22 Dec 2024
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Dillastrate - Single Review: I'm Crazy

22 May 2023 // A review by Cathy Elizabeth
Dillastrate, the powerhouse duo from down Christchurch ways, have released another fantastic single that is sure to get you moving and grooving. I’m Crazy dropped at the start of May Music Month and is already making waves and amassing plays, demonstrating that it's been well-received by their fans.


The smooth vocals of Henare 'H' Kaa drop to new buttery lows in the first verse, with Tim Driver’s synth sounds bringing the funk with his nostalgic tones and bass line modulations.

The first verse builds nicely before dropping into a spacious pre-chorus with some nice backing vocals echoing through. I like the vocal effects used on the BVs, as well as what sounds like a bit of distortion and EQ modulation on the keys, which gives the whole track a real funky and retro feel.

The chorus doubles up the energy and lifts the song into bop mode. Catchiness intensifies! I’m definitely getting Bruno Mars vibes from this track and it feels really fun and uplifting. The bassline is really dope and you can’t help but boogie along. Interestingly though, I never hear the lyrics “I’m Crazy” used in the song, making it one of those anomalously titled tracks sent to confuse us!

I'm Crazy was recorded at FiveAM Music and Parachute Studios, with the final mix being completed by producer Nic Manders, fulfilling a bit of a bucket-list dream for the Dillastrate boys. The result has been well worth it, and another bow in the quiver for the dynamic duo with the high-energy stage performance.

Made with the support of NZOA’s New Music Development Funding, I’m Crazy is all about finding peace with people and things that may never change. “Ultimately, it's a positive song that emphasises acceptance of the struggle,” says Dillastrate. “It’s also a story that will be familiar to anybody who works in the music industry, so the narrative of this song resonates with us on a personal and professional level.”

A great message and a great track; both well-produced and brimming with talent.

Dillastrate are affectionately known as the 5-piece duo; with Kaa on drums and vocals and Driver on keys/bass, synth/loops, and vocals. Add to that the ability to write songs that showcase all of the things they are good at, and to connect with fans, and you have a winning combination for sure.

Rating: ( 4 / 5 )
 

About Dillastrate

Dillastrate just can’t sit still. Driven by a deep love for live performance, in two short years the New Zealand duo has completed a staggering nine national tours, tackling staple music festival stages including Northern Bass, Rhythm & Vines and Electric Avenue. A live performance by the duo ensures that no foot is left untapping, with entire venues transitioning from stationary to dancing-their-arses-off in a matter of one song.

Dillastrate describe their signature sound as neosoul pop – a product of intense refinement and humanizing machines, combining modern digital sounds with analogue soul to provide the best of both worlds. A heavy hat tip to funk legends Stevie Wonder and Michael Jackson mingles with current soul, hip-hop, jazz and electronic sounds that seems to leave audiences open-mouthed and itching for more.

Members Henare 'H' Kaa (drums, lead vocals) and Tim Driver (keyboards, loops, vocals) realized the potential for Dillastrate while playing together in multiple groups, including kiwi staples AHoriBuzz and Soulsystem. With the ability to perform using all the necessary instruments with just the two of them, Dillastrate are agile and determined to play for appreciative audiences wherever and whenever possible. As working session musicians, the pair have worked with an intimidating host of national and international acts, including members of The Rolling Stones and a host of New Zealand’s top talent.

Visit the muzic.net.nz Profile for Dillastrate

Releases

Nga Pounamu
Year: 2024
Type: Album
Narrative
Year: 2021
Type: EP

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