Teebs – Anicca

Beats for the soul

Layers upon textured layers compound and produce a serenity. This handcrafted chill is the music of Teebs—an electronic musician whose sound is jazzy, rich and eclectic. On his newest project Anicca, abstract beats built from a variety of loops and samples twist and turn into exciting sonic avenues. Influenced by IDM and hip-hop production, Teebs elevates traditional hip-hop beats and transforms a groove and a sample into something greater. 

Starting off, “Atoms Song” is a gentle takeoff with light, airy synth melodies and soft, percussive pings. This abstract relaxation and introspective track sets the tone for the rest of the album. “Black Dove” has deep complicated grooves, “world music” percussion and dense melancholic samples. Syncopated kicks thump while featured artist Sudan Archives lays down wonderful vocal melodies. “Shells” is all beat, and that’s perfectly fine; glistening piano chords levitate over steady sequenced beats. Every sound is in its place and the track works as a great palette cleanser for “Threads” with Anna Wise.  The track has an ambient atmosphere echoing under Anna Wise’s thoughtful and serene vocals. 

Album highlight “Prayers ii” has such an airy, relaxed vibe yet the details under the hood showcase a masterclass in composition. A sample-based evolution where everything is stitched together without any seams. The progression on this and many tracks on Anicca is subtle and gradual, but rich and rewarding. No track stays too long but all of them sound like their own voice and rhythm. All the featured artists add to Teebs’ production instead of holding it back. “Daughter Calling” with Pink Siifu is a goddamn vibe, with great grooves and some amazing rapping. 

There is a ton of restraint and cohesion on this album. One sonic palette diverged into many wandering paths. Some ambient and subdued, many percussive and elegant, Teebs’ sound is grown up and expressive, neoclassical beat music for the soul.