While some artists are desperate to squeeze themselves into a pigeonhole, Red Rowanne creates through unadulterated freedom, impassioned expression and a desire to connect and resonate with kindred spirits. In her latest single, Termination, the DIY artist lets synths speak to the marginalised through a voice of pure authenticity; it is as though she let her inner child take control of the synth pads.
The result is a whimsical soundscape that practically demands you shed inhibition and lean into the playful textures built by the hazy nostalgic arrangement, which leaves enough space in the atmosphere for her harmonic vocals to drape lush soul over the production. Beneath the softness, Termination carries a pointed social nerve, shaped by the fallout of wrongful dismissal and the kind of workplace cruelty that can leave people financially, emotionally and spiritually winded.
Red Rowanne, a trans DIY indie artist using she/they pronouns, writes with clear sympathy for LGBTQ+ listeners, people of colour, disabled and neurodivergent people, and anyone who has had their dignity treated as disposable.
Fans of Caroline Polachek, Imogen Heap, Grimes and Arca should hear the pull in the glowing synth pads, analogue warmth and ethereal multi-octave vocals as Termination turns trauma-aware alt-pop into something tenderly and defiantly hopeful.
Termination is now available on all major streaming platforms, including YouTube.
Review by Amelia Vandergast
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