Interview: 72DEMONS
TRICK THE DEVIL is the first full release by Long Beach-based artist Hal Williams as “72DEMONS.” Known for their collaborative work in the groups WILMAVRITRA and Odd Future’s The Jet Age of Tomorrow, as well as solo work as Vritra, this project marks a sonic pivot, exploring a darker palette of melodies, textures, and instruments. Pain, love, lust, anger, impatience, and infatuation are channeled into a concise, focused dive into the mind of 72DEMONS and their first attempt at taming their own.
What inspires your music?
Life and the emotion it evokes, skateboarding culture, and human interaction/communication.
Who are some of your influences?
The Neptunes, The Mars Volta, Charli xcx, Machinedrum, Nite Jewel, James Pants.
What are some of your favorite memories from your career?
Every year, there is a new favorite memory, but I would say my work and times as part of the groups “The Jet Age of Tomorrow” and “WILMAVRITRA” were really great creative spaces that helped me gain the confidence to try new things and experiment.
Which of your projects do you love the most?
From this project, my favorite is the track “DESTROI”. Everything fell into place and came together fairly quickly and kind of shifted the tone of the album.
Who are some of the collaborators who helped you create your favorite works?
For this project it’s mostly just me. I tend to lean into self-production for albums. This time around, there’s some guest production by Serafae (ig @serafae.wav) and guest vocals by T Duchesss (ig @tduchesss)
What are you most excited to bring to your fans next?
A new perspective. A lot of my previously released music is more rap-based. This marks a slight departure and expansion into a more experimental territory. Looking forward to sharing that and shifting the direction of things.
What are your goals for this upcoming year?
Just to make more music. Always to make more music. I’m finishing up the project to release next year after TRICK THE DEVIL is out. Preparing the fans for more in that direction. Looking to reach more people and work more.
How can your fans and our readers best support you right now?
By visiting, getting merch from, or listening on WDYSWYEC.COM
Watch 72DEMONS perform “BIRDS” live, brought to you by Silver Gun Records: