On December 22, 2024, the world of music was reshaped by the release of World Over, the debut EP by Intercontinen7al. This five-track masterpiece is not just an album—it’s a cultural phenomenon that redefines the boundaries of music and collaboration. Featuring musical contributions from all seven continents, including Antarctica, World Over is a groundbreaking achievement that celebrates unity, creativity, and the power of global connection.
The origins of Intercontinen7al are as fascinating as the music itself. Born during the COVID-19 lockdowns, the project started with members of the Columbia, MD-based band Toast exploring virtual collaboration through BandLab. What began as a creative outlet during uncertain times soon evolved into an ambitious endeavor to connect musicians worldwide. Bandleader Matt Smith envisioned a global collective where artists from every continent would unite to create something unprecedented.
The result? A musical tapestry woven by 21 artists from diverse cultural and musical backgrounds. Intercontinen7al’s lineup features contributions from North and South America, Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, and even Antarctica, with scientists-turned-musicians Aymar de Lichervelde and Stijn Thoolen representing the frozen continent.
The recording process for World Over is as innovative as its concept. Using BandLab, a digital audio workstation (DAW) with collaborative features, musicians recorded their parts from home studios and rented spaces. The production process transcended geographical barriers, with Matthew Smith in the U.S. and Marcin Nawrocki in Poland leading the mixing and production efforts. The use of Focusrite interfaces, Cakewalk, and Ableton further streamlined the virtual collaboration, ensuring the seamless integration of diverse musical elements.
Each track on the EP embodies the spirit of global collaboration, but “Night Shift” stands out as a crowning achievement. The song opens with a haunting guitar intro recorded in Antarctica, seamlessly transitioning into a blend of acoustic, folk, and alternative rock. This piece encapsulates the innovative and boundary-pushing essence of the entire album.
Intercontinen7al’s music is a melting pot of genres and influences, paying homage to icons like Pearl Jam, Prince, Tool, Porcupine Tree, and The Beatles. From progressive rock to bossa nova, Latin, acoustic, and hard rock, the EP showcases a remarkable range of styles. This diversity reflects the band’s expansive musical psyche and their commitment to leaving no stone unturned in their creative journey.
Tracks like “Manor Hill,” which features instrumentation from all seven continents, demonstrate the band’s ability to merge progressive rock complexity with a deeply humanistic message. Meanwhile, the Latin-inspired “No Somos De Este Lugar” highlights the seamless integration of languages and styles, with Gustavo Prida’s Spanish vocals adding depth and authenticity.
What makes World Over truly groundbreaking is its unparalleled scope. It’s the first album in history to feature compositions with instrumentation from every continent, setting a new standard for global collaboration in music. This ambitious project is a testament to the power of technology and creativity to bridge geographical divides and create something extraordinary.
Critics and fans alike have lauded the EP for its innovation and emotional resonance. As The Big Takeover aptly noted, Intercontinen7al may be the first band to truly embody the term “world music” in its broadest, most meaningful sense.
World Over is more than an EP—it’s a movement that exemplifies the limitless potential of human connection. By leveraging technology and embracing diverse cultural influences, Intercontinen7al has crafted an album that transcends borders and unites listeners through the universal language of music.
As Matt Smith reflected, “What if we take the Sonic Highways concept that Foo Fighters had of recording music with artists from several cities in the United States, and totally expand it to move forward?” This vision has not only come to life but has set a new benchmark for what’s possible in the music industry.
Intercontinen7al’s World Over is a landmark achievement that will resonate with music lovers for years to come. Its innovative recording process, diverse influences, and global collaboration make it a testament to the unifying power of music. In a time when the world often feels divided, World Over serves as a reminder that creativity and connection know no boundaries.
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