L.A., Cali DJ/production trio Cheat Codes absolutely ‘kill it’, taking it ‘next level’ on their debut, six-song EP, ‘Level 1.’

Los Angeles, California production team Cheat Codes are comprised of three different DJs: Trevor Dahl, Kevin Ford, and Matthew Russell. The trio’s biggest hit is “No Promises” featuring Demi Lovato.  After releasing several superb singles, the DJs have dropped an EP, Level 1.  Comprised of six songs clocking in at a total of 18 minutes, Level 1 is a tight, rewarding listen.  There are no duds – just three talented dudes and some friends.

“I Love It”

Level 1 commences with “I Love It”, assisted by Canadian EDM duo DVBBS. “I Love It” features shiny production work with a sick beat, popping synths, and a feeling of EDM heaven, if such a place exists.  The record begins by asking three luxurious questions: “500 suits?” “Rolls Royce?” and “Lincoln Continental?” These questions set the tone for the first and second verse, both of which also feature three questions.  On the first verse, Trevor Dahl questions himself about his behaviors (hard work, smoking, relationships), while on the second, he focuses exclusively on love/relationships (“Why do I feel the need to leave you like it’s nothing?”). The chorus is the centerpiece, switching from questions to clear-cut statements – the answers if you will.

“We’ll, I’ve been drinking every night because I love it

And I’m wearing off-white because I love it

And I’m spending all the money in the budget

Oh, easy does it, oh yeah, oh yeah.”

“Balenciaga”

“Balenciaga” follows, in all its luxuriousness.  While some elements of the record are predictable, Cheat Codes does a great job of providing variation.  During the sung, lyrical portions of “Balenciaga,” the production tends to favor the smooth vibes of urban contemporary/urban-pop music.  It’s still under the umbrella of dance ultimately, but this alone shows more range.  Thematically, the luxurious song focuses on materialism and superficiality, regarding a man buying expensive things for his girl – #Gold Digger.

“I wonder, baby, do I even bother?

Do you ever think about me?

Bought you Balenciaga and Prada

That boujee kinda love ain’t cheap.”

The instrumental section, post-drop, is clearly EDM-oriented – readymade for the dancefloor. Notably, the synths are hard and biting, particularly one patterned after low brass.  Furthermore, Cheat Codes anchors things down with a punchy, danceable beat.  Dance on CC, dance on.

“NSFW”

“This shit ain’t safe for work.” Danny Quest joins Cheat Codes on the short, but absolutely sweet “NSFW”.  First and foremost, the production is magnificent. The beat is killer, while the synths opt for a harder texture. Unapologetically dance, from the opening tip (with vocal gimmickry), it’s apparent “NSFW” has ‘jam’ written all over it.  It’s minimal and incredibly repetitive, but that’s ultimately the charm.  The few lyrics, excerpted above, are sufficient, playing a sizable role in the infectiousness of the record.  Namely, the dropping the ‘s-bomb’ only enhances the personality – the feisty, sexual vibe of “NSFW.”

“It’s nasty, it’s dope

This shit ain’t safe for work

I said no shoes, no shirt

This shit ain’t safe for work.”

“Activate”

“Activate” keeps the flex-fest going for Cheat Codes.  That’s saying something since “Activate” has quite the tough act to follow after “NSFW.”  Like everything that’s preceded it, the synths are sharp, the beat goes hard, and the minor-key brings out the devilishness in the activation, sigh.

The DJs remain turned-up on the briefer “The Concept,” which effectively blends dance, hip-hop, and a dash of international flavor as well.  The repetitive rhymes are cocky, confident, and perfect fuel for a swagger-filled fire… or something like that.  The drums pummel, the synths cut like a knife, and clearly Cheat Codes are in “Beast Mode”.

Speaking of beast mode, one of the most beastly records on Level 1 is “Boing Boing” which straight-up fire. The Seige guest and absolutely kill it with give-no-flips, unapologetic rhymes.  The electricity is legit, as Cheat Codes deliver some of the hottest production of the EP.  Perhaps sleek and slick are overused, but there are no better adjectives to characterize the backdrop.

Final Thoughts

Yeah, Cheat Codes totally “kick ass and take names” on Level 1 (EP).  Over the course of 18 minutes these dudes don’t miss a ‘beat’ literally.  They also don’t make a bad decision about synth or any other sound effects.  It will be totally rad to see what a full-length album sounds like.  If it ends up being on the level of Level 1, then it’ll be nothing short of spectacular.

Gems: “I Love It,” “Balenciaga,” “NSFW” & “Boing Boing”

Cheat Codes • Level 1 (EP) • Too Easy / 300 Entertainment • Release: 6.8.18

Photo Credits: Too Easy / 300 Entertainment