III impresses as a dynamic, stylistic unveiling of works from Canadian producer Boni, a founding member of the experimental electronic group Fried Dough. Prioritizing “feels right” energy over high-gloss production, the album unearths a decade of songwriting that ventures from acid-drenched house loops to Chemical Brothers-inspired breakbeats. This collection also bridges gritty industrial-rock influences with heartfelt IDM, resulting in an eclectic yet cohesive offering of songs that continuously captivate in their melodic drives and scenic soundscapes.
An expressive bluesy piano progression opens the album as the immersive “Big City” gets underway. A rustling rhythmic subtleness expands to a pulsing entrancement, as bouncy bass and spacey synth buzzes move in seamlessly alongside. A spoken-word vocal emerges thereafter, its “walking alone in the cold dark city” scene-setting combining with the urban bustle’s sense of isolation — though also conveying a lively, embracing daily rhythm in its overall landscape. A twinkling piano addition stirs further as the three-minute turn approaches, furthering a delectably odd house music interpretation. III doesn’t waste time establishing a stylish, melodic intrigue, which never lets up across seven tracks.
“Leave with Nolan” follows, entering the more synth-loving realm, even as memorable rhythmic elements and smatterings of guitar ease in beautifully. The primary driving force is a gurgling, overdriven bass-synth that dazzles with a steady invigoration, interacting with breakbeat rhythms for a wholly infectious sound; the production’s Chemical Brothers influence is enjoyably apparent. The ensuing “BminJam” shifts back to a rock-ready realm, with “na, na” vocal harmonies, debonair electric guitar infusions, and hypnotic bass crafting a replay-inducing allure. “I don’t mind, how you take up all my time,” smooth vocals open, its “shake it” beckoning pairing with grooving rhythms and guitars for a fantastic result. “Bad Times” resembles a comedown in its follow-up, with soulful vocal layers and moody piano blending gorgeously.
Another standout track, “She Always” struts an effervescent synth-pop character, navigating between chirpy vibrancy and “I will not look down” solemn introspections. A mellow, delightful sound then takes hold on “Otto,” evolving from rain samples and pulsing piano elegance into jazzy rhythms and blaring synths — making for a sound fondly reminiscent of Oneohtrix Point Never in its stunning twists and turns. Album finale “Serious” arrives subsequently, touting a piano-forward experimental rock character that develops into fervent guitar work and hazy synth frequencies. An eclectic, consistently melodic success of an album, III is a thorough success from Boni.
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