Los Angeles – As Light As Light is Los Angeles natives Andrew and Daniel Aged’s sophomore LP, but it is the duo’s first release after christening themselves inc. no world. The siblings formed Teen Inc. in 2010 before changing the band’s name to simply “inc.” Not too long after this name change, inc. released an EP and then a debut record, No World (4AD), which featured the singles “5 Days” and ”The Place,” which was featured in the Grand Theft Auto V soundtrack. In the past, Andrew provided the vocals and guitar work while Daniel covered bass, keyboards, and production. However, for this latest go around, the brothers employed outside help from INGA’s Sam Gendel, drummer Kevin Yokota, and Nite Jewel/Beck producer Cole M.G.N. The duo makes captivating 80s and 90s inspired R&B. With their latest effort As Light As Light (via No World Recordings) - and first full length album in over three and a half years - the boys have returned with a tender and intimate album, and yet another new name, with inc. no world.
If comparison were truly needed for inc. no world it would probably come in the form of silky-smooth R&B and soul singer How To Dress Well. However, the Ageds dig deeper than How To Dress Well with this release, as they convey more of an introspective approach that draws the listener in. No matter which moniker the two choose to create under, the duo is continuously crafting alternative, psychedelic R&B more inventive than most mainstream acts.
Opening track, “Hymn 1,” has the perfect intro track feel, with its gradual and steady builds; it is immaculately executed. Soulfully and gently, the listener is already being pulled in from the beginning stages of As Light As Light. “Waters Of You,” the first single off the record, follows. This tranquil track is just shy of five minutes and is pure, unassuming beauty. Sensitive sounds surround striking lyrics: “Your soul / Is the same one as mine / The same tear / That is held in the sky / It falls down / To a place where we meet.” The brothers provide a rich, but controlled sound that is easy to fall in love with.
“The Wheel” is a deeply serene and smooth excursion worth discovering. It embraces psychedelia, with floating guitars infused with tropical vibes. It also has more of a fuller sound than the two previous tracks. “In Your Beauty” starts off gorgeously and proves the duo rival any artists producing contemporary R&B, especially in regard raw instrumentation. Andrew holds whispery tendencies, singing expressive lyrics, adding greatly to the emotive atmosphere.
“In Love” is acoustically driven, toning back on the R&B vibe and winding down a more subtle path. However, not to be mistaken for a simple track by any means, the brothers show their strength and versatility, evolving beyond what they’ve become known for, making for a true highpoint on the album. “Your Waking Heart” shines right from the start with warm guitar riffs, understated drumbeats, and Andrew’s graceful vocals. To no surprise, we are bestowed another stunning track that flows effortlessly.
“For The Leaves” gently starts off with strumming guitar before blooming into a superb transition from summer to autumn, with a post-summer vibe flowing into fall ambiance, constantly carrying the listener along. As Light As Light closes with “Hymn 2.” As with “In Love,” the duo holds back just enough, walking a careful yet brilliant line, not intent on manifesting flashy arrangements or overblown productions.
The duo has really found its stride (and maybe a permanent band name) with this spectacular release. It’s an exquisite piece of work that doesn’t hold to one sound or genre, covering many different tones and moods. There is true beauty to be found within all twelve songs. As Light As Light is meant to excite, entice, and engage. It calls for you to re-examine your surroundings… An alluring trade off for such an exquisite record.
As Light As Light is set for release on September 9th via No World Recordings and is available for pre-order on iTunes. Follow inc. no world on Facebook and Twitter for more information concerning upcoming tour dates.
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Sean Kayden
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