Fun Fun Fun Fest 2014 Sunday Reviews
By Kahron Spearman, Fri., Nov. 7, 2014
Flying Lotus
You're Dead (Warp)Almost completely eschewing typical beat-heavy production for an organic experience, You're Dead represents an affecting, transformative experience from L.A.'s Steven Ellison into multiple levels of existential "crossover." You're Dead begs complete listens as a whole, with tracks just long enough to capture particular thoughts before you're pushed onward. From commencement, this progressive fusion, his fifth, requires stretching into a vortex going inward, outward, and onward. The kinetic "Tesla" pulsates bursts of electricity with the assistance of idol/pioneer Herbie Hancock. Just so there's no misunderstanding, Ellison opts for full-on jazz-rock breaks on "Cold Dead," including shadowy vocals and overcast guitars. The beat-driven "Obligatory Cadence" satisfies those clamoring for previous work, while accomplishing much more. It's a metaphorical shedding of self, perhaps a ridding of Flying Lotus as previously constructed. The producer reaches atonement and catharsis on "The Protest," verbalizing the theme: "We will live on forever." (7:25pm, Blue stage)
