AZUKI - PEACE OUT [69%]
Exploring Artistic Horizons: Unveiling Azuki's Vision in "Peace Out"
In the ever-evolving world of music and visuals, emerging artists often face the challenge of creating a unique identity while staying true to their artistic vision. Azuki, a 20-year-old artist hailing from Northampton and now making waves in London, has managed to do just that with his latest release, "Peace Out”. This track, which finds its place as Track 8 on the 'Fly Forever' tape, serves as a testament to Azuki's musical prowess and his ability to weave detailed narratives through his music.
Visual Brilliance and Narrative Depth:
Directed by the talented Bower, the music video for "Peace Out" opens a window into a surreal world. It begins with fragmented, trippy visuals set against the backdrop of a park, featuring warped colours that immediately draw the viewer into a dreamscape. The video, shot by Parallel Media with additional creative input from artist Recky Packs, integrates a variety of shot types, capturing the essence of Azuki's music with precision. What sets this visual masterpiece apart is its focus on natural environments, diverging from the overdone urban settings prevalent in contemporary music videos. From the park to a grow house within an apartment, the scenes blend effortlessly, reflecting Azuki's multifaceted persona. An intriguing detail within the narrative is the inclusion of a price tag on an alcohol bottle, subtly breaking the fourth wall and inviting viewers to reflect on societal norms and consumerism.
AZUKI INTERVIEW WITH DUB 5 TV, OCTOBER 2023
Sonic Excellence and Emotional Resonance:
"Peace Out" boasts a musical foundation laid by the accomplished Roddy Beatz & Jony Beats. The track features floaty, layered melodies akin to slow raindrops, providing an ethereal backdrop for Azuki's heartfelt lyrics. The modern, crisp trap drums, coupled with triplet rhythmic hi-hats, infuse vitality into the composition. While the musical arrangement adheres to basic dynamics, it is Azuki's vocal performance that steals the show. His emotive delivery enhances the lyrical narrative, creating a profound impact on the listener.
Lyrical Depth and Emotional Contrast:
Azuki's lyrics in "Peace Out" are a blend of conceited bravado and profound introspection. He delves deep into personal experiences, expressing emotions ranging from pain to the responsibilities of being the man of the house after his father left. The internal contrast within Azuki's character is vividly portrayed, providing listeners with a glimpse into his multifaceted personality. The track touches on various themes, including self-reliance, family dynamics, the allure of success, and the melancholy of missing someone dearly. Azuki's tonal shifts, especially in lines like "drink in my cup, I’m so faded" and "yeah I miss my bro, I ain’t seen him in ages," emphasise his emotional depth.
Vocal Performance:
Azuki’s vocal performance in "Peace Out" is stellar, surpassing the lyrical content. The first half of the song stands out as lyrically robust, showcasing Azuki's ability to weave intricate narratives. However, the overall lyrical narrative structuring could benefit from further refinement to elevate the track to its full potential.
The Director's Perspective: Nurturing Creative Synergy
Bower, the director behind the visually striking "Peace Out" music video, expressed to DUB 5 that his approach involved bringing together a team of experienced professionals, each contributing their unique skills to the project. Bower's assembling of such a talented crew and providing clear direction was instrumental in shaping the video's aesthetic. He emphasised the importance of maintaining a cohesive vision, ensuring that every scene resonated with Azuki's artistic sensibilities. Additionally, Bower's attention to detail extended to the post-production phase, where he worked closely with Harland Films, focusing on the prominence of visual effects to enhance the overall impact.
Collaborative Brilliance: The Role of Recky Packs and Jonah from Parallel Media
Within the creative tapestry of "Peace Out”, the contributions of Recky Packs and Jonah from Parallel Media played pivotal roles. Recky Packs, serving as the 1st AC, was instrumental in assisting with both indoor and outdoor scenes, particularly those involving the female model. His understanding of the video's end goal and his ability to enhance Azuki's confidence in specific scenarios added depth to the visual narrative. Jonah from Parallel Media, responsible for transition shots and final edits, showcased an innovative approach and a fresh perspective. Bower emphasised that both contributions significantly aided the video's unique style and seamless transitions.
Maintaining Quality: A Journey Across Locations
Remarkably the team behind “Peace Out” were able to maintain consistent quality despite working across diverse locations. Bower's meticulous approach involved physically travelling to different places, spanning Bristol, North London and Brighton, to make this happen. This hands-on method ensured that the project's integrity remained intact and every aspect of the video adhered to the envisioned aesthetic.
The track, coupled with its visually stunning music video, offers listeners a transcendent experience, providing an intricate insight into Azuki's world. Azuki's ability to seamlessly compliment music with visuals showcases a level of artistic maturity that bodes well for his future endeavours.
As he continues to push artistic boundaries, listeners can anticipate more compelling creations from this talented artist. "Peace Out" is not merely a track; it is a profound artistic statement, encouraging listeners to emerge with a newfound appreciation for his craft.
DUB 5 Review Score: 69%
Note: The review score reflects the track's overall impact, production quality, lyrical content and authenticity within the context of the genre.
