Genre blending is the modus operandi for multi-instrumentalist and producer Kyle Norton, based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. “I Feel Like I’m on Fire”, the lead track of his debut EP under new moniker Norty, is testament to that. With a electronic bedrock, it opens with an anachronistic jazz lounge bassline, piano notes, and brushed drums. The atmosphere is thick and swirls like curlicues of smoke as tempos shift, Norty’s relaxed vocals and hip hop beats join the sound collage.
The song hails from the three-song EP Thank You For Trying This Demo. The mini record is a prelude to a full-length expected to be released in July on the Young Heavy Souls record label.
Norty, previously known as Nortroniks, gained attention for his fresh take on electronic music production and fun, high¬-energy live performances fueled by live instrumentation and consistent progression, according to his website. He’s performed at such festivals as Serenity Gathering in Joshua Tree, California, and Electric Forest in Rothbury, Michigan.
More recently, Norty has joined with MC Friendly to form dance-rap group Obese Ghost Children.