Yxngxr1's 'where has everyone gone.': A Captivating Journey into Nostalgia and Envelope-Pushing Sounds"
Yxngxr1, the DIY artist known for his streak of acclaimed singles, has again captured our attention with his latest EP, 'where has everyone gone.' Released on May 26th, the EP showcases Yxngxr1's envelope-pushing talents and explores the theme of growing up. With a range of tones that span from sweet nostalgia to dark and brooding hip-hop, Yxngxr1 delivers a captivating musical journey that leaves a lasting impression.
The EP opens with "Something Else," a dreamy lo-fi track that sets the scene for what's to come. It's currently making waves on popular playlists such as Spotify's 'Bedroom Pop', NMF UK, and Our Generation. The song's ethereal ambience draws listeners in, preparing them for the sonic journey ahead.
As we venture further into the EP, we encounter "Downtown LA," where Yxngxr1's signature blend of chorus-rich guitars, singalong hooks, and poignant lyrics tugs at our heartstrings. The juxtaposition of upbeat melodies and dark undertones creates a captivating listening experience that resonates long after the song ends.
The single "my mum told me about u" envelops us in a warm blanket of nostalgia. Supported by notable platforms like NME, DMY, and various Apple Music playlists, this track showcases Yxngxr1's ability to evoke the sepia-toned imagery of youth. With sunny, lo-fi guitars and warm melodic bass, it's a nostalgic trip down memory lane that reminds us of the beauty of reminiscing.
The EP turns darker with "Nikeys," pairing a more muscular and moody groove with another infectious chorus. Yxngxr1's ability to create catchy hooks that stick with the listener is fully displayed here. And just when we think we've reached the end, the EP concludes with the trap-infused beats and deep bass of "I've Been Sick," leaving us on a heavy note that lingers in our minds.
Yxngxr1 describes 'where has everyone gone.' as a departure from his previous works, focusing more on the sonic elements rather than the lyrics and flow. The songs within the EP are beautiful yet different, showcasing his willingness to explore new territories and experiment with his sound. The title itself reflects the introspective nature of the EP, addressing the realization that as we grow up, friendships evolve, and people move on.
One standout track is the focus single, "All her traits," which features Brooklyn-based artist Tim Atlas. Yxngxr1 describes it as a versatile track that can be enjoyed in various settings, whether dancing, chilling, or sitting alone. Packed with earworm melodies and sweet chord progressions, the instrumental shines brightly, enhancing the overall musical experience.
Yxngxr1's rise to success within the internet generation is evident, with over 300 million streams across different platforms and support from renowned radio stations like BBC Radio 1, Radio 2, and 6 Music. His unique blend of lo-fi indie-rap has garnered praise from respected publications such as Dork, The Line of Best Fit, TMRW, and The Guardian.
Hailing from Cardiff, UK, Yxngxr1 first caught attention with his DIY record 'Tyler' in 2019 while working at Foot Locker. Since then, he has amassed a dedicated following with hit singles like 'Rather Do,' 'RockStore,' '721,' and 'Pigeons.' Continually challenging himself in the studio, Yxngxr1 pushes the boundaries between hip-hop and indie, never settling for complacency.
In conclusion, 'where has everyone gone.' perfectly encapsulates Yxngxr1's unique range as an artist. The EP effortlessly combines sweetly nostalgic lo-fi elements with hard-hitting hip-hop beats, showcasing his ability to craft captivating music that resonates with listeners. It serves as a testament to Yxngxr1's talent and a promising glimpse into the exciting future ahead for this rising artist.