serpentwithfeet is currently embracing the natural ebb and flow of life. Born in Baltimore, Maryland, this singer-songwriter draws inspiration from a diverse group of luminaries such as Geoffrey Holder, Toni Morrison, Brandy, and Nina Simone. As a multifaceted artist, he gracefully transitions from one chapter of his career to the next. His third release, GRIP, is a testament to his evolving journey. This album is a celebration of Black Gay club culture, encapsulating both the collective vibrations of the dancefloor and the personal connections that extend beyond it.
GRIP and the environment of the Black gay club present an intriguing contrast—the club itself is a space of public exposure, a place of visual interaction. Yet, these same spaces offer a haven of privacy and intimacy, a “for us” sentiment that lends a protective and nurturing atmosphere. It was within these welcoming environments that serpentwithfeet discovered a fresh sense of solace and inspiration. These feelings and experiences will be brought to life in his forthcoming dance theater piece, Heart Of Brick, which delves into the diminishing presence of queer Black nightlife venues and the narratives they hold.
The album delves into the nuances of personal contact and touch—examining the meaning behind a hold on the waist or caress of the face. With a unique perspective, serpentwithfeet meticulously examines these interactions,
“Going out while working on the album and seeing how people stood at the bar when ordering a drink, Are they on their phone trying to disappear from the scene? Are they flirting with the bartender? Are they writing slowly to the music? What does it look like when a guy runs into his ex and that ex is with someone new? I’m curious about all of this.”
GRIP starts with “Damn Gloves,” featuring Ty Dolla $ign, a lively dance track that serves as a bold and exhilarating introduction to the album, breaking from his history of more subdued openers. “Safe Word” delves into the profound intimacy of a deep relationship, while “Spades” pays homage to the patience and connection found in teaching a significant other the card game deeply rooted in Black culture.
The album is an introspective look at the communities that shaped serpent’s formative years as both an adolescent and an adult. By giving voice to these influences over ten tracks, he offers a tribute to a community that profoundly impacted him. Throughout his seven-year career, serpentwithfeet has showcased his versatile approach to experimental R&B, traversing themes of sorrow, spirituality, and joy. Following his second album DEACON, released two years prior, serpentwithfeet continues to redefine his artistic boundaries with GRIP.
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Feature photo by Denzel Golatt @denzelgolatt
GRIP is out now: https://serpentwithfeet.lnk.to/GRIP
