In a world dominated by singles and curated genre gatekeeping, INSCT and Roxy Tones have eschewed these norms for a sprawling new release. Across 19 tracks, the two producers deliver a beautiful collection of emotionally driven productions.
From here, the two producers continue the theme of water and relaxation as the energy opens up on the track Tranquil Waters. Unafraid to wear their hearts on their sleeves, the collection continues to explore themes of emotion and love over powerful layers of pads and percussion. While showing incredible technical powers, the pair are comfortable navigating several styles throughout the project, navigating melodic deep house and even elements of lounge music throughout.
The willingness of INSCT and Roxy Tones to explore different sounds and styles allows the project to flow naturally, while keeping listeners’ attention throughout. With a talented stable of vocalists and collaborators, Higher On Live evokes different moods and feels familiar and fresh all at once. All I need to know with Imran leans into a melodic pop energy, adjacent to the sound and style The Weeknd has perfected throughout his storied career. The energy carries directly into the next track, Sinking Deeper, as Scarlett Jackson returns to the fold and the energy continues to surge forward.
Never getting stale, the pair really expand their sound on Velvet Hangover, a smooth and sexy production. It’s almost impossible to listen without picturing the packed nightclub, the sequin-covered dress sparkling from the stage, and the horns cutting through the chatter after the chorus. Like any night out, the moment must pass, and the music continues to shape the emotions and journey that are to follow. As the hypothetical night races towards early morning hours, the music becomes more personal again. The search for meaning, for connection, for partners is felt in the musical movements and lyrics that follow.
By the time listeners reach Oh Oh and Spinnin’, the album’s melodic energy returns. The lyrics become more reflective, a dissection of one’s actions versus the search for action has begun. It’s a full emotional ride, the music expands, offering larger pastures to explore, space to drift into while the lyrics stay pointed and direct. The final trio of tracks pulls the story together and provides some of the most exciting moments of the album. Starting with Fly Away, the melodic techno beat drives the energy, offering a pulsing listen.
Next up, Cloud 9 gets fans snapping and clapping, offering an acoustic-tinged stompfest, complete with a powerful vocal that wouldn’t feel out of place on a Mumford & Sons or Avicii production. This is a track for community, the singalong, the percussion, it all filters through before the closing anthem, Above and Beyond. With tones of trance and house blending, INSCT and Roxy Tones deliver a near-perfect album closer. Dripping with emotion, a hauntingly beautiful piano melody runs throughout before building up to the final sing-along, massive synths, and the final moments of Higher On Live.
Check out the full album below.
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