Image: Xin Li
Norwegian artist, producer and Sløtface bass guitarist Lokoy has teamed up with Nils Bech on relay, which is set to feature on the musicians forthcoming solo debut album badminton.
A dazzling polyrhythmic pop cut, incorporating African-inspired percussion and sampled Icelandic church choirs, relay was written and recorded alongside Mikhael Paskalev (I Spy) and Bech. Lyrically, the track addresses the complicated emotions and insecurities surrounding self-confidence.
Of the release, Lokoy shares: "The lyrics place me in the centre of a huge stadium surrounded by spectators. It’s just before I’m going to run a relay race and I’m regretting signing up for it. I wanted that imagery to mirror the insecurity I sometimes feel for my own appearance and the constant comparison/competition I have towards myself and others around me. I have a specific idea on how I’d like to be seen, but often that idea falls through with the reality. The line 'I’m always running from the replay' – for example, refers to how uncomfortable it is to hear one's own voice, or watch oneself on film. This often breaks with my own image of how I’m sounding and acting. I believe this feeling is quite common, and something many people experience. I want to appear as good as the others in the room, and when I can’t, it feels like a loss."
badminton is set to be a dizzying, no-holds-barred exploration of pop set to Lokoy's futuristic, charming production. Across the 15 tracks. the musician brings to the table a host of exciting new Norwegian talent, including Safario, Moyka and Emilie Østebø, who featured on previous single a mistake. Beginning his solo career back in 2018 with his Can We All Go to Bed EP, he was swiftly praised for his unique production flair and sonic ambition.
relay is out now!Llisten to the song below.