MISSIO’S latest album, “I Am Cinco,” really makes a statement with its musical chops and sheer grandeur. In a time when singles rule the roost, opting for a double album is a gutsy move that immediately grabs your attention. It’s not every day artists take on such ambitious projects, and MISSIO ‘S decision to bring together all their previously dropped EPs into one unified masterpiece is impressive.

The album’s concept alone is captivating – each EP representing a different aspect of human emotion: sadness, joy, empowerment, and anger. Now, with the release of the fifth and final EP, “I Am Crazy,” the entire spectrum of human experience is laid bare. It’s a deeply intimate journey through life’s ups and downs, set to a backdrop of eclectic musical influences.

photo by ImaGene Loop

Diving into “I Am Cinco,” you’re struck by how seamlessly MISSIO blends genres. From the gritty guitars of rock to the thumping beats of electronic, and the reflective poetry of indie mixed with the raw passion of hip-hop, every track showcases the duo’s adaptability and talent. In the words of David Butler, “We experience a wide range of emotions. The way we navigate life is how we crafted ‘I Am Cinco.’ It’s a reflection of humanity and a compilation of our personal journeys.”

MISSIO’S decision to merge all their EPs into one cohesive album is truly one of the most unique ideas I’ve come across lately. It’s a bold move that speaks volumes about their artistic vision and commitment to creating a holistic musical experience. In an age where the music industry often leans towards quick, single releases for maximum impact, this decision to compile their work into a comprehensive journey is refreshing.

Despite the album containing 26 tracks, there’s an incredible fluidity to the music; it doesn’t feel drawn out or overstretched. Instead, the entire album flows seamlessly, almost as if it were meant to be experienced in one continuous breath. This cohesion is a hallmark of high-quality craftsmanship, demonstrating MISSIO’S ability to maintain dynamics and engagement throughout the entire listening experience. And you know, I’ve repeatedly observed that when this happens, it speaks to their mastery as artists and composers, ensuring that each song contributes significantly to the overarching narrative of “I Am Cinco.”

The album can be described as ever-changing and designed for any mood. For instance, Disc 1 opens with the track “I’m Sad and I Can’t Speak,” which sets a melancholic tone. The style and gentleness of the sound immediately disconnect you from reality. Meanwhile, “I Don’t Like It When You’re Lonely” creates a hypnotic atmosphere reminiscent of a gentle, strange spring night. Stylish synth pads, a swinging rhythm, and flawless commercial vocals blend into a warm sound that lingers in the memory.

photo by ImaGene Loop

I appreciate that Disc 2 introduces a deeper and more demanding mood, as evidenced in tracks like “Thang Thang” and “Big Stacks.” By shifting the mood and adding darker, more epic sounds, the release gains new dimensions.

If you ever crave a neon-lit night and the atmosphere of a passionate synth club is essential, then turn on Disc 3. Each track in this part has a cool yet sexy atmosphere that is captivating. I was particularly struck by “Goodbye to the Old Me” and “Making Me Nervous.” It felt like being at the center of the most luxurious party. Flawless!

The musicians push boundaries and embrace a new genre in Disc 4. Fiery, groovy pop-rock tracks like “Rage,” “This World Is Better When It’s Sick,” and “Go Fuck Yourself” showcase how great it is when musicians can release commercial music across genres and are willing to experiment. This is what sets MISSIO apart – their desire to follow their passions, produce any music, and not be confined to one genre.

In the final disc, Disc 5, the sound is stylish, sometimes somber, and intense. Melancholy breaks through the beats and grips your heart. The final track “Time” is one of the saddest and most poignant. It leaves such a deep impression that you want to shout, “Don’t end the release. I want more!” Simply impeccable!

MISSIO is hitting the road with a huge tour this June to drop their latest vibes from the ‘I AM CINCO’ album live across multiple cities. Packed with their trademark mix of cool, occasionally hazy tracks—from chill acoustic vibes to high-octane bangers—the tour is set to be as electric and immersive as the album itself. Known for their killer shows filled with vibrant energy and slick performances, a MISSIO concert is the ultimate plunge into their sonic universe. Score your tickets now at this link and be part of the hype!

*This review was made possible by SubmitHub