Kilravock, the project of multi-instrumentalist and producer Steven Wayne Smith, marks a triumphant return with a two-track EP comprising ‘Incompatibility ][ Working Class Hero’. With this project, he shares his narration and simultaneously pays tribute to John Lennon. From the audio honesty and virtuoso instrumentation, this release is quite striking and remarkable and further emphasizes Smith’s multiple musical aspects.
“Incompatibility” is the first track of the EP, the one Smith does as a soloist and casts in original form. It is his voice and all the instrumental parts singing a heartfelt song as he recalls the challenges and difficulties of growing up neurodivergent in a capitalist society. The writer of the lyrics poetically complements and tangentially addresses the concern throughout the song. The song stings one’s ears and, in multiple stages, smoothly overlaps acoustic melody with electrification. The ability to embed a multitude of feelings in music and merge them cohesively is the heartbeat of this piece. In the second track of this EP, “Working Class Hero”, Smith makes a dramatic attempt to reinterpret John Lennon’s classic. Here, Smith enlists his bandmates from The Alliterates – Sean Soucy – on guitar, David Dick – on vocals, as well as Anna Schmidt, who lends a ghoulish echoing voice. The Song’s intention does not only remain in its realism but also fortifies the original ethos of the song. There are some unique changes on the cover, particularly the addition of complex harmonies and instrumentations. It is an appropriate respectful tribute to Lennon whilst evincing enough of Kilravock to make the cover somewhat distinctive.
This release entails not only music but also personal struggles and social commentary. Smith’s knack for transforming these concepts in Incompatibility and his collaborative effort of Working Class Hero with his associates only demonstrate his creative strength and depth. Maturity ‘Incompatibility ][ Working Class Hero’ is, in essence, a thoughtful, meaningful piece that should be included in the playlists of every fan of such music.
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