Dot Demo is a Bronx, New York native whose affinity for the thought-provoking content on songs like “Blak Gesus” and his 2014 mixtape Delta Theory has set him apart from many of his contemporaries. Having grown up around unorthodox and left-of-mainstream teachings and experiences, he was exposed to metaphysical and philosophical approaches to life at a young age, and that influence is a central component of his music. His forthcoming project is entitled Somewhere In Nirvana (S.I.N.), a project that crystallizes his views that life’s trials and tribulations manifest themselves daily, but that we have the option to experience them as obstacles or steps towards a deeper sense of consciousness. As he tells Ambrosia for Heads, “nirvana basically is heaven and we avoid sinning everyday to get there but [we] fail. Sin is my interpretation of heaven on earth and the sinful things we do to stay at peace and sane.” With this project.” With the upcoming album, he hopes to instill in his listeners the will to accept the truth about how the world works, something personified by the song “Indigenous Man.”

Many Heads may recognize the influence Black Moon has had on Dot Demo when listening to the track, with its dark and somber sound. Dot Demo considers the Brooklyn duo one of his personal favorites, along with artists like Big Pun, Jay Z, Nas, and UGK. But, when it comes to how he constructs his music, it’s Erykah Badu and J Dilla who “really helped pioneer” how he goes about making his sound. There are remnants of those two in “Indigenous Man,” as well. With an early reference to the Gods & the Earths, the track is clearly the product of an enlightened artist whose teachings are reminiscent of those from the Poor Righteous Teachers. In whole, the song is a rallying cry for the disenfranchised, neglected, and misled whose ability to reach full personal growth is thwarted by those in positions of power. Its title is a reference to human beings’ beginnings in Africa, considered to be the anthropological “Cradle of Life,” where we first developed and from whence we first began exploring the rest of the world. A close examination of the song’s lyrics make it evident Dot Demo’s message applies to many of us, perhaps most specifically those victimized by racism and contemporary issues like police brutality, the overwhelming majority of whom are people of color. “Indigenous Man” serves to remind them of their intrinsic power, and is a plea to remember their direct ancestors, without whom none of this would exist.

In addition to being a gifted MC, his interest in directing is something the young artist hopes to build upon. Having co-directed the stunning visual accompaniment to “Blak Gesus,” he’s got his sights set on the work of others artists, whether musical or otherwise. In showing the viewer “the rawest part of my mind,” Dot Demo’s approach to music is inextricably connected to his appreciation of the visual, something that promises to bring about some very thoughtfully produced mini-movies to bring his lyrics to life. When asked about a release date for S.I.N., the response was “real soon,” and that 2016 will be year that focuses on consistency, not only in his own music but in projects he will be pursuing with UltraNostra Records and 1Luv Entertainment. In the meantime, check out “Indigenous Man” below.

Check out Ambrosia for Heads’ Spotlight Series.