Austin Arndt who goes by the moniker YT has just released ‘Into The D.A.R.K.NESS’ a gritty hip hop album with 10 entertaining tracks for fans to absorb. The project consists of dark bass beats, haunting melodies and sharp lyrical wordplay. One cannot escape the listening experience without being transported back to the 2000s and even as early as the late 90s when mainstream rap danced with underground sounds and most notable, salient lyrical content.
‘Into The D.A.R.K.NESS’ strolls in with a confident stride on the first track “T-REX”. As a drowsy sequence of piano melodies move along the production, YT spits a series of captivating bars with bravado most unseen in today’s newest crop of rising hip hop artists.
The follow on to “T-REX” is “Run” which delivers a more upbeat tempo. The track, which has an energetic vibe does not fall short on hard-hitting bars and YT teams up with fellow rapper Mmmfd to perform lyrical assault on all adversaries, commanding them to “run, run, duck and hide”. “The Run” is a strangely inspiring track that will encourage fans to embrace their inner psycho.
YT is still beating the pavement and crushing the competition on “Runnin’ a Muck’, an amped up performance that breathes exhaustion while telling a descriptive story about overcoming adversity and reaching the top.
Teasing fans with a playful introduction is “Dark Deals” with Boondox, a melodic and dark juxtaposition that grips listeners with epic synths and emotional lyrics. YT uses violent metaphors to illustrate a journey that many a person can relate to in their quest for overcoming. Using graphic bars, YT shares a narrative that ultimately surrenders to powerful forces. Still, a wave of hope lingers on this misty production.
“Marvin” descends on the album, where YT bodies nearly everyone using the concepts of aliens, UFOs and outer space through a character who clearly states, “quit mumbling on the track”. Could this represent a jab to the latest sounds saturating the mainstream? YT will keep fans guessing.
The chilling track “Boogieman” featuring Mr. Grey is reminiscent of earlier Eminem tracks in which YT plays striking metaphors, vocal distortions, verbal exchanges between characters and internal conflicts in what is seemingly one’s own horror film or someone’s worst nightmare. Still, YT performs a consistent narrative that relates closely to the previous content on ‘Into The D.A.R.K.NESS’. There is mystery in the message while it is clear that there is a very intentional approach.
The album begins its descent with the cut “Whoop Whoop” which is anything but a party track. YT clearly has no plans of ending his reign as he asserts himself and lyrical prowess over haters and the like.
The album takes a surprising twist on the performance of “Manical Pain” which opens with some rock vocals. Not wandering too far down the path of EMO rap, “Manical Pain” does give off a little Post Malone type of essence which will certainly resonate with younger music fans who are relishing the sounds of Alternative Rap. YT, however, stays true to his unique sound as the production progresses with some help from Rick-E and Lo Key. The track is relatable and easy to consume.
Closing out ‘Into The D.A.R.K.NESS’ are the productions, “Like a Track Fiend” and “Deadly Assassin” ft. Clockworc. “Like a Track Fiend” is a catchy rap record with clever lyrics and a memorable hook. Giving a nod to cultural references, YT solidifies his position as a flexible artist.
The album concludes with “Deadly Assassin” a fitting song title which speaks to YT’s inherent capabilities as a lyricist. The artist drops weight on the track which quickly reminds doubters that no one is safe.
‘Into The D.A.R.K.NESS’ is a distinctive project with some intense moments. Fans of earlier rap heavy-hitters will enjoy the sounds of YT on the album. People who enjoy the throwback vibes of artists such as Tech N9ne, Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, Eminem and David Banner and groups such as Cypress Hill and House of Pain will immediately be drawn to the sounds of YT on ‘Into The D.A.R.K.NESS’. A younger generation of music listeners will enjoy the modern elements that YT adds to the genre while still staying true to himself. Although there are some graphic metaphors performed on the album, ‘Into The D.A.R.K.NESS’ presents a journey, struggle and rise that is highly-relatable when all is said and done.
Listen to YT “Into The D.A.R.K.NESS
There is more to Austin Arndt than meets the eye. Going by the moniker of YT which is a spin on the name “Whitey”, the artist is a one-man music powerhouse. Having forayed into the world of rap after recovering from addiction, YT did not pump the breaks but took his talents even further. He is not only a rapper but a music producer, sound engineer and entrepreneur. The artist has chosen to develop music with a purpose, creating sounds that not only have allowed him to cope with his own recovery but aid helping others around the world.
YT is an accomplished artist on the rise. He commenced his first national tour with the likes of Scum, Rozz Dyliams, Nyro The Madman, and Opie Hallogen. YT’s debut album release was titled ‘Difficult Choices’. The project garnered industry accolades, awards and recognition. Continuing the journey on his previous success stories, YT is ready to claim his rightful place with the newest release of his album ‘Into The D.A.R.K.NESS’. The album is streaming now on all major digital platforms. Check out the links below to learn more about YT and connect with his music.
Connect with YT Music
Visit ytmusic.us
Follow on Instagram
Listen on Spotify