• Two intriguing takes on both breakdowns
• Splendid vocal execution
• Experimental approach, much appreciated
Hyperpop in NCS!
I’m not surprised as this new trend fits the usual NCS sound, and there are plenty of talented artists to pick from. Today, we have Ghostnaps, a talented producer from Boston with some interesting releases in his arsenal. An album (“Better Places” in 2020), 3 EPs (“blossom“, “Ghostnaps” and “you“), bootlegs, and notable collaborations. His style is eclectic, difficult to categorize. Yet, I’ve noticed a shift towards more experimental sounds, as we will see in “grow apart” and many other releases. My favorite, before this NCS debut, was “knee deep” where the vocals shine through. Let’s say that Ghostnaps likes to play with vocal modulation!
“grow apart” is a very solid tune, and I particularly enjoyed it right from the start. Exotic influences pop out in the first seconds with the kind of vocal and the details in the background. Ghostnaps builds an intricate atmosphere with a focus on details and sound design. Then, he slaps on a hyperpop drop that doesn’t go too fast, but just chills out with the vocal chops. The melody is a bit simple for my taste, but there is a plethora of details around the main lead that kept me busy. For example, a whistle that appears for a couple of seconds. Or a chorus that adds elegance to the transition with the breakdown.
Speaking of which, this elegant section gives space to an even more complex final drop. By far, the real point of strength for “grow apart”! The sound design becomes even more interesting. There are some lofi hints here and there, rather than following standard hyperpop structures… And that’s a characteristic of the artist that I appreciate. Ghostnaps is doing something different and difficult to forget. It’s good that NCS noticed that.
“grow apart” is not your typical release, and I say it deserves a listen.