Solo artist and producer Devon Aviles has created a fantastic new project that operates underneath the moniker of Death Popsicle, having just released his debut EP, Komuso. It’s a pretty unique sounding record, but it really works as a concept, channelling the weight of musical pioneers such as Nine Inch Nails and Depeche Mode, but with an added sense of attitude and swagger. Let’s dive in and have a listen!
By Jane Howkins
There are five tracks on Komuso, with the EP opening with Animal, establishing the main sonic direction of the project right off the bat. The track features a booming drum groove and some bubbly synth lines, with the lyrics diving into ideas such as societal conformity. The vocals change in an interesting way too, going from a layered, baritone vocal performance on the majority of the tune, before descending into the occasional rap. Up next comes Dear Friends, which flips the script completely – it’s a pretty catchy track, although it still retains the haunting synth-pop of Animal. The beat and synths give the tune an eerie and atmospheric vibe, creating one of the most memorable melodies on Komuso overall.
Ugly is particularly intriguing thematically, as it turns the mirror directly onto themes of self-worth, physical appearance and the common feeling of imposter syndrome. The electronic textures are stacked and the bass sounds truly menacing at times, making for perhaps the darkest song on the entire EP. What makes this piece truly shine is Aviles’ ability to take such a deeply personal and vulnerable subject matter and elevate it into a cinematic, gothic soundscape that feels both intimate and expansive, all at once.
Thankfully, the tension opens up a little on Own, which has a much more upbeat and positive feel to it – just listen to the song and see if you don’t catch yourself dancing along in time. It’s got such an infectious groove, making this a perfect song for single territory, if Death Popsicle were so inclined.
Closing out the EP is Vulnerable, which kicks straight back in with a selection of sharp, stabbing synth lines, as the bass and drums pulsate around them. The track drops down every so often, before building back up again, expanding the song to a dramatic and almost theatrical finale.
It’s clear that on Komuso, Death Popsicle has managed to deliver an exceptional debut EP that will surely solidify the project’s existence within the modern music industry. Sure, Devon Aviles may not make music that fits into any particular box, but that’s more to his credit, in my opinion.
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