Album Review: Kydd Jones releases Onyx d’Or (No More Waiting)
Austin MC and singer/songwriter, Kydd Jones has released new album, Onyx d’Or (No More Waiting) on January 7 to launch 2022 on a high note.
The catchy, laid-back introduction track, “Harpoon,” gets things rolling with crooning chants, leading into the album’s second number, “Crispy Sprite,” which incorporates witty wordplay delivered in similar fashion to the introductory track. It is a perfect segue to what follows.
Onyx d’Or hits its stride with “Jet Seats,” a track that transitions the tone of the LP, and features another Austin-based Hip-Hop artist, Quin NFN. “Sprinter” then follows, building on the momentum of the previous track before the album hits an apex with the poignant examination of modern American life that is ”Goblin.” The number resonates emotionally as well as musically, incorporating melodies and instrumentation that act as the perfect vessel for conveying the song’s message.
As the album progresses, Kydd Jones rotates catchy hooks with rhymes and wordplay that become increasingly complex.Onyx d’Or ( No More Waiting) wraps up gracefully with “Free Your Mind,” featuring Felly.
Jones was born and raised in Austin, spending most of his formative years on the south and east sides of town. The second oldest of eight, Jones began making music with his brother at age nine. Signed to a record deal at age 15, Kydd Jones’ musical journey has led him to work with a multitude of musicians from all corners of the country, for a time, residing in New York and Atlanta.
You may have spotted Jones performing with Gary Clark Jr. at the Austin City Limits Music Festival, at The Domain, performing a runway show for Austin Fashion Week, performing post game at the Dell Diamond, or at SXSW in 2019. He’s been invited back to perform at Sx this year.
The Austin-based artist has also performed at such events as the Billboard Hot 100 Fest at Jones Beach, NY, the BrooklynHip-Hop Festival, NXNE (Toronto), and various other music-focus events.
Kydd Jones worked on the Onyx d’Or throughout the lock-down from his home, collaborating with Austin producer N.I.P., sending works back and forth.
A deluxe edition of Onyx d’Or ( No More Waiting) available on Bandcamp, featuring an impressive nine additional tracks (16 total), with appearances by Y2, Tank Washington, Bryson Brown, and Jackie Venson.
In addition to the deluxe edition of Onyx d’Or, Jones is considering the release of several demos he crafted during the lock-down that have not yet been heard by the public.
What’s most impressive about Onyx d’Or is its balance. Themes of frustration and satisfaction; desperation and hope; anticipation and reflection are conveyed via high-quality production with mass appeal and succinct lyricism in poised fashion.
Catch Kydd Jones’ Comedy Jam event tomorrow at Antone’s Nightclub. Tickets can be purchased in advance or at Antone’s box office.
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