a_shes – party politics (2022)
Referred to as passionate, inspiring, powerful and intriguing by notable blogs like Roadie Music, Malaysian a_shes is making a splash on the music scene. Already having hit our virtual pages earlier this year, the UK-based singer-songwriter captured our attention and left us longing for more – here we have it. Transforming the existential and sometimes euphoric experience of growing up into song, a_shes is the voice of young adults today. The latest addition to his discography is the single ‘party politics’.
The follow-up to his nostalgic, dream-pop debut ‘movies & music’, ‘party politics’ is a synth-pop track capturing the anxiety and euphoria of “partying as a young adult trying to find their place in a completely new world”. a_shes explains that the track “aims to emulate that religious experience you get on a wild night out along” – something to which many of us can relate. Yet, while there is a frenzy to the gleeful enthusiasm, a_shes shows a contemplative side as he explores the introspection accompanying the post-party debrief – another thing to which many of us can relate.
Filled with a kaleidoscopic haze, ‘party politics’ tips you into a sonic whirlwind. As with ‘movies & music’, a_shes has bright lights flitting around your head with the powerful synth-pop meets dream-pop sound. Driven by keyboards and a steady drumbeat, ‘party politics’ elegantly captures the bouncing club; however, the reflective insight is also expressed with the smooth vocals. It’s like watching one of those music videos where the person is lost on the dancefloor, but the sentimentality of the track is evident in the hazy neon light surrounding the protagonist.
Rich, bold and warm with a tinge of wistfulness, ‘party politics’ is far from the whimsical song one would imagine. It is this profoundness within a light-hearted melody that makes it such an enjoyable listen. I cannot wait for more from this talented artist.
For more from a_shes check out his Twitter, Instagram and Spotify.
