Nico & Vinz debut infectious new album
It’s pretty difficult to turn on the radio and not hear Nico & Vinz’s hit “Am I Wrong.” It rocketed to the top of the charts over the summer with its powerful melody, rhythmic beat, unique sound and, of course, an uplifting message of pursuing dreams without apology. The duo’s first album as Nico & Vinz, Black Star Elephant, drops Sept. 16 and will solidify their reputation for being catchy and sending positive messages, while also adding depth to their already unique pop sound. Simply put, be prepared for more Nico & Vinz stuck in everyone’s head.
Those who attended the Welcome Back Concert will recognize several songs and will be happy to learn the rest of the album follows the distinct Nico & Vinz sound, emphasized in the tribal-pop trend set by “Am I Wrong,” “In Your Arms” and “Last Time.”
The album contains 21 tracks, seven of which are interludes showcasing the duo’s African roots and their thematic content. These short tracks feature little music but rather highlight words of wisdom, such as these lyrics from “New in Town”: “There will be obstacles on your road, but the challenge will be your teacher.”
The African influence is not, however, exclusive to these interludes. Many songs have short snippets of foreign languages, such as the bridge of “People,” which is spoken in French, and “Imaa Imaa,” which means “Striving, Striving” in Yoruba. Each song embraces their heritage in varying ways, from distinct drumbeats to chanting elements to tribal-sounding instruments. The whole album blends this influence with refreshing acoustics and the upbeat pop sound we know and love from “Am I Wrong.” “Last Time,” “Another Day” and “Runnin’” are sure to be hits for the specific sound the duo manages to create: infectious vocals and acoustics with a dance-worthy rhythm. The new elements add a dash of the exotic that only benefit the album, adding depth to the pair’s overall sound.
Oftentimes, the songs begin with stripped acoustics, featuring one instrument paired with bass or a beat. As the songs develop toward the chorus, the minimalist sound grows to a climactic influx of instruments. This rise-and-fall pattern continues throughout the song, heightening the addictiveness of each chorus and emphasizing the lyrics of each verse.
Nico & Vinz’s messages mostly center on their personal struggles and the intense desire to follow their dreams as the world works against them, much like the messages conveyed in “Am I Wrong.” The determination that characterizes their first hit is reflected in “When the Day Comes,” which declares in its first verse, “Why can’t I sleep when it’s two in the night? / ‘Cause the fire in my soul / The fire in my soul got me ready to fight / And I’m ready for war.” The song also has a lively beat despite the combative lyrics the artists are singing. “Another Day” expresses gratitude to God for each day, mentioning the social injustice around the world in short segments of rap but remaining positive with a delightful contrast between piano and almost electronic elements. “Homeless” has a cheery melody and a memorable rhythm, and voices their struggles to find a place called home as Afro-Norwegian young men. A similar theme of self-discovery and identity is expressed in “Know What I’m Not,” which is an anthem of personal reflection that further deepens their tribal-pop sound.
Some tracks focus on more romantic interests, but are equally catchy and uplifting. “Runnin’” and “Last Time” in particular are reminiscent of Chris Brown, and will have listeners dancing in their seats before the first play on the radio is over. “Runnin’” is just plain musical fun. “Last Time” is flirtatious but more pleasing to the ear (“I’m drowning in your sea / And I don’t want no one to save me”). The duo’s second single, “In Your Arms,” is already a hit in Norway, Denmark and Sweden, likely for its hopeful and hopeful message, which pairs perfectly with the happy acoustic guitar and catchy beat. It declares, “Life is a journey where you stumble and fall / But I’m okay / When I lie down in your arms.”
Black Star Elephant is universally happy, something every pop/acoustic/tribal music fan is bound to enjoy. For fans of other genres, one listen of the album — even if they don’t love every song — will have them moving to the beat. As a debut album, Nico & Vinz found the mark and surpassed it: fans of their first hit will spread their love to the whole album, and new fans will soon emerge. The music world should prepare for more Nico & Vinz. And if that means more genuine artistry in the music industry, who could object to that?