A Universal Language: Maddy's Story

article originally published in phsicsmag's A Universal Language issue available for download here

Following their successful debut EP in 2011, Sound Fx grew to become one of hip hop’s hidden treasures. The duo would go on to release 2 EPs and 3 mixtapes. It was in 2013 that Sound Fx would bid farewell to their fans through the release of Empathy, a powerful and thought provoking body of work. Upon initial contact with the guys, I managed to get through to Sound Fx member Maddy McFly. Our first exchange was short and thorough. He was excited about my invite to be part of the AUL feature story. Maddy would later confirm with me that Empathy was it; Sound Fx would be no more.

Empathy taps into the soul of its listener. Apart from igniting passion, this album is also able to almost imprison you, causing feelings to fluctuate throughout its flow. Accompanying its solemn storyline is a musical album with melodic cords, imaginative basslines, samples which were appropriately selected and impeccably chopped, and an almost ‘sequential harmony’. Empathy speaks the universal language; whether it’s the universal language of love, pain, or frustration. To put a full stop on Sound Fx is perhaps premature at this stage. I’m waiting for the day these two will be back in studio working together again. Maddy McFly is more than an art-piece figure on the wall of music. His passionate discourse in the AUL documentary film reflects on his hunger and drive.

phsicsmag (p): Based on your understanding,what would you say constitutes to the idea of “a universal language”?

Maddy McFly (MM): I believe a universal language is a language that transcends the barriers of race, culture, politics, and religion.It is a language that is understood by all regardless of background. A universal language is felt and not spoken, it is relatable by pure emotion because that is the greatest and deepest level of connection we can have with one another as humans.

p: Do you feel music is still the “universal language” it once was, or are artists better off creating musical niches for themselves? 

MM: I do believe music is and will always be a universal language because rhythm is felt and not spoken. With the growth of technology we see more and more people turning to music as a form of communication so i do believe music is still a universal outlet. We don’t all speak the same languages but we all feel the same emotions and good music is emotional. It connects us all whether we are aware of it or not.

For more on the AUL Story:

A Universal Language Film can be watched here
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