Formerly known as “Amplified,” Amp Melo is a genre-bending rapper and singer from Santa Cruz, CA. Combining polished Hip-Hop bars and soulful R&B melodies, Amp weaves his sound through the fabrics of classic and fresh with a diverse range of voicings and soundscapes. Amp’s sound resembles influences from The Roots, Blu & Exile, Aloe Blacc, Logic, Mos Def, and Atmosphere. Melo’s debut album, Off The Bench, was released on October 18.
Welcome to the bouncy funk of Melo’s “Under Pressure.” This stand-out from the artist’s impressive debut LP captures the innocent fun of a pick-up game at the park while showcasing the artist’s maturity and dynamic vocals. The fact that Melo could find such a unique pocket over this minimalistic yet thudding instrumental is a testament to his vocal abilities, and we haven’t even gotten to the chorus yet. Before our very eyes, Melo constructs an almost pop-like hook that employs an infectious melody in a celebratory fashion. The funk influences sit on top of Melo’s modern interpretation of them, giving us a taste of the artist’s influences while leaving us in awe at how he reimagines them. There are layers of funk, pop, and Hip-hop present on “Under Pressure,” but the way he crafts the tune makes it feel like one big welcoming party. Melo’s relaxed vocals are juxtaposed with the dense drums, creating an enticing sonic conflict that blurs the lines between genres. Melo’s acrobatic vocals take center stage on “Under Pressure” as the artist navigates subtle hints of jazz and thick bass lines to create a sun-drenched anthem that sticks with you long after the song ends.
