Arjuna Oakes - Single Review: Satellites w/ Serebii
Satellites launches with a bump and instantly draws you into
its gravitational pull by way of smooth lo-fi synth tones and spacey beat. Percussion
floats in, further enticing us into its dreamy orbit, while deep fuzzy bass
and envelope-filtered guitar play in parallel, setting up melody lines which become
the anchor of the song. The down-pitch glide of the retro-sounding keys is sometimes
interrupted, and other times continuous.
I like how all of the instrumentation plays together in unison with the vocals on those melodies, even the brass section when it comes in. It’s an effective technique that gives the song a certain stilted simplicity, while at the same time elevating its sophistication. And it is cleverly employed at various times, and in different ways, throughout the song.
Satellites is the second single from the upcoming First Nights EP, for which the talented 22-year-old singer/songwriter and producer Arjuna Oakes has teamed up with beatmaker Serebii (Callum Mower) to create. The duo has been picked up by LA-based independent label Innovative Leisure, which is sure to continue the upward trajectory of their respective careers. And deservedly so.
Oakes’ smooth vocals are peppered with just the right amount of vocal fry in just the right places, and remain seductively soul throughout. The breakdown momentarily dismantles, and then resembles, the track, rather than just being a lull in the instrumentation or beat. The ending is a quirky off-kilter run and jump at the finish, which catches you off guard and is very cool.
You’d be forgiven for thinking this track was performed and produced by folks far beyond these young artist’s years. It is well-crafted and has a mature musicality to it. Hats off to Oakes and Serebii, who obviously share a similar aesthetic and together make a fantastic team.
I’m looking forward to hearing the full First Nights EP due out on 27th August 2021 as I thoroughly enjoyed reviewing this single. Great job!
About Arjuna Oakes
Visit the muzic.net.nz Profile for Arjuna Oakes
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