‘Hot Boys’ offers introspection and perspective and is a track from Bristol-based Oswald Slain that is lyrically astounding.
Perhaps the best thing about the current, admittedly turbulent, state of the music industry is the ability for artists to release new music in-time. Gone are the days of strenuous and strategic planning being a necessity; we’re in a situation where artists have a platform to share their work as and when they choose. That’s an opportunity that Bristol-based band Oswald Slain are taking full advantage of, as after releasing two projects last year they are back with a stellar new single ‘Hot Boys’. The coolest part? It was only recorded last month…
Speaking on that, frontman Charlie Fitzgerald said “It’s kinda mad. I didn’t even think that was possible – There are no rules”. The guitar-given track draws in the essence of a variety of soundscapes, with the band being credited for their ability to breathe life into the Americana genre. With this single, they’ve continued that streak – it’s inherently Americana but with an indie element that gives it that neo-psychedlic edge. It’s the type of track that even upon the first listen, you know you’re going to have the lyrics down and on a loop in your head in no-time. The track offers the perfect amount of energy; enough to guide you along and keep you hooked without being too overbearing. Every time I listen, it makes me wonder how musicians are able to create fresh pieces of music that are so unique in their nature yet so fitting to so many existing soundtracks – it belongs to a collective yet is so unique in its structure.
Lyrically, the track explores the ever-familiar cycle of making peace with the ongoings of life and the endless pursuit of happiness that leads us to be in an endless yearn to be the best. “I wake up at 6am – And run a fucking marathon – Then write in my journal about all the things that you are doing wrong”. The striking self-introspective lyricism hits deep and completely resonates – it gets you thinking about what it means to be a ‘Hot Boy‘ and why exactly that is the societal end-goal. Fitzgerald offers his deepest insecurities up on a dish that is so goddamn good that you just can’t help but surrender your own; hearing an artist discuss “what it feels like to be perfect” offers the opportunity for you to leave your like-minded worries there, in the track.
It’s the type of track that reminds you we’re all in this together, here on this floating rock, trying to do our best and just hoping something good comes out of it. The real beauty is in experience, in grafting not to be ahead, but for a sense of pride. “I don’t do it for the recognition, money or the hearts and clicks. I do it cos I love myself I love every single bit”. An ability to inspire introspection of this calibre is truly a divine talent, and one we’re looking forward to hearing be explored in releases down the line.
Listen to ‘Hot Boys‘ here:
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