Modfrey, a DC artist with a fierce commitment to raw, in-the-moment creativity, has gifted us 'Why Would You Care', a 12-track exploration of contemporary synthwave that refuses to be boxed in. He's an artist keen to keep the spotlight on the music, and after just a few listens to the album, it’s easy to understand why.
At its core, the album is a reflection of Modfrey and his experiences. It’s his soul on display, for better or worse, as he says, creating a relatable and deeply honest space where people can feel understood and find solace. “It’s mainly a heartbreak album, and how one keeps going”, Modfrey explained, and true to form, that sentiment shines at every turn.
Opening track, 'Sellout', hits you immediately. It's a spacious, melodic affair, but there's an undercurrent of something more, a subtle jab at artistic compromise. This isn't just about pretty sounds; it's about integrity and staying true to the moment in creation and expression. It’s also an early dose of honesty and self-reflection, an ethos we can all live by, as Modfrey shares, it's “a declaration of that I stop selling out and start being honest the rest of the way.”
From the start, the album has a habit of shifting, changing, and evolving, never staying still for long. 'Intentional' throws heavier guitar lines and syncopated beats into the mix, a welcome jolt of energy. 'btl' follows with coarse, energised melodies and sonically-charged instrumentals, delivering a heady rush of sound. Elsewhere, the title track, 'Why Would You Care', showcases cascading guitar chords, a shift again, but one that feels natural within the album's flow.
Modfrey's strength lies in his soundscapes. He's a master weaver of synths and guitars, creating tracks that are both dynamic and progressive. 'Old Rose' dips into subtle shades and stark atmospherics, then effortlessly transitions into a glossy pop sheen that lingers through 'Misunderstood'. It’s a testament to his genre-bending approach, and the flow of creativity that permeates every part of the album.
Even towards the end, the energy doesn't flag. 'Dawn' is a captivating synthwave expedition, with hazy vocals and quick-stepping beats. 'Fin', however, takes a detour, exploring an industrial undercurrent and a more etched, cinematic style. It's a bold move, and while it slightly disrupts the album's cohesion, it showcases Modfrey's willingness to experiment, and his drive to follow those spontaneous moments.
This album is a testament to the power of honest expression and a reminder that music, at its best, is a journey of discovery. For more from Modfrey, connect on Instagram today.
