The underground music scene has always been a haven for artists who push boundaries and defy mainstream conventions. One such act that has consistently stood out is Dual Diagnosis, a hardcore hip-hop duo from New Jersey comprising brothers MAD Mike and Paulie Walnutz. Since the early 2000s, these two have been carving out a unique niche in the underground world, drawing inspiration from the rap and rock invasion of the 90s. With their distinctive horror-core style and deeply personal lyricism, Dual Diagnosis tackles themes of loss, grief, pain, and trauma, resonating deeply with a dedicated following.
Their previous releases, including the EP “Emerge From The Dark” (2018) and albums “The Intake” (2020) and “No Ordinary Life” (2022), have established them as significant players in the underground music scene. Each project showcases their ability to blend aggressive beats with heartfelt lyrics, a signature that continues to attract a growing audience.
On June 13, 2024, Dual Diagnosis released their highly anticipated new EP, “Nature of the Beast.” This project marks a significant milestone for the duo, especially for Mad Mike, who took on the challenge of producing half the album himself. The other half was crafted by renowned producer The Arcitype, ensuring a diverse yet cohesive sound throughout the EP. Recorded at Bow Wow Studios in New Jersey and mixed and mastered by CJ Scioscia, the production quality of “Nature of the Beast” does justice to their raw and powerful sound.
“Nature of the Beast” features six tracks that delve into the complexities of the human psyche and the struggle with mental health. The lead single, “Patient On The Run,” produced by The Arcitype, has been gaining traction since its release on May 23, 2024, during Mental Health Awareness Month. This track, along with the EP’s title song, “Nature of the Beast,” explores the inner turmoil and the fight to overcome one’s demons. The music video for “Nature of the Beast,” released on May 17, 2024, has also received thousands of views on YouTube, showcasing Dual Diagnosis’s ability to combine visual storytelling with their intense musical style.
In addition to “Patient On The Run” and “Nature of the Beast,” the EP includes tracks like “Intro,” “Harsh,” and “The Edge,” all produced by Mad Mike. Each song is a testament to their journey, offering listeners a blend of hardcore rap and rock that is both cathartic and thought-provoking. “Murder One,” another standout track produced by The Arcitype, continues this theme of confronting inner fears and battling personal struggles.
Mad Mike explains, “Nature Of The Beast signifies talking to a doctor, a higher power, or myself about setting myself free from my own trials and tribulations. Demons that reside in the subconscious can hold power over our thoughts and feelings. However, we have the inner power to release these thoughts and feelings through intentional actions.”
This approach to music, combining deeply personal themes with aggressive beats, places Dual Diagnosis in a unique position within the underground scene. Their ability to address mental health issues through their art is reminiscent of other artists who use their platform to tackle difficult subjects. For instance, the late rapper XXXTentacion often addressed themes of depression and mental health in his music, resonating with fans who appreciated his raw and honest approach.
The EP honors those who are still suffering and those who are no longer with us, infusing their hardcore sound with messages of healing and hope. Dual Diagnosis continues to push the boundaries of the underground music scene, and “Nature of the Beast” is a powerful addition to their discography. As they continue to create music that resonates with their audience, this EP showcases their dedication to addressing mental health issues through their art.
Future Plans
Looking ahead, Dual Diagnosis has ambitious plans for their next album, which will be produced by C-Lance and Mad Mike. The concept revolves around inner demons and self-discovery, exploring the overarching idea of how light can grow in the dark, even in the darkest depths or shadows. The duo is also planning collaborations with other well-known artists in the horror-core genre, promising an exciting future for their fans.
Be sure to check out “Nature of the Beast” on all streaming platforms and experience the raw, unfiltered emotion that only Dual Diagnosis can deliver. For more updates, follow Dual Diagnosis on Instagram and YouTube:
For additional information, visit their website at Lostsoulproductionsllc.com or contact them via email at Lostsoulproductionsllc@gmail.com.
