The Internet

The Internet formed in Los Angeles around 2011, with Syd Tha Kyd, Matt Martians, Steve Lacy, Patrick Paige II, and Christopher Smith coming together through a shared interest in music. They started putting out records that mixed R&B with jazz and hip-hop textures, avoiding the slicker production common in mainstream soul at the time. Their early work, like the 2011 album 'Purple Naked Ladies,' had a loose, home-studio feel that set them apart.

By 2015, they released 'Ego Death,' which included tracks like 'Special Affair' and 'Girl' featuring Kaytranada. That record sharpened their sound, warm, layered grooves with Syd's conversational vocals up front, and connected with listeners who were tired of over-polished R&B. They followed it with 'Hive Mind' in 2018 and 'Feel Good' in 2019, keeping the core lineup intact and working mostly within their own production circle.

Syd Tha Kyd handles much of the singing and writing, with lyrics that touch on relationships and identity without turning confessional. Steve Lacy's guitar work brings in funk and indie touches, while Patrick Paige II's bass lines anchor the grooves. They've never really fit a commercial mold, which has sometimes drawn criticism about their reach, but it's also what gives songs like 'Come Over' or 'Get Away' their offhand, lived-in quality.