This Wednesday marked a significant moment for music enthusiasts as Matthew Progress dropped his latest single, ‘Digital Underground,’ a tantalizing glimpse into his upcoming debut full-length album, ‘God Made Dirt.’ A departure from the politically and socially charged tones of previous singles like ‘Gen Pop’ and ‘Doc Neville,’ ‘Digital Underground’ immerses listeners in the liberating realm of sexual exploration.
‘Digital Underground’ transcends the conventional boundaries of sound, offering a psychedelic journey reminiscent of an acid trip. Matthew Progress skillfully combines elements of new age funk, drawing inspiration from musical giants like OutKast, Parliament-Funkadelic, Rick James, and The Free Nationals. However, the reimagining of these classic influences bears the unmistakable stamp of Matthew’s unique sense of menace and darkness.
The track unfolds with classic-sounding bass lines, seamlessly interwoven with electronic sensibilities, all elevated by Matthew’s distinctive pitched-up vocals. ‘Digital Underground’ doesn’t just promise a sonic experience; it promises an exploration of themes and emotions that push the boundaries of conventional music.
Speaking on the origins of the track, Matthew Progress shared insights into the creative process, saying, “While making ‘God Made Dirt,’ myself and Dan Only were inspired by various forms of psychedelic music like OutKast’s ‘Stankonia,’ which we consider a psychedelic Hip-Hop classic. I felt moved to write about sexual liberation as a source of personal power and alignment with the divine. To me, that was best illustrated in story form.”
Narrating a vivid scene of an orgy, ‘Digital Underground’ provides a detailed, first-person account of the encounter. The chorus becomes a philosophical call to action, urging listeners to, when possible, choose love (or sex) over violence. Matthew Progress weaves a narrative that not only explores the physical act but also delves into the deeper, spiritual dimensions of sexual liberation.
