ProStudioMasters.com

Billy Lemos has an ear for what works. The 24-year-old Iowa-born, LA-based producer pieces together songs instinctively, understanding genres not for what they are but what he thinks they could be. Elements of alternative guitar pop are pushed through R&B and hip-hop gears; the byproduct is a loose, textural wildstyle that prioritizes unpredictable melodies and hooks. The shapeshifting personality of his music comes from relentless, well-curated collaboration. Lemos’ 2020 breakthrough debut, Wonder — which certified him as “one of the Midwest's brightest rising beatmakers, per The Fader — invited a dozen guests across its potent tracklist, with parts done remotely. To manifest new material, Lemos embraced in-person sessions in Los Angeles, letting the tone, structure, and vocal performances unfold from scratch with the spontaneity and hands-on dynamics of a shared creative space. His favorite moments from two years of recording make up Control Freak, a seven-track EP presenting the next level for Billy Lemos, realized with the help of a wide-ranging cast: annonXL, Bickleboy, binki, Dua Saleh, Harve, KALI, MTMBO, Nana Lourdes, Sam Austins, and spill tab. A collection of anti-pop songs, refined and streamlined yet gritty and tactile, as detailed as the seven distinct key designs on its artwork. By pairing his savvy curatorial and sonic impulses with his trust in the voices and visions of others, Lemos opens a door to exciting possibilities and adventurous cohesion. “In a way, the title is ironic, as this is the most selfless record I’ve made. We made decisions together about where mixes should sit and how songs should be structured.” - Billy Lemos