Derek Simpson, a producer, musician, and artist from Los Angeles, has released his third full-length album, “Somehow,” with Trailing Twelve Records. Simpson’s music is well-known for its unique blending of ethereal synth lines and spacey guitar chords. The reach of his sound creates a compelling examination of reflection and the difficulties of interpersonal relationships.
Originally from Boston, Simpson’s artistic path has brought him to the thriving Long Beach, California music scene. His distinct vision and talent have won him praise from respected magazines including Indie Shuffle, Spin, and Ones To Watch. A broader audience has also gotten to know his music after it was featured in movies like “The Wheel” and TV series like “Workaholics.”
His most recent album, “Somehow”, explores the intricacies of love, grief, and self-discovery in a very personal and unconventional way. With layers of distorted vocals, catchy melodies, and reflective lyrics, the album is a sonic collage that provides a deep and varied listening experience. With their pulsating groove and seductive lyrics, songs like “222” show off Simpson’s confident and playful side, while “The Circle One” and “Glitterrr” entice listeners into a more experimental and dreamy environment.
Tracks like “In Ur Reach” and “T,” where Simpson tackles issues of sorrow and survival with unvarnished sincerity, showcase the album’s emotional depth. These tunes demonstrate his vocal range and delivery, which emphasize his capacity to portray a wide range of emotions. The album’s last track, “Bonez & All,” is a melancholic look back, with reference to the previous themes and melodies presented in the album, the song provides a sense of closure and unity to this beautiful amalgam.
Simpson has an equally amazing production approach in “Somehow”. Through the incorporation of techno, indie, and R&B components, he crafts a distinct auditory landscape that is both recognizable and inventive. The record was produced with extreme care, giving significant thought to each sound and texture. As a result, listeners are immersed in Simpson’s universe through a seamless and captivating audio experience.
Simpson’s ability to build mood in “Somehow” is one of its most notable features. His use of texture, rhythm, and melody creates auditory landscapes that elicit a variety of feelings. There is no doubt he has a special talent for crafting fascinating listening experiences, whether it’s through the raw intensity of songs like “T” or the dreamy, ethereal beauty of “The Circle One.”
More than just an album; “Somehow” is an intimate reflective experience that demonstrates Derek Simpson’s artistic development. It is a credit to his creativity and vision that he can combine introspection with aural exploration so well.
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