We’re focusing on magnificent productions this week, starting from the hugely anticipated new Crystal Castles track to a critically acclaimed cloud-rap hit by Clams Casino.
Crystal Castles – Char
Long-awaited has been the release of new material from these guys. The last time they put something out was in 2013 when they dropped their third studio album, (III), which also happened to be the final album that featured Alice Glass as a singer-songwriter. When they announced they would be touring with a new vocalist, Edith Frances, fans were skeptical of whether they’d continue to be the Crystal Castles that they had come to know and love. I think that this release has absolved their apprehensions. The track contains the core essence of a Crystal Castles track, dream-like distorted sonics that take the listener to euphoria, but strays away from the darker, more synth heavy feel that was prevalent in their last album. Is it turning up friendly? I wouldn’t say so, but it is definitely worth a listen when you’re alone in your apartment and you just want to get naked and dance.
Local Natives – Fountain Of Youth
This is one of those songs that pulls you in and embraces you with its warm instrumentals, but truly strike an emotional chord with its infiltrating words. Upon first listen, you’d pin this to be a The Kooks-esque indie song, perfect for summer kickbacks but it is so much more than that. This is a song that represents our entire generation – one that subtly addresses the power we have to make a change in these desolate times. If we don’t change, then who will change?
Weval – You’re Mine
Every so often you stumble upon a production that is profoundly tweaked to perfection, however seldom do you also find that that very same recording is a mere introduction to a very promising artist’s debut piece. The track – albeit lengthy – shines from beginning to end, treating the listener to a slow-burning instrumental that steadily builds up to several chill-inducing climaxes. The potential of a song is revealed when we’re enticed to listen to it without breaking focus, taking in every snare, every drum, every sample, until it comes to a close. That’s exactly what this song does; the fact that it’s nearly 6 minutes long makes it all the more impressive.
Clams Casino – A Breath Away
The title of this song is fitting as it truly takes your breath away. The combination of Clam Casino‘s ethereal, drum-heavy instrumental and Kelela‘s soothing, yet powerful vocals makes for a track fit for the radio without straying away from what set him apart from popular modern hip-hop producers in the first place. While it’s definitely not a song you’d play to lift your mood, it is one that you can play when you’re looking for a little inspiration.
Check in next week to read about more new and note-worthy tracks that are worth a listen!