This album originally was planned for release in 2022—that’s when Defcee and Parallel Thought first connected, built on a mutual respect for each other’s discographies. Defcee was fresh off the success of his Backwoodz debut, Trapdoor (produced by Messiah Musik), while Parallel Thought had just released The Wild End, their collaborative album with another Chicago legend, Tree.

An initial beat pack was sent, quickly followed by a demo of songs recorded by Defcee. The foundation was there, but then—silence. Long story short…life happened.

Fast forward to July 2024, and Defcee spent a week in Freehold, recording the entirety of Other Blues at Parallel Thought’s studio. Other Blues lays bare small joys, big hurts, and both swagger and insecurity in equal measure, serving as a testament to honesty, redemption, and a refocusing on life’s most important priorities. Deeply personal and introspective, the album showcases Defcee’s raw, honest lyricism over Parallel Thought’s smoked-out, heavy, hazy jazz soundscapes.

The project also features guest verses from extended family—New Jersey’s feature king, Fatboi Sharif, Swave Sevah, and fellow Chicagoan, Tree. Despite balancing day jobs, kids, and family, Defcee & Parallel Thought prove that music can still sound like it comes first.

credits

All songs written by: Defcee

All songs produced, recorded, mixed and mastered by: Parallel Thought at "The Paradigm" Freehold NJ, July 2024

Photography by Alexander Richter

Layout & Design by Michael Interrante