Sam Rich
Staff Writer
Mod Sun establishes himself as a good role model to “Look Up” to in his spectacular debut hip-hop album that puts his optimism and carefree outlook on life on display. Mod Sun’s hippy attitude encourages being positive through his uplifting songs.
This release surpasses the excellence of previous EPs and mixtapes due to popular guest appearances, such as Travis Barker, G-Eazy, and Machine Gun Kelly, who fit well with his own vocals. Mod Sun’s unique sound ranges from an upbeat club vibe to a chill, beachy one.
Mod Sun is a one man band whose name is Derek Smith. Smith is from Minnesota who used to play drums in “Four Letter Lie” and “Scary Kids Scaring Kids” until 2010, when he left to become a rapper and was signed to Rostrum Records in 2014.
Mod Sun stands for “Movement On Dreams Stand Under None.” Smith started releasing mixtapes in 2009 and has released five mix tapes and three Eps, but none since 2012. Since then, he has released a single a year and all three are on “Look Up.”
Mod Sun’s optimistic attitude distinguishes himself from other artists because he empowers his fans to learn to love themselves. In “My Favorite Shirt is My Skin” he sings “pretty on the outside and within, I’m in love with myself,” showing his contagious self love.
Featuring G-Eazy, “Goddess” is the most relaxing song, showing off the diversity of his sound. This track is an enjoyable song that is perfect for a day at the beach with friends. It’s a refreshing, mellow break from Mod Sun’s loud, upbeat songs.
Featured artists make this album stand out with well-known artists such as Travis Barker who brings his rock drum beat to make it more interesting without straying from Mod Sun’s fun, eccentric sound. Jody Highroller uses his quiet rapping voice to blend with Mod Sunday, creating a calm tone.
The first track is named after the album’s title, “Look Up”, and is a short introduction to start the album off right. It prefaces the album by showing the listener a little bit of his outlook on life and a calming but eery beat to get the listener excited.
The beat in “Modivation” has the strongest dub step vibe due to the steady drum beat with it’s build up to the drop and the clapping in the background, perfectly made for nightclubs. It also uses verses from “My Favorite Shirt is My Skin” as if it was a remix.
Mod Sun’s smooth voice helps improve the mellower songs so they stand out. In “Headed Home,” his mysterious voice slows the songs down to give it his classic hippy tone. His soothing vocals always blend with the beat to make the tune more enjoyable to listen to.
“Look Up” is an impressive album available digitally and in retail for $11.99.
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