nik. – clarity (2024)
Known for enthusiastic melodies, moving performances and curly hair, Australia-based singer-songwriter nik. uses music as solace, catharsis, and an inspirational expression of life in its totality. Milestones – they’re important things you must cross to be considered a successful individual. I am not speaking of the milestones like learning to walk and whatnot, but those that we face as adults; the expectation of being somewhere by a particular age. Ever considered why 30 is such a big deal? In the real world, it’s not so simple and many people flounder at these expectations. nik. delves into the world of “you should be” in her debut single ‘clarity’.
A melodic embodiment of the “blue pill or red pill” moment of The Matrix, ‘clarity’ is the moment one shifts from reality as we know it and reality as it is – which to choose? nik. explains:
“When I began writing ‘clarity’, I was six months away from turning 30 and completely overwhelmed. Not by the number, but more this expectation I had in my head of what my life should be like by the time… In one sense, I wanted to ignorantly stay ‘safe’ trapped in this constructed idea of life because it was comfortable, but I knew the only way through was to face reality, unpack my feelings and actually discover what I truly wanted, as opposed to what I should want…”
The lyricism is a profound expression of the existential crisis of self-identity; however, the melody enhances the significance of choosing the blue or red pill. Recorded with producer and musician Chelsea Warner, ‘clarity’ is a synth-filled haze of bold beats twirling about one with kaleidoscopic fuzziness. Elegantly capturing the wistful flood of thoughts, ‘clarity’ is a smooth, gentle tune; however, the silkiness of nik.’s delicate vocals bring a haunting vulnerability and comforting understanding of the concept.
In addition to the single, nik. released a lyric video for ‘clarity’. You can view the video below or on her YouTube channel. Please note that this video uses lighting effects that can trigger seizures in people with photosensitive epilepsy. Viewer discretion is advised.
VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED
Find out more about nik. on her official website, Facebook, Instagram and Spotify.
This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator
Discover more dream-pop tunes on The Other Side Reviews Dream Pop playlist:
