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Versatile multi-instrumentalist and composer Trip Dawkins has released his fifth internet album, “Incomplete Puzzle”, an ambitious 32-track project that defies conventional genre boundaries and showcases his lifelong dedication to musical innovation. At the heart of the album is a bold creative choice: an emphasis on the bass guitar as the primary compositional and melodic driver, inspired by Dawkins’ experience performing live with bass accompaniment.
Incomplete Puzzle is structured as three distinct listening experiences unified by Dawkins’ eclectic vision. The first six tracks form a cohesive bass-centric suite, drawing from disco, reggae, and rock rhythms while maintaining a focus on the instrument’s expressive versatility. These songs demonstrate Dawkins’ ability to reimagine the role of the bass, using it not merely as a rhythmic anchor but as a lead voice capable of carrying melody, emotion, and narrative.
The album opens with “EVERYDAY,” a disco-infused track sung from the perspective of a family dog, a playful yet insightful look into companionship and desire. “DON’T WANNA GO” follows with laid-back reggae rhythms and lyrics addressing the family cat, showcasing Dawkins’ shift toward becoming a self-proclaimed “cat person.” Here, he performs all instruments, including vibrant saxophone passages that enrich the track’s texture.
“WHAT AM I THINKING” delves into synth-rock territory, exploring internal dialogues during moments of distress. Dawkins avoids traditional strumming techniques, instead using the bass to fill musical spaces typically reserved for guitars or keyboards. “TO GIVE IT ALL AWAY” introduces indie-rock urgency with a full guitar solo and lyrics centered on community and generosity, while “BLUE CORN” builds gradually in what Dawkins describes as “Festival Rock,” designed to pull listeners deeper into its evolving soundscape.
The centerpiece of the first section is “SOLUTION BALNEAIRE,” a French-language rap song with a retro feel and introspective lyrics addressing mental health and self-improvement. The track is built on a foundation of impeccable instrumentation, providing a cool and calm backdrop that allows Dawkins’ delivery to shine. His lyrics aligns very well with the rhythm, resulting in a performance that is both emotionally resonant and rhythmically precise.
The remaining 26 tracks of Incomplete Puzzle comprise a diverse collection of material written for bands that never formed, unreleased songs, and Rock En Español recordings inspired by a collaborator’s deep appreciation for traditional Mexican music. This portion of the album reflects Dawkins’ prolific creativity and willingness to explore uncharted musical territory.
Dawkins’ musical journey began in the early 1980s with flute and saxophone, later expanding to jazz guitar, keys, and bass in the 1990s. More recently, he incorporated “mouth trumpet” into his performances to add a non-vocal solo element during bass-driven sets. This extensive background across instruments and genres informs the depth and variety heard throughout Incomplete Puzzle.
With its expansive tracklist and refusal to adhere to a single style, Incomplete Puzzle offers a long-form listening experience that remains engaging and dynamic throughout. It stands as a testament to Trip Dawkins’ artistic fearlessness and his commitment to creating music that is as inventive as it is heartfelt.
“Incomplete Puzzle” is available now on major streaming platforms: open.spotify.com/album/6y9w8YjN