As one would possibly have the ability to inform by each his challenge identify and the title of his first single, “Fever Dream,” Ono Kimono brings an amazing quantity of cheek to his work. Began in 2021 by multi-instrumentalist Justin Roll, to this point this solo challenge is nearly as vibrant, colourful and retro as the duvet artwork for stated first single. With 80s-style synths, deal with on oscillators and a great deal of indie pop cachet, Ono Kimono is about to carry the following wave of rock/electro fusion.
Roll says Ono Kimono and particularly “Fever Dream” had been and reply to what he calls “pandemic burnout.” An apt evaluation to what all of us felt on the finish of 2021 (or 2020, if we’re trustworthy), and particularly whatartists handled.
The singles I’m releasing have been a fruits of what I’ve been feeling because the begin of the pandemic. Emotions of heartbreak, dependancy, and burnout have weighed closely on me and it’s been extremely therapeutic to place them into music. I’m hoping my message resonates with folks and takes them on a journey.
However, additionally like many artists, Roll wished to raise folks out of that burnout. And what higher method than with some throwback pop vibes, glorious synths and the suggestion that COVID is only a collective hallucination?
My final purpose is to supply for my listeners what my favourite music has given me over time, which is a way of belonging. If I’m able to encourage, to consolation, and to captivate my viewers then the journey might be 100% price it.”
Whereas “Fever Dream” is bubble gum enjoyable with a considerably critical message, Ono Kimono’s follow-up “Malibu.” launched simply final week, is barely extra indie musically however with a extra relaxed lyrical middle. Drawing on late 00s/early 10s acts like Chromeo, Cut Copy, Washed Out and even a touch of LCD Soundsystem, this observe is the place Roll actually places his personal spin on indie electro pop and exhibits his multi-instrumental talent. Classic funk, dream pop-y tone on the vox and a few expertly syncopated stay jazz drums make “Malibu” presumably even higher than “Fever Dream” from a musical standpoint and will definitely assist Ono Kimono stand out from the indie pop pack.
Artists being impressed by COVID and therapeutic themselves and the world at giant with their work is nearly a silver lining in all this mess. It actually makes all of it extra bearable. For Roll as Ono Kimono, it’s an fascinating technique to begin a brand new challenge nevertheless it’s clear he has each the musical chops and the contemplative nature to make us all really feel a bit higher and actually have a little bit of enjoyable alongside the way in which. Even when that is all only a collective “Fever Dream.”
“Fever Dream and “Malibu” are out now and might be streamed on Spotify or bought on Bandcamp.
