plain speaking is the lucid new release by scallops hotel, the candid alter ego of chicago poet and producer milo. a robust introduction for his new label imprint ruby yacht, the album blends experimental production and endearing beats with open, honest rhymes. plain speaking is profound yet accessible, a solid handhold to grasp onto amidst the chaos of the modern world. easy yet serious, lighthearted and sincere, plain speaking immediately draws the listener inward. the albums first single lavender chunk featuring hemlock ernst aka samuel t. herring of future islands leans back into a simpler time, remembered like a hazy dream. slanting darker and submerged inside echoes, tense present flips from contemplative flow into a stream of comforting clarity. true nen is a thoughtful track that breathes deeply, an offering of assurance over discord. plain speaking is a remedy, the cure for the common conversation. the familial tones and straightforward flow of scallops hotel function like an outstretched hand. plain speaking never pushes, rather it invites you to sit and listen. to have hope, and to heal through art.

with the clarity of a lucid dream, milos new album so the flies dont come combines sharp spoken words and riveting beats into an irrefutable work of art. his music is expansively original, like a science experiment whose constants are poetry and philosophy. so the flies dont come features a crisp cast of guest artists: myka 9, elucid, open mike eagle, and hemlock ernst aka samuel t.herring of future islands all bring their distinctive talents to the sonic table. interesting breaks create a refreshing cadence in souvenir (feat.hemlock ernst) a stroll through the park that playfully pauses in thought. let your soul fly with zen scientist (feat.myka 9) and tilt into the bright light as yomilo wrenches down the beat. a breathless finale to the album, song about a raygunn (an ode to driver) sends off the listener with an undeniable burst of energy. chill but aware, clever yet inviting. so the flies dont come is a skillful showcase for milos articulate wit, expressive warmth, and gifted production