Earl Sweatshirt, MIKE, and Surf Gang reveal upcoming album titled ‘POMPEII / UTILITY’
ARL Sweatshirt and MIKE, known figures in the underground rap scene, have joined forces to create a new album solely produced by the innovative collective SURF GANG. The album, named POMPEII / UTILITY, is set to be released in less than a month and appears to be a double album featuring MIKE on the first half and Earl Sweatshirt on the second. Both artists have already released singles, accompanied by a music video showcasing their collaboration.
The duo of MIKE and Earl Sweatshirt have been mutual sources of inspiration for each other for years, cultivating a steady collaborative relationship since 2020, when Earl made an appearance on MIKE’s track “allstar.” The infusion of SURF GANG’s frisky and energetic sound into their work is highly anticipated, given their successful past collaborations. Notably, SURF GANG’s leader, evilgiane, produced Earl’s acclaimed single “Making The Band (Danity Kane)” in 2023. Additionally, both Earl and MIKE each released albums last year, with Earl dropping Live Laugh Love and MIKE releasing Showbiz!, along with the collaborative project Pinball 2 with Tony Seltzer. In 2023, SURF GANG partnered with UK rapper Jawnino for the collaborative effort amnesia, while evilgiane released the instrumental album Giane 2 in January.
MIKE’s portion of POMPEII / UTILITY showcases featured appearances from talents like Anysia Kim, Niontay, Jadasea, and Na-Kel Smith, with Earl Sweatshirt making an appearance on one track. Earl’s segment of the album includes collaborations with MIKE and Lerado Khali. The album boasts an extensive tracklist with a total of 33 tracks, split between 15 by MIKE and 18 by Earl. The music video includes MIKE’s track “Minty,” produced by evilgiane and Pentagrvm, alongside Earl’s song “Earth,” produced by SURF GANG member Harrison. The video, directed by Ian Lopez and Richard Phillip Smith, features MIKE, Earl, and their friends hanging out around striking mountainous beaches, reminiscent of a scene from One Battle After Another.
Excitement for POMPEII / UTILITY extends beyond the album release, as Hypebeast reports that Earl Sweatshirt and MIKE are planning a tour in North America and Europe this summer. The tour dates have been listed, promising a series of live performances for fans to experience their collaborative work in person.
In conclusion, POMPEII / UTILITY is set to be an enthralling addition to the discographies of Earl Sweatshirt and MIKE, showcasing their dynamic and innovative partnership alongside the creative flair of SURF GANG. The album’s impending release and accompanying tour signal an exciting chapter in the careers of these influential artists in the underground rap scene.