Moontwin – Monster (2021)
The sonic representation of virtual collaboration, Moontwin is a duo that creates and release music without having met in person. Nowadays, the use of virtual technology is more prominent than ever and the pair make use of it. Old friends with a common background, Melanie Garside and Zac Kuzmanov melded their musical talents remotely to form a boundary-breaking sound. The latest addition to their well-received discography is the single ‘Monster’.
Releasing music on Spotify from 2018, Moontwin has been turning heads for several years now. Featured in notable publications like American Pancake, Velvety, Come Here Floyd, Analogue Trash and BBC Introducing, the duo are an international sensation. Earlier this year, Moontwin released the spine-chilling, soul-stirring single ‘For Your Happiness’ (read our review here) reminding us of Nick Cave; however, the latest track ‘Monster’ adopts a hazier, more ethereal vibe.
Now, don’t get me wrong, the siren-like vocals of Garside (also known as Maple Bee) do send a shiver along your tingling skin, but there appears to be a more dreamlike, synth-pop design to ‘Monster’. When discussing the track, vocalist Garside explained that “we find ourselves getting lost among obstacles imagined or otherwise…” It is this dip into existential truths that makes Moontwin both intriguing and mind-blowing.
Interweaving Garside’s unique vocals with the robust strumming of Kuzmanov’s guitars and synths, ‘Monster’ has a kaleidoscopic and haunting soundscape. It is as if you are thrown into a pool of glittering water and enjoy wave after wave of sound….um, waves. Yet, while there is constant lapping of sounds, the lingering otherworldliness adds an intense intimacy that is difficult to describe. ‘Monster’ is a “feel” song instead of a “describe” song.
In addition to their single, Moontwin released an official music video for ‘Monster’. I was unable to view the video as it uses strobe effects and rapid pattern transition that can cause seizures in people with photosensitive epilepsy. The video is available below but please watch it at your own discretion.
WATCH AT OWN RISK
For more from Moontwin check out their Facebook, Instagram and Spotify.
