Ohio-based experimental hip-hop artist (leave) nelson b mixes samples of fellow Lonely Ghost artists’ work into a fluttering and funky pool of rhythmic sound on 2.0: Phantom.
The eight-track LP features airy and soothing remixes of tunes from lo-fi emo fixtures such as Winnebago Vacation and Father of the Year. (leave) nelson b is a friend and admirer of every artist on the label, and considering how well his layering and tender instrumentals fit within each song, this camaraderie is apparent. Every sample is an elegant ode to each respective artist, but the true beauty lies within (leave) nelson b’s masterful ability to alter the songs into something all his own.
Creating art that is consumed with a warm exuberance, (leave) nelson b beats to his own drum. 2.0: Phantom is bright, wistful, and imaginative, and it makes the world around us feel all the more colorful and evanescent as a result. This album encompasses no grand gestures or sing-song choruses. The magic, however, lies in its simplicity. (leave) nelson b is such a talent because he produces invigorating feelings with minimal additive elements. It is evident, even upon first listen, he created this album with his whole heart, painting an affectionate and sincere picture of life in its truest form.
Throughout the album, the listener is warmly embraced by a sea of hypnotic and captivating electronica. It’s an intimate listen, with each track glowing in its own right. Album opener, “Post Mortem,” is brimming with light and airy echoes. A shorter and faster cover of “Dentine” by Funeral Homes (off of the 2019 EP April Showers Bring May Flowers), “Post Mortem” begins a mystical and fluttering journey that puts a fresh, modern spin on impassioned indie offerings.
The second track off the album, “The Change We Needed,” permeates with light guitar strumming and a myriad of other soothing instrumentals. It’s reminiscent of a tender folk ballad, and does a complete 180 from the heavy and somber undertones of “The Change You Wanted” from Indiana’s Arise, Sir!. (leave) nelson b’s take on the track is effervescent and balanced. It’s important to note, however, that the juxtaposition speaks to the transformative inner nature felt within us at any given time. Our moods shift just as quickly as the weather changes, and the contrast between artists is an accurate example of the ripple of sentiments often experienced.
“Vincent Adultman” is an intriguing take on Superdestroyer’s “Princess Caroline” — originally featured on the 2019 EP Short Stories About Ghosts. The solid drum beats provide a sort of meditative state, creating a piece that is much freer and looser than its frantic counterpart.
“Somehow” is the second-to-last track on Winnebago Vacation’s reflective and emotive Camp Somewhere. Originally written and performed as an ethereal bottling up of feelings, (leave) nelson b’s remix, “How Some” is essentially a release of those bottled up emotions. Its sprightly snaps and dreamy melodies breathe new life into a piece with a message that was originally much darker, downtrodden, and serious.
