When approaching ‘Stars’, one must be ready to deal with MOLTENO’s cathartic energy. Layering spacious and evocative vocals against a backdrop of icy and ethereal electronica, the British talent guides us into her own artistic universe, an introspective refuge of her own making, a place packed with pathos and character. The listening experience is intense, yet light on the heart – as if MOLTENO was conducting us through the deepest corners of our consciousness, yet we wouldn’t feel a thing. A glorious record.
Sonically, we are in trip-hop territories. ‘Stars’ employs sampled jazz-flavoured beats, dramatic organ tones and a bassline that screams ‘Massive Attack’ on every note. In fact, the single finds its perfect place at the intersection between Portishead and Massive Attack, as it is so clearly laid out through the synth-powered noisy percussions and the luscious strings-like soundscapes.
A fantastic effort from MOLTENO, who looks set for a stunning year: an EP is in the works, ‘Element 2’, part of a larger conceptual series aimed at highlighting the connection between humans and nature.
‘Stars’ wouldn’t be the same without the London-based artist’s impressive vocals. Almost bucolic, they create a stark contrast with the more complex sonic matter supporting them. A sort of musical ‘chiaroscuro’, giving the track an irresistible edge. Delving into the lyrical inspiration behind the song, MOLTENO explains: “Stars’ invites us to look up and remember we’re a tiny dot on a spinning rock. I started writing the song in my teens, inspired to explore the contrasting ways life’s challenges can be perceived. Can we learn to trust the next step on the tightrope?”
Recommended! Discover ‘Stars’ on Spotify:
