Mandala - Modern Struggle
“Modern Struggle” is the first single off of the upcoming EP, Chronicles of a Blind Man, from rapper/songwriter, Mandala. A native of Joliet, Illinois, Mandala’s lyrics are hopeful and concentrate on religious themes. “Modern Struggle” showcases this as he raps about the battle of good versus evil and how technology and social media are a source of sin and lust. He compares the Apple iPhone to the same apple from the Garden of Eden. The familiar iPhone text tone “ding” even makes it into the chorus when he raps:
Like we’re back inside the garden, got the apple in my hand
Everything I ever wanted, if I bite it I am banned
Throughout “Modern Struggle” there’s a sound similar to a harp that seems to represent the good side while the consistent bass represents the evil. The two are the musical representation of the battle between good and evil on the track.
Mandala lists Eminem as one of his musical influences and you can definitely hear the resemblance as he appears to be an indie version of the popular rapper from Detroit. Lots of rappers in the industry have a style that’s hard to distinguish the words, so as you listen along, you tend to make up words that you think you hear. When listening to Mandala rap, he clearly articulates the lyrics of “Modern Struggle” so not only can you rap along with him after listening to the track on repeat (which you most likely will), but the message is distinctly executed, as well.
“Modern Struggle” is a strong release single off of Mandala’s upcoming EP, Chronicles of a Blind Man, which is out on November 13th, 2020. If you’re a fan of rappers like Eminem and NF, you should definitely check out Mandala on social media and listen to his music on Spotify.
