»The Dread Of An Unknown Evil« is a record needing to be felt. Even though KRTS clearly stands in a beatmaker-tradition connected to an intellectual type of music, this record is primarily about moods and feelings. The longplayer is a conceptual album, which runs through a complete process of feelings in its ten tracks. As the title suggests, KRTS musically plays with the abstract experiences of fear, uncertainty, relief and confidence. The journey starts with »Something New«, featuring KRTS’ brother Jon Hairston. In contrast to the song’s positive mood, Jon instantly predicts black clouds moving our way: »I know you’re scared, and you should be«. »Fire« and »Close The Closet Door« slowly but continuously help the arc of suspense rise, until the mood completely changes into tension and depression with »Knuckle Under« and »Strange Boys In Blue«. The whole process is additionally reflected through KRTS’ technical style. Melodic surfaces are being replaced by colder and electronic parts by and by. »Your Eyes«, which almost melts in with the beautiful souly voice of Stevee Wellons, KRTS’ mother, is the turning point at the top. And even though the title track, »Dread Of The Unknown Evil«, can still be characterized as clear and dark, the mood begins to lighten again. »Regret To Retreat« and »She Was Worth It« are emotional reliefs, the record’s relaxation, and release the listener with a positive, almost euphoric feeling.
Moor Mother
The Great Bailout
Anti-