Poptoken – That Day (2024)
In a world of uncertainty, cynicism and in some cases blind ignorance, merely existing is a complexity of both existential and metaphysical form. Intricate, confusing and challenging, but also exciting, inspiring and hopeful, life in its totality is entirely non-descript; however, it can be viewed through different perspectives. Tackling the stereotypical assumptions of pop culture – then playing them off against each other – singer-songwriter Poptoken encourages listeners to enjoy the uncertainty of life filling each day with passion and purpose. The brainchild of US-based Ilya Lagodnyuk, Poptoken establishes himself as a unique, obscure and captivating force in the pop scene.
Following his well-received 2023 single ‘Back Home’, Poptoken stomps into 2024 with his new track ‘That Day’. Shifting from the pulsating electronic pop tones of ‘Back Home’, ‘That Day’ is a soothing flood of silvery sound. Dipping into various pop styles, slivers of indie-pop whisper through the alternative pop tune presenting as a soft ballad… then Poptoken brings his distinctive flavour of unpredictability. While the opening movement of ‘That Day’ is wistful, warm and mellifluous, a pulsating hit of electronic beats emerges as the track quickens its pace. In fact, by the end, you find yourself in a roaring crash of kaleidoscopic beats pushing at a million miles per hour.
Self-recorded and produced, ‘That Day’ has the mature sophistication of a polished production but hails on the raw vulnerability of youthful innocence. As with a rollercoaster, clicking up to the top is simple and charming then everything goes insane like the bends and flips of that rollercoaster. Interestingly, it is this arrangement that heightens the emotional gravity of the single’s message. Poptoken explains:
“I wanted to create a song that reflects the unpredictability of life and the importance of living in the moment. ‘That Day’ is about recognising that every day has the potential to be significant, whether it’s our last day or the start of something new. It’s a call to action to embrace life’s highs and lows with the same enthusiasm.”
Find out more about Poptoken on his Instagram and Spotify.
This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator
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