Back in March we premiered the video for Klypi’s “Not For You”; the final single before the release of the full-length album Consensual Hits. At the time, we said “There is much more to be said about the artistic endeavors of Klypi that can’t be wrapped up with a single video premiere. The artist is exploring expression from all angles; music, fashion and their general online presence.” With that in mind, let’s have a more in-depth look at the work of Klypi.
By simply gazing at the album art for Consensual Hits, you know you’re in for something different than the norm. Klypi is seen in piercing eye makeup and scantily clad nude-colored underwear drapped in toast, a bra of pickle slices and holding what may be a full pickle (or may be a vibrator). A sleeping cat and toaster are nearby, why not? It’s an exploration of fashion and art that is both funny and oddly thought provoking. Is it a statement on how the human body can be viewed as a meal? Is it a self-declaration that Klypi is a total snack? There may not be clear answers but the questions are entertainment enough.
Having the context provided by the cover sets the stage for the fourteen track electronic opus that unfurls over nearly an hour. The majority of the record is driven by dance-y beats and keyboard flourishes that would set a dancefloor on fire. Klypi’s sound is a refreshingly minimal approach; with a persistent beat that is always loud and always gripping, with no attempt to fill the aural space with every possible sound. The musical backing is enjoyable but the real star of the record is Klypi’s vocal performances and lyrics.
Generally, dance music doesn’t try to push the listener to pay too much attention to the lyrics as the intended end result is to get the body moving. Klypi’s Consensual Hits is different in that it has a message, a perspective and, dare I say, a story to tell. That’s not to say it’s not without it’s moments of absurd frivolity (see “Cum Quick Then Die” or “Hardcoors Lite”) but tracks like “Get Over You” and “Notice Me” are earnest emotional outpourings. They’re still Club Bangers but that’s the balance that Klypi consistently strikes throughout the album; a near dichotomy of wildly fun presentation cut with pleas of emotional doubt.
It would be easy to cast off the entirety of Klypi as performance art; a caricature that is playing a part. There’s a fusion of visual art, fashion and club music that really can’t be taken piecemeal. To listen to Klypi you should really also be looking at Klypi and soaking it all in. However, Consensual Hits is too weighted with self-doubt and emotional yearning to not stem from a real place. It’s the questionable thin line between character and real life that makes it such a wonderfully captivating listen. Klypi provides us with an escape – an excuse to let go and be wild – but also provides a bond that we’re all dealing with some shit.