Album Review: Minimal Minnesota Presents Monumental Minnesota
In 2019, Minimal Minnesota dropped Monumental Minnesota, an eclectic fusion of electronic soundscapes and experimental vibes under the 7FORM label. With genres spanning Electronic, Non-Music, and Hip Hop, this album dives deep into styles like Public Broadcast, Illbient, Vaporwave, and Abstract. It’s not your typical listen—this is a project that demands attention, reflection, and maybe even a raised eyebrow or two.
One track that sticks out is “Minimal Minnesota Says: ‘Keep On Trucking!’” The title alone feels like a mantra for perseverance wrapped in sonic chaos. The beat shifts unpredictably, blending glitchy textures with a faintly retro vibe that tugs at nostalgia without fully committing to it. You’re left wondering if you’re listening to a deconstructed radio broadcast from another dimension. It’s quirky but oddly motivating—a reminder to just keep pushing forward, no matter how weird life gets.
Another standout is “Build Your Strength.” This one lingers because of its layered complexity. At first, it seems sparse, almost skeletal, but as it progresses, subtle details emerge—faint echoes, distorted whispers, and a bassline so low it feels more like a presence than a sound. It’s the kind of track that sneaks up on you, leaving an impression long after it ends. If motivation had a darker, moodier cousin, this would be it.
What makes Monumental Minnesota memorable isn’t just its technical craftsmanship; it’s the way it defies easy categorization. It doesn’t try too hard to impress—it simply exists, raw and unapologetic. Sure, some parts might feel disjointed or overly abstract, but that’s part of its charm. Listening to it feels like flipping through someone’s brainwaves, catching glimpses of thoughts they didn’t even know they had.
Here’s the unexpected twist: while reviewing this album, I realized it’s less about music and more about experience. It’s not background noise—it’s foreground living. By the time the last track fades, you’re left wondering whether you’ve been entertained, educated, or just plain bewildered. And honestly? That’s kinda beautiful.
So, give Monumental Minnesota a spin—but don’t expect answers. Expect questions. Lots of ‘em.
