On the heels of announcing a brand new EP titled Feet of Clay released via Tan Cressida/Warner Records, LA-based alternative hip hop artist Earl Sweatshirt (formerly of Odd Future fame) has emerged with his latest visual for “EAST.” The prolific emcee/songwriter/producer has found solace in being free from the constraints of major label politics, formerly signed to Columbia Records, and being in a new creative space to produce music on his own terms. Earl Sweatshirt is embracing the avant-garde approach that is prevalent in his music. Never one to shy away from the more obscure hip hop that bears a strong influence and resemblance to an artist like MF Doom, Earl Sweatshirt (born Thebe Neruda Kgositsile) the 25-year old rapper is always evolving in regards to the style and grace of his artistry. Feet of Clay is the follow-up project to Earl Sweatshirt’s debut studio album 2013’s Doris, his sophomore album 2015’s I Don’t Like Shit, I Don’t Go Outside and his third studio album 2018’s Some Rap Songs.
In regards to both the track and latest music video for Earl Sweatshirt’s “EAST” the artist is taking a more minimalist approach. Earl Sweatshirt’s latest musical offering is in the form of the EP Feet of Clay, largely self produced, the project also features production by Los Angeles native The Alchemist and Ovrkast and guest features from Mavi and Mach-Hommy. “EAST” boasts a low budget, no frills style that has Earl lounging with friends basking in sunny weather with inter-cut visuals spliced in between, featuring images of shenanigans in a parking lot to an open fire barbecue. Earl is shown in many frames holding an alcoholic beverage in one hand and a cigarette in the other hand. A repetitious sample of flutes and accordions playing simultaneously makes up the bulk of the track produced by Earl himself. “EAST” features the most leisurely free flowing verse from Earl that trades bars about loosing his phone and missing his late father from whom he had an estranged relationship.
According to Pitchfork the abrupt roll out release of Feet of Clay seems par for the course when it was reported on Friday, November 1 stating “Earl Sweatshirt just released new album last night called Feet of Clay, which arrived after being announced 12 hours earlier. In case that wasn’t enough, today he’s shared a new video for the album track ‘EAST.’ It was shot and edited in the same style as the video for ‘Easter Sunday 97,’ Earl’s collaboration with Zelooperz. MIKE and Maxo make appearances.”
Earl has this to say about his latest musical offering Feet of Clay:
“‘FOC is a collection of observations and feelings recorded during the death throes of a crumbling empire,’ Earl said in a statement.”
To listen to “EAST” stream below, via YouTube.
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