I selected NINE.i’s Vahn as my second favourite Okay-pop producer of 2023. Not solely was he liable for his group’s glorious mini album, however he additionally had a hand in Golden Little one’s Really feel Me. That second track looks like a roadmap to the similarly-titled Feeling — the title monitor for his first EP. In a yr with none new NINE.i music, that is an surprising deal with.
Vahn isn’t solely a pointy songwriter. His distinctive vocal tone is immediately recognizable, melding equal elements gruff and easy for a compelling distinction. He fits rock music effectively, although his work additionally carries a powerful pop edge. Feeling is a superb mix of guitar and synth, tethered to a driving beat that feels immediately cathartic. It’s very a lot in step with his earlier materials, however reasonably than a retread this marks a extra private dive into what’s rapidly changing into a signature sound.
Rapper BLKZEN provides a competing tone to the combination, although I’m undecided a visitor was wanted on this specific track. Vahn carries issues simply high quality on his personal, injecting a lot character into the efficiency. This helps twist Feeling‘s extra generic leanings, elevating the expertise and making certain the monitor’s longevity. I hope listeners give this an opportunity as a result of I can simply see Vahn creating a brilliant strong solo profession.
| Hooks | 9 |
| Manufacturing | 8 |
| Longevity | 9 |
| Bias | 9 |
| RATING | 8.75 |
Grade: B+