Hood Joplin's "This, That, and the Third" captures the essence of the studio as a battleground, where collaboration, improvisation, and raw intensity coalesce into a frenetic club experience. The album bursts with energy, traversing gritty techno, futuristic juke, and ambient soundscapes, each track a bold declaration of her genre-bending artistry.
"Close" serves as a powerful opening, characterized by blistering 909 drum rhythms and sharp, plasticky synth textures that establish an urgent, high-energy atmosphere. The track's relentless pace embodies Hood Joplin's commitment to pushing boundaries within club music, setting the tone for what follows. It is a statement of intent, a powerful introduction that signals her uncompromising vision and her push against the conventions of the genre.
"Come Out," a triple collaboration with Text Chunk and Sven K, emerges as one of the album's most compelling moments. Created during an intense, psychedelic winter studio session, the track captures the chaotic synergy of its creators. Sampling a popular Miami-duo's vocals, "Come Out" intertwines frenetic juke rhythms with an ecstatic, unhinged groove, pulling listeners into a locked-in, immersive experience that embodies the album's collaborative spirit.
"Elysium Rounds" draws on Hood Joplin & Text Chunk's deep appreciation for the electro sounds of the 80s and 90s, the track captures that wistful essence while remaining forward-thinking, weaving classic electro influences with a modern sensibility that showcases their shared vision and creative synergy. With "Virtual Network," Hood Joplin catapults us into a chaotic juke/trap vision, blending intricate experimental layers that keep the listener on edge. "Critical," first introduced on our Kudatah Vol. 3 compilation, finds a new life here, pushing its kinetic, frenetic elements further into the spotlight. The closing track, "Natural Response," diverges with an ambient, deep-textured jungle buildup, showcasing a more introspective side while maintaining a palpable tension.
Crafted between Toronto and Edmonton, "This, That, and the Third" embodies Hood Joplin's resilience and fearless sonic exploration. Drawing from a diverse pool of influences including DJ Rashad, Clipse, and her dearly loved cats, Hip Hop and Dilla, the album is a celebration of genre fusion and the raw, electrifying energy of the club. Shaped by the harsh Canadian winters that invite deep introspection, the record captures an artist at the height of her creativity—boldly redefining the boundaries of modern electronic music.
Mixed & Mastered by Text Chunk at K-Labs.
Art & Design by Patrick McMullin.