Benny Cassette (photo: Connorphotos.net)If you're having a hard time getting over an ex that you thought was The One, rock and rap artist Benny Cassette has sulking music for you.
"Empires," from Benny's recently released EP "Angel Dust," sets the tone with its moody, throbbing bass line, harmonic layered backing vocals and slow motion pacing of the track he produced.
Benny uses metaphors to describe his and Ms. Wrong's efforts to construct a solid foundation: "We built these walls with bricks and wire. We raised these trees. They still grow higher. … We wrote these rules in blood red ink. We loved like fools … We built this empire."
Benny can't get over the fact that things fell apart despite their efforts, singing, "We killed this empire … and now its just dust."
Benny 's vocal production drives this song. He's emotive like Sting. Repeats lyrics for dramatic effect. He's so honest that he sounds unstable, in a trance and vulnerable. The recording session must have been emotionally draining. Maybe this is why it's the only credit on the seven-song set not produced by The Cool Kids' Chuck Inglish.
In a fast-paced outro rap, Benny composes himself enough to offer advice to those battling similar relationship woes. "Sweet, pretty pot of gold so they lose they soul when they need to just slow down," he wisely suggests.
It's clear that all the "Angel Dust" songs are about a real relationship. The first single "Say No To Drugs" tackles the lustful stage over an equally addictive electronic, hip-hop party track. But he doesn't forget about the other phases — introduction, bliss, addiction, torture and memories.