An intense, atmospheric hip-hop album from SEER SEEKER, SPELLS AND SECRETS melds gripping vocal precision with beats that embrace a delectably eerie tone — making strong use of vibe-y keys, synths, and hypnotic percussion. Electronica and trap influences combine with consistently strong production and vocal performances for a thorough success from SEER SEEKER, the Virginia-based project of Nino DeBarros.
“DIVINE LOVE (INTRO)” consumes right away, easing into spacey synth-forward intrigue that develops into a fervent vocal expanse. “You are my divine love,” is proclaimed amidst glistening keys, heavy bass buzzing, and dexterous percussive charge — invigorating in its emotively effervescent pull. “SPELLS AND SECRETS (PT.1)” follows with a ruminating intrigue, asking “what will I find tonight?” prior to a catching title-touting refrain. “Spells and secrets in my mind, what will I find?” they continue, dazzling alongside a mixture of sparkling synth arpeggios and bass-y warmness. The album kicks off in stellar form with these two tracks, and doesn’t let up from there.
Following the two spirited openers, “FRACTALS” is the album’s first foray into a darker hip-hop soundscape — and the result is enthralling. “I know you need some now to breathe,” eerie vocals build alongside trickling piano and subtle string-laden feelings. The vocal work intensifies with thematic references to personal re-emergence, traversing into the replay-inducing “f-f-fractals,” lines — and proving fondly reminiscent of classic Linkin Park in its aesthetical pull.
The captivating production throughout SPELLS AND SECRETS is particularly evident on “THE WINTERS,” a track that’s masterful in its electro/rock hybrid beat and dynamic vocal prowess — seamlessly alternating from introspection to “I’m onto you!” impassioned charges. The melding of busy rhythmic flair and spacious vocal highlights are consuming, at points reminding of Run The Jewels, and El-P’s flow in general. The “all work and no play,” sequence increases with ferocity, contrasting with moments of momentary percussive pauses and maintaining excellent momentum as a result. “THE WINTERS” is an especially powerful production on this impressive release.
An eclectic dynamic reach is also evident on “THE SNAKES,” showing a poetic lyrical prose as “darkness fades in,” and ghostly vocal effects take hold. “It’s not how the story ends,” vocals caution, prior to a charismatic “I made my dreams real!” unveiling and drive for “no snakes.” SPELLS AND SECRETS struts an abundance of immersive structural navigations, resulting in a hip-hop success full of atmosphere and ferocious emotion.
