Browsing Tag

Computer Adjacent

Hyper-pop originator, KAWAII HOE, delivered hyper-surreal alchemy with their debut single, Kaleidoscope Love

Posted on 23 April 2024

KAWAII HOE’s debut single “Kaleidoscope Love” synthesises the future of hyperpop with layers of 8-bit nostalgia in a boundary-pushing production. With a backdrop that cuts across familiar trends, KAWAII HOE charted a course to untouched alt-pop territory; the sticky-sweet anthem uses a throbbing backbeat and heavy basslines to create a compelling contrast with the crystal clear, autotuned vocals that endlessly ascend into otherworldly euphony.

The single doesn’t merely add to the cacophony of generic love songs; KAWAII HOE transforms the quest for love into the epicentre of their narrative, presenting it with a purity and serenity that belies the intense musical undercurrents.

KAWAII HOE weaves together influences from icons like 100 gecs, Charli XCX, and Dorian Electra, creating a quirky and unapologetically experimental tapestry, stitched by hyper-surreal alchemy. We can’t wait to hear the next installation of ingenuity after this exceptionally promising debut.

Kaleidoscope Love was officially released on March 23rd; stream the release on all major platforms via this link.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Lie awake in YDV’s hypnotic dream pop vignette of affection, OBSESSED

Posted on 10 April 2024

YDV’s latest single, “OBSESSED,” transcends trends, offering listeners a glimpse into a utopic future for RnB. By seamlessly blending dream pop, 8-bit aesthetics, and the soul of RnB, YDV crafted a hazy vignette that immerses listeners in the intoxicating allure of obsession.

With lyrics that resonate universally and melodies that stir the soul, “OBSESSED” is an otherworldly experience that showcases YDV’s mastery of using soundscapes as a canvas for vulnerable expression. As the beats pop and groove, the vocal lines swirl and vortex into the mesmerising melodies, leaving listeners with an elixir they’ll crave pouring endlessly.

“OBSESSED” serves as the first chapter of YDV’s ambitious project, “DON’T LET THIS END,” a highly personal exploration of love, toxicity, trust, self-love, projection, and self-discovery. The accompanying music video delves into the complexities of relationships, revealing the truths often veiled behind the illusion of love.

YDV, a Bay Area artist now based in New York City, defies traditional genre boundaries, blending elements of Hip-Hop, Pop, Rap, and EDM to create a cinematic journey for his audience. Through his music and visuals, he invites listeners to explore the duality of existence and discover their own truths within his artistry.

With “OBSESSED,” YDV invites listeners to fall into the hypnotic embrace of his sound, where the lines between reality and fantasy blur, and the journey of self-discovery unfolds. As the first taste of “DON’T LET THIS END,” this single promises an exhilarating odyssey that fans of RnB won’t want to miss.

The official music video for OBSESSED is now available to stream on YouTube.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

The Silent North is oscillating through ‘Parallels’ in his latest ambient instrumental score.

Posted on 12 December 2023

As a sublime continuation from his 2023 EP, Inflections, The Silent North, the musical persona of Scottish solo artist Paul Russell, has broken his proverbial vow of silence to unveil the ambient twilight in his latest instrumental piece, Parallels, an auditory experience that melds tranquillity with intoxicating allure.

Parallels is a testament to Russell’s eclectic mix of influences, artfully blending electronic, ambient, and guitar elements into a cohesive and mesmerising cocktail. The track’s foundation is built upon subtle yet compelling trip-hop rhythms, with all the intricate beats and moody atmospherics within the tonally expansive soundscape which uses reverb to complement the progressions with an ethereal quality.

Far from detracting from the organic feel of the music, the digital touch enhances it, creating a harmonious balance, resulting in a sound that delivers swathes of cross-over appeal. With the planned release of Illuminate in February 2024, The Silent North continues to build a compelling discography that showcases his unique musical vision.

Parallels hit the airwaves on December 1st; stream it on Spotify.

Review by Amelia Vandergast