionally charged lyrics are delivered with an impressive flow, transitioning seamlessly between rapping and singing.
The EP’s opening track, “I Hope You’re Listening…”, commands attention with its incisive lyrics that tackle pressing societal issues. The song addresses the current state of the United States, criticizing the government and corporations for their exploitation of the people. The lyrics express frustration with the country’s inequality and corruption, and a desire for change. “Exposé” follows with an up-tempo beat, telling the story of growing up in a violent and unstable environment, highlighting the harsh reality of life in some neighborhoods. The lyrics describe experiences with domestic abuse, drug addiction, and gang violence, shedding light on the struggles of those living in poverty.
“Gone” is a song about regret, loss and the difficulty of letting go. The lyrics express the pain and confusion of losing someone without being able to say goodbye. The message is about the importance of communication and clearing up misunderstandings before it’s too late. “Just Saying” is an upbeat song with a positive message about making the world a better place. The lyrics encourage listeners to be kind, respectful, and positive in their daily interactions. The message is about the power of small acts of kindness and how they can make a difference in the world.
The EP’s final track, “Now Is The Time” is a socially conscious track that addresses issues such as war, poverty, hunger, genocide, terrorism and racism. The lyrics highlight the problems in the world and encourage listeners to take action to create a better future. Metryst’s powerful flow and exceptional instrumentation culminate in an epic finale that leaves a lasting impression.
I highly recommend Metryst’s self-titled debut EP to anyone who appreciates genre-bending music that pushes creative boundaries. The EP seamlessly blends elements of rock and hip-hop, resulting in a unique and captivating sound. The spoken-word piece in “Now Is the Time” at the end of the EP is a powerful and thought-provoking addition that leaves a lasting impression.
