niceymost - Horoscopes
Hip Hop, Rap
Florida, U.S.
Overall Impression: With "Horoscopes," niceymost crafts an effortlessly cool, low-key track that pulses with the kind of vibe that doesn’t need to shout for attention to be felt. Niceymost’s approach to his vocals is engaging yet effortless, layering a low-key energy that rides the beat with natural ease. His voice doesn’t demand attention but rather invites it—seemingly lounging through the verses, letting the groove take the lead while infusing the lyrics with an unhurried style that makes each bar feel like a conversational moment. The arrangement complements this relaxed vibe, with the production serving as an essential bedrock to the track’s ease. Warm, lo-fi Fender Rhodes textures create an atmospheric quality, their soft, neo-soul-inspired progressions filling out the background and lending the track a sense of depth and nostalgia. These warm tones are gently accompanied by airy synth pads that elevate the ambiance without ever overwhelming the listener. The deep, resonant bass provides a solid foundation, its presence felt but never too overpowering—simultaneously grounding the track and giving it the kind of subtle groove that you can’t help but nod along to. Overall, "Horoscopes" is an understated yet thoroughly engaging track, with niceymost’s unique blend of smooth, confident vocal delivery and introspective lyricism leading the charge.
Strongest Point(s): The production is particularly strong and manages to effectively sway between nostalgic warmth and modern cool. The Fender Rhodes textures bring an inviting, lo-fi charm, their warm tones opening the track and helping set a relaxed, almost dreamlike mood. These Rhodes chords are paired with ambient synth pads that subtly fill the space, their soft swell creating an ethereal atmosphere that’s both soothing and immersive. It’s like the track is wrapped in a hazy fog, allowing the listener to sink deeper into the vibe without feeling overwhelmed. Beneath, a deep resonant bass provides a grounding presence, its pulses providing weight and movement without overpowering the overall ambiance. And then, the groove-heavy percussive elements help push the track gently forward, providing a steady momentum that encourages you to nod along, slow and steady, as the track builds its subtle energy. A particularly charming touch is the old-school vinyl scratches, which act as nostalgic punctuation marks throughout the song. These scratches don’t merely serve as a reference to the past but inject a tactile, analog texture that contrasts beautifully with the warm digital elements of the beat, offering a bit of roughness in an otherwise smooth track. The combination of these elements—lo-fi warmth, groove-driven beats, and vinyl crackle—gives "Horoscopes" a sense of timelessness. It’s as if it’s simultaneously present and familiar, new yet comfortable, cool but welcoming.
Target Audience Appeal: "Horoscopes" is an engaging low-key-styled piece of modern hip-hop and I can see it strongly resonating with fans of the genre.
Artist target suggestions: J. Cole, Kendrick Lamar, Wale, Blxst, 21 Savage, Logic, Mick Jenkins, Cozz, IDK, 2Pac, Kanye West, Pusha T
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About the Reviewer:
Andre Avanessian is a freelance session guitarist, composer, and sound engineer based in the U.K. Having studied music production and composition at a degree level, he has taken his passion for all things audio-related to a level that has allowed him to become both a competent musician and performer. Being a self-confessed "Guitar Nerd" Andre has been continually studying the guitar as well as teaching it, helping students learn the instrument, develop their songwriting, and become proficient in home recording.