Jordan Rakei has become one of the most consistent performers in the current realm of soulful, beat-driven music. The New Zealand-born singer-songwriter and producer has announced the release of his third album Origin on June 14 via Ninja Tune. The LP announcement arrives in conjunction with the release of the project’s second single entitled “Say Something.” Like the LP’s previous single “Mind’s Eye,” the new track explores dystopian visions of our future, a theme that provides the crux of the album. As usual, Rakei couches these heady topics with his signature funky aesthetic and warm vocals.
While “Mind’s Eye” focused on the potential realities of a haunting technology-driven future, “Say Something” acts more like a call to action to speak out against ethically questionable technological advances. Even with shows like Black Mirror and The Handmaid’s Tale providing cautionary tales about the perpetuation of certain unsavory societal dynamics in a distant future, Rakei’s perspective feels urgent and necessary, particularly in the music world. With a riff-based production featuring head-nodding instrumentals and buttery vocals, Rakei makes his provocative themes easy on the ears as well.
Pre-order Origin here.
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