Confused By Death Grips? Start With The Money Store

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Post on Feb 11, 2025

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Confused by Death Grips? Start With The Money Store

Death Grips. The name itself conjures images of abrasive noise, chaotic energy, and a relentless sonic assault. For the uninitiated, diving headfirst into their discography can feel like being thrown into a mosh pit blindfolded. But fear not, aspiring fans! There's a perfect entry point to this experimental hip-hop behemoth: The Money Store.

Why The Money Store is the Perfect Starting Point

Released in 2012, The Money Store acts as a potent distillation of Death Grips' essence. It's shorter than many of their other albums, clocking in around 30 minutes, making it a manageable introduction to their often overwhelming sound. While still undeniably aggressive and unconventional, it offers a clearer path into their chaotic genius than some of their more sprawling and experimental works.

A Balanced Blend of Aggression and Accessibility

The Money Store expertly balances Death Grips' signature sonic violence with surprisingly catchy hooks and memorable rhythms. Songs like "I've Seen Footage" and "The Fever (Aye Aye)" showcase their abrasive side, but even within this intensity, there's a certain structure and memorability that makes them instantly gripping. Meanwhile, tracks like "Get Got" and "Black Dice" hint at a more nuanced side, incorporating elements of melody and unexpected shifts in tempo.

Here's what makes it so accessible:

• Shorter track lengths: Most songs are under three minutes, keeping the listener engaged without overwhelming them.
• Catchy hooks: Despite the noise, many songs feature memorable vocal lines and repetitive rhythms that stick with you.
• Varied soundscapes: The album explores a wider range of sounds and textures than some of their other, more focused projects.
• Strong production: Zach Hill's drumming and Ride's production are phenomenal, showcasing both technical proficiency and creative flair.

Deconstructing the Chaos: Key Tracks to Focus On

To truly appreciate The Money Store, it's helpful to dive into some of its standout tracks:

• "I've Seen Footage": This is the quintessential Death Grips experience. It's aggressive, relentless, and instantly iconic. Pay attention to Hill's complex drumming and MC Ride's guttural vocals.
• "Get Got": A slightly more melodic track that showcases the band's ability to create compelling rhythms even within their chaotic sound.
• "The Fever (Aye Aye)": This track perfectly captures the album's energetic and unpredictable nature.
• "Lock Your Doors": A dark and unsettling track with a haunting melody that lingers long after the song ends.

Beyond The Money Store: Exploring the Death Grips Universe

Once you've conquered The Money Store, you'll have a much better understanding of Death Grips' aesthetic and sonic approach. You'll be better equipped to tackle their other albums, like Exmilitary (their raw, lo-fi debut), Government Plates (a more experimental and sprawling effort), and Niggas on the Moon (a collaboration with Andy Morin).

Pro-Tip: Listen to The Money Store multiple times. Its complexity rewards repeated listens, revealing new layers and nuances with each playthrough.

Embrace the Noise: Why Death Grips Matter

Death Grips aren't just a band; they're a cultural phenomenon. Their influence can be heard across various genres, and their unwavering commitment to their unique vision has cemented their place in music history. Starting with The Money Store is the key to unlocking a truly unique and rewarding musical experience. So, take the plunge – you might just find yourself completely captivated by their chaotic brilliance.