Clem de la Crème’s all killer and no filler with the intense trip of “Just Us.” Sound gets a nimble dexterity to it for the emphasis on each verse stuns. The continued exploration of his unlimited international style adds to the joy of the work. Nor is Clem alone for a wide variety of collaborators appears throughout the entirety of the experience fitting into the aural universe perfectly. Volume is a given for there is a sheer wall of sound approach to many of these grooves for the rumbling bass lines crush everything in their path. With heavy nods to trap, elements of noise, industrial, and techno enter into the fray. A sheer variety of color ensures that the kaleidoscopic effect of the work is impeccable.
Hard with a virtually punishing rhythm, the songs here draw a bit from the eerie crypt quality of Death Grips’ uncanny desire to destroy everything in their wake. Underneath all of it is a rage, one furious that bursts at the seams. On the equally unhinged side, nods to some of Danny Brown’s unconventional lyricism dominates much of it helping to add to the sense of the infinite that the collection effortlessly weaves together.
A mysticism sets the tone on the deeply introspective “Excuses (feat. jude gun)”. Holding absolutely nothing back, the word choice proves to be incredibly cutting, showing how many choose to complain rather than transform their current state of mind. Going for some relatively self-affirming power the song feels particularly attuned to this very moment in time, where people are feeling oppressed yet, simultaneously, are able to unite together to take action in a big way. On the title track and clear highlight “Just Us. (feat. Anno Domini Beats)” further brings a spirituality into the work. Cleverly quoting famous soliloquies the track feels completely focused, razor sharp. Layer upon layer of the sound enters into the mix further ensuring that there is a sense of evolution that occurs over the course of the work. Fragile, delicate arrangements frame the finale of “Zeus (feat. Georges204)”. Various melodies waft up into the sky. Unease comes through much of the piece. Quite nightmarish at times, the usage of mythology to further add to the song’s seemingly legendary twists and turns that close it all out.
“Just Us.” Revels in Clem de la Crème’s focus on the smallest of details resulting in a completely absorbing world that feels fully explored.
