Music
Tundra Music Collective Release New Music
Whether delivered via a gritty melodic hue in “Danger,” a distant swing in “Modified” or through a surprisingly rock-inspired mix ala “Suspension of Disbelief,” Tundra Music Collective is all about powerful and driven harmonies in Rawk On. Between the instruments and the vocals, there’s incendiary chemistry that produces some surprisingly sterling foundations for almost every exciting moment this album has to offer, but I wouldn’t say that the disc is an homage to a similarly conventional hip-hop model we saw explode out of the American scene to the south just a decade ago. This is a band that blends together a lot of eclectic influences, but despite their scattered origin, the music they create is anything but unfocused.
Beyond the interplay between the melodic instrumental parts and the vocals, there are plenty of intriguing beats to behold on Rawk On. Take the slick title track or mildly harmony-focused “Kanpe” for prime examples; though both of these tracks are steeped in enormous grooves that aren’t dependent on a drum element in theory, they wouldn’t be nearly as engaging were they not riddled with the potent percussive elements they’re each afforded here. Tundra Music Collective aren’t communicating through singular channels in this LP; for all intents and purposes, they’re utilizing the studio – and their instrumental output – as much as possible in this capacity.
This record has a great flow that allows for otherwise conflicting compositions like “Modified” and “Safe” to sit together in the tracklist rather seamlessly. Rawk On often feels less like an introduction than it does an album that’s been tightly packed with identity affirmations – even at its most simplistic, like the aforementioned “Safe,” it’s got a full-bodied feel that isn’t frequently found in this type of hip-hop release. There are a lot of ways to broach a six-song package, but from where I sit, Tundra Music Collective gives fans more bang for our buck than the average indie outfit does in 2023.
It would be really interesting to hear some heavier material from this band in the future, mostly because the metallic components of these songs suggest a fiery side worth exploring. Aesthetically speaking, I think it would be safe to say that Tundra Music Collective has a lot of rock, soul, hip-hop, jazz, afrobeat, and worldbeat in their daily diet, but they’re not posting up throwbacks in this offering.
They’re still coming into their own, and with the work they lay down here, I can’t wait to hear what they can do with more firepower and room to breathe in the studio.
There’s still a lot of heavy lifting to be done, but the potential that Tundra Music Collective is boasting in Rawk On is unmistakable even to the most novice of critics. 2022 was an interesting year for indie music, but if you’re looking for something consistent and fireworks-laden in 2023, this is one record you won’t want to miss out on. Quality beats quantity every time, and that’s especially true in an album like this one.
Sebastian Cole
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Louise Goffin Takes Us for an Intimate Ride with “Backseat”
Louise Goffin’s new single, “Backseat,” takes listeners on a nostalgic journey, like a late-night drive filled with deep emotions. The Brooklyn-born singer-songwriter offers a heartfelt song that feels personal yet relatable to everyone. Drawing inspiration from the storytelling style of Laurel Canyon, “Backseat” invites you to dive into its rich, soulful sounds and escape the daily hustle and bustle.
Goffin’s talent shines through in her ability to tell a story reflecting her life experiences. Growing up with famous songwriters, she experienced a world full of creativity and ups and downs, which she beautifully expresses in her music. “Backseat” captures the mix of chaos and tranquility, creating a calming yet powerful musical experience. Her gentle voice flows over various instruments, making it feel like a cozy chat with a close friend.
At its heart, “Backseat” touches on balancing being a passenger in life and taking charge, something everyone can relate to when feeling uncertain about the past and future. Goffin’s gift for sharing her thoughts makes this journey feel shared, showcasing her storytelling talent.
Louise Goffin is truly coming into her own as an artist, turning the intricacies of life into songs that resonate with many. Whether you’re already a fan or just discovering her music, “Backseat” is a song you don’t want to miss—a beautiful celebration of growth, resilience, and the magic of music.
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Rich Kidz’s “Settle Down” Hits a Sweet Spot with Heartfelt Realness
Regarding merging authenticity with infectious beats, Rich Kidz pairs up like no other, and their latest single, “Settle Down,” dives into the depths of love and relationships. At the same time, ensuring listeners remain locked in with melodic flows unique to the duo.
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The song offers a luxuriant sound from the very first bars, combining smooth harmonies with a midtempo gait that feels like the auditory half of a cleanse. It’s reflective but also a lift, a duality that aligns with the message of accepting the highs and lows in any partnership. The duo’s storytelling shimmers as the verses progress, mixing personal details with a wider, relatable narrative.
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The way Rich Kidz pairs its introspection with infectious energy makes “Settle Down” extraordinary in today’s music landscape. This is one of those songs that has to be added to everyone’s playlist and shows how much they have grown as a band. With this release, they’re not merely making music — they’re composing a soundtrack to life’s most pivotal moments.
