The Code has, as a pair, been able to pull away with their own alluring sound within the downtempo R&B realm they've been a part of. It's one that's been embedded with rich, textured R&B over the course of their previous, impressive releases, and with such previous efforts consistently initiating a rather titillating atmosphere, you’d expect nothing less on their eleven-piece debut album, 1|11. We’ve already thoroughly delved into UK-based duo’s sound, and even though it has been quite a chore pinpointing their influences, their work on the other hand has been effortlessly engrossing, and increasingly addictive over time. From their percolating vocals, to quite an avant-garde take on R&B, The Code’s ability to diffuse a sedating vibe almost seems unchallenged—but it’s far from that, particularly due to the intricacy of each of the tracks, the astuteness in choice, and amalgamation of future sounds throughout. What also protrudes amongst the act’s work is the unanticipated buoyancy nestled within the tranquilizing undertones, as evidence on efforts like “9.46”, “Her”, “Run” and “Hide”. Another crucial element in The Code's production has been the unconventional arrangement of all the elements within, and we see this fact exemplified with their hefty basslines and ingenious percussion suffusing all around it to further to give an excessively riveting feel. The latter claim is noticeable on the G-Easy-assisted “Gravity”, as well as on unhurried trap-heavy pieces “Natural” and “Hide”. 1|11 in its entirety is quite an adventure itself, featuring the likes of soul singer Kaleem Taylor and hip-hop artist KasFlow, but, of course, The Code has pieces that stay true to their seductive sampling ways, including alongside them dexterous editing of their own spectacular vocals. Definitely spend time with the work then, to absorb and appreciate all within, and after you scan through our favorite cuts below, make it a point to hear the full album over on SoundCloud.
The Code