Albums | Electro-soul guitarist/producer Phyphr unveils hip-hop-infused single “Reaction” off upcoming debut LP Catalyst

Posted by VMan on February 13, 2023

Guitarist/producer Phyphr is one of Denver’s most hotly-tipped talents, making waves with his electro-soul stylings and funky, electronic songwriting. Dedicated to inspiring his listeners, the artist has a DIY, self-produced ethos that’s intrinsic to his artistic expression and messaging: for Phyphr, everyone should be empowered to find their passion and make positive change for themselves and the world. Phyphr’s own hard work and focus have led to to a unique performance style that blends live guitar playing with immaculate electronic production – a vibrant mix that’s earned him opportunities to perform alongside acts like The Floozies, Daily Bread, Manic Focus, SoDown, and Maddy O’Neal.

Now, the dynamic maestro is revving up toward his debut album, Catalyst – a genre-hopping, full-length LP that’s brimming with raucous beats, textural grooves, and indelible hooks. Chronicling Phyphr’s ongoing journey as an artist, Catalyst is designed to spark creative inspiration in his listeners through vivid, relatable storytelling and honest reflection.

Fans got their first tastes of Catalyst with the blues-inflected “Seven Days,” featuring fellow Denver-based producer Kaptain; the boisterous, bass-fueled “Down The Street”; and “Still Turnin’,” a bouncy homage to the glory of used record stores and finding musical gems in their dusty bins.

Now, Phyphr releases “Reaction,” a hip-hop-infused electronic cut that stays true to the LP’s central message. In touch with the song’s repeated refrain -“every action causes a reaction” – the song elicits a perpetual call-and-response, both sonically and thematically. The track complements its lyrics with production elements that subside just to give way to new ones, asking the listener to think for themselves: “Will you cause a reaction?”

“Reaction” kicks off with a sweeping, sun-tinted guitar solo in front of Phyphr’s pitched-down vocals. Rolling drum patterns then build up with guitar licks and vocal layers underlying the central lyrical refrain before dropping into a dubstep breakdown. Filled to the brim with deep bass wubs and extra-terrestrial synth sound design over a booming beat, Phyphr showcases his seasoned production chops by seamlessly blending different genres and sounds.

“Reaction” continues Phyphr’s tradition of spreading positivity to his listeners, encouraging them to make active choices in their lives. The song is appropriately kinetic and spontaneous, ready to charm fans with its infectious energy and poise.

Following a run of Colorado shows that saw Phyphr amaze hometown fans with his live performance prowess, the producer is now taking his show to the southwest for support slots in Austin, Dallas, and Santa Fe. In April, he will return to Denver for a headlining slot at Denver’s art experience space Meow Wolf Denver, where fans will be able to hear “Reaction” and other Catalyst cuts.

Phyphr tour dates

2/10/23: Empire Control Room – Austin, TX

2/11/23: Deep Ellum Art Company – Dallas, TX

2/17/23: Meow Wolf – Santa Fe, NM

4/7/23: Meow Wolf Denver – Denver, CO

4/21/23 – 4/23/23: Wub N Dub Festival 2023 – Willard, NC