In the world of hip hop, where innovation often meets familiarity, Charlotte-based Akanimo’s “Relaxation Electric,” emerges with an artful nod to A Tribe Called Quest. The track, part of his 2021 EP DISTORTION, beckons listeners into an immersive environment that balances kinetic energy and a meditative undertone. From the opening moments, a shimmering glow of synths unfurls, creating a sonic landscape that feels both expansive and intimate.
The arrangement is meticulously layered, with pulsing rhythms that ebb and flow, reminiscent of the introspective yet energetic vibes found in the works of artists like Caribou or Four Tet. Yet, there’s an unmistakable individuality to Akanimo’s approach that sets him apart, harnessing influences while carving out a distinct identity.
Akanimo’s soundscape draws upon a variety of textures, intertwining bright arpeggios and enveloping basslines in a way that provides sense of buoyancy. The production is clean, allowing each element to breathe, enhancing the track’s atmospheric quality. Moments of tension and release are masterfully executed, leading to a chorus that feels almost euphoric, as if inviting the listener to ascend into a state of blissful transcendence.
Lyrically, the track flirts with themes of escapism and introspection. Phrases like “let the waves wash over me” encapsulate a longing for serenity in a chaotic world, resonating deeply with contemporary listeners navigating their own challenges. This emotional core is a reminder of how music often serves as a refuge, a theme that reverberates through much of today’s electronic landscape.
In a world saturated with sounds vying for attention, Akanimo’s track stands out as a fresh perspective on electronic music, merging rhythmic vitality with an introspective ethos.
As listeners seek solace in the noise, “Relaxation Electric” offers a timely reminder of the power of music to both energize and soothe, making it a noteworthy addition to the electronic canon.
Listen to Relaxation Electric by Akanimo
