The opening beat on Water immediately draws you in with its dark gritty nature. It’s a classic DJ bred aesthetic that recalls Trip Hops first Bristol based ascent. Ani After Death illuminates the edgy appeal with a sex fueled narrative, one that bypasses the complexities of romanticism and fully gives in to its primal instincts.
With devilish details she amplifies the dark desire of this moment. The blend is intoxicating. This could have been a Wu Tang beat, and also reflects the works of DJ Shadow. Her vocals could draw similarities to Portishead or underground Trip Hop ambassador Amelie Swann. For us it’s a sure thing for trip hop fans and an exciting debut from this new scene stand out.
Hear Water now on our Women of Trip Hop Playlist.
El Knight (they/them) pulled us into a dancing fit frenzy when the beat dropped on their new single Save Our Souls. Their entrancing vocal delivery adds elegant contrast and a dark moody appeal that resonates with Trip Hops glorious ascent. The vocal performance is silky smooth with some confident attitude in the melodic mid song shift.
A sultry saxophone adds to the hazy urban appeal, creating a cinematic texture to trigger your imaginative escape. Stylistically we hear an influence of Morcheeba and Thievery Corporation. El Knight updates their vibe with their own signature pro touch. We adore Save Our Souls.
El Knight are featured on our Women Of Trip Hop Playlist.
The search for a virtual collaborator on a Valentine’s Day song was the impetus that formed Mesmershade. Juniper Jow, a Hawaii-based lyricist, was determined to find a match. “So I did what any (slightly in-)sane person would, I scrolled through every user on the site, looking for someone with the same avatar.” That someone turned out to be Tokyo based songwriter M. Munigant. The Valentine’s song the duo wrote together, Vicissitude, is one of the six songs included on Mesmershade’s debut EP, Echoes of Elegy.
The duo have a shared affinity for dark edgy vibes within a catchy rhythmic construct. Shades of Trip Hop, dark pop, and darkwave all rise to the surface on this eclectic release. It’s a testament to Munigants rich production palette. Juniper Jow’s voice serves as the central detail to tie everything together. Stylistically they bridge the gap between John Carpenter, Portishead, and DJ Shadow. We find it delightful. The whole EP is expansive and impressive.
We don’t Have To Wait is featured on our Women of Trip Hop Playlist.
The Wild Is Calling 