WFNM Roundup #6 – Yoke Lore, Talk Time, NEKOKAT, Big Data, The Solarists
“Cut and Run” is a great new track from Yoke Lore full of brooding intensity and intriguing production. Yoke Lore’s distinctive vocals immediately draw you in as a dark bass, ambient vocals, and organic percussion carry the song with a constant motion. The pre-chorus is stacked with harmonies that feel like a plaintive call, cascading into a chorus that feels like an anthem. Once again Yoke Lore has created a perfect atmosphere that transports you to the world he’s building as his melodies and hooks stick with you long after the song ends.
“Year of Self” is the debut single from the LA-based band, Talk Time. I love the vibe of this song; it’s subdued and disquieting, with production elements that feel wonderfully retro. The vocals are powerful in the chorus with an incredibly haunting melody. The production elements combine with the synthetic elements seamlessly to create a distinctive sound. I’m looking forward to hearing what comes next for this new LA band.
NEKOKAT has released their new EP, “Pleasure Beach”, featuring the song “My Brain”. This song immediately draws you in with its rhythmic guitar and sparkling synths, keeping you hooked as the verse comes. NEKOKAT’s vocals are unique, understated, and controlled in a really cool way, staying calm in the verses before going all-out in the choruses. It’s a non-stop vibe full of energy and a song that would be a perfect addition to any good driving playlist.
Big Data’s new song “See Through” immediately starts with some of the most interesting sound design I’ve heard in a minute. Panning percussive elements and a gritty groove support haunting vocals that are absolutely enticing. It’s a dark vibe, but the vocals keep you hooked as the production builds around it (at one point even stuttering the vocals in the chorus in an awesome way). This song is brave and unwavering in its experimentation and while it may take repeated listens to truly appreciate some of their choices, this is the kind of song that rewards close listening. It’s an excellent groove with skillful production and ethereal vocals.
“CRYPTK” by The Solarists is a feel-good song that transported me to the early 2000’s in a welcomed way. This song has a solid rhythm and groove while remaining unwaveringly understated. There are catchy vocal melodies, errant sax trills, and guitar lines that glide over everything, all coming together to make for a light-hearted nostalgic experience. It’s a fun new track from The Solarists and a solid groove for the summer.