The Internet’s Live Show Sets Them Apart From All…Even From A Tiny Desk (Video)

As much as a crew mentality can help a family tree of talent get on (see: Wu-Tang Clan, N.W.A., or Diggin’ In The Crates), sometimes an entity supersedes an affiliation. In the case of The Internet, Syd tha Kyd, Matt Martians and company played a background in OFWGKTA’s 2011 breakthrough. While Tyler, The Creator, Hodgy Beats, and Earl Sweatshirt made marks by being bigger than life characters, the fusion of Hip-Hop, Soul, and Jazz from the Los Angeles, California-based duo seemed subdued. Yes, it added to Odd Future’s range and depth, but The Internet never crashed the party quite like its moshing, outspoken brothers.

By 2015, The Internet may be the most consistent faction of the arguably estranged family. Syd and Matt are now backed by Columbia Records, releasing the Top 200-reaching Ego Death this summer. Recorded in Syd’s basement, the LP maintains the makeshift attitude of the band, while suggesting its range. Moreover, a regularly touring act, The Internet has won over legions of fans through captivating concerts. The latest guests in NPR’s Tiny Desk series, Syd, Matt, and the rest of the band play “Get Away,” “Under Control” and catch-up 2013 hit “Dontcha.” These album songs come to life on video in a way few artists can claim, showing why sometimes less is more—and great performances truly don’t rely on crowd size.

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