Kurran Karbal - “Nowhere Else On Earth”
Merseyside-based songwriter Kurran Karbal has just delivered the beautiful kaleidoscopic indietronica track, “Nowhere Else On Earth.”
“Nowhere Else On Earth” is constructed upon rich, lush musical layers that have a feeling of being looped, yet hold a subtle complexity as they dance and intertwine. The track is deceptively well-crafted and composed. The synth layers used in the track have a slightly haunting ambiguity in their mood. The tones are bright, yet carry a faint, sour undercurrent, evoking feelings of mystery, awe, and longing. The sounds feel like they could have been lifted from a Boards of Canada track.
Two acoustic guitars, panned on either side, create a slightly dissonant rhythmic texture, offering a pleasingly playful, bright, and untidy feel. As they pulse, the track seems to sway steadily from side to side, mesmerising the listener. A synth bass line maintains a steady pulse throughout the track, grounding the shifting layers. Its ascending tail imbues a sense of elevation and anticipation for what may come next. Providing a tight groove is a repeating drum pattern, contributing to a trance-like effect that draws the listener further into the composition.
Kurran Karbal’s vocal performance is soulful, playful, and irresistibly captivating. The delivery has a vibe that simply and effortlessly resonates deeply within all who hear. Circling the vocals are tuned backing vocals, shifted into different keys and acting as another hypnotic musical element. This effect reminds me of the work of Grimes from her album, Visions. The lyrics are highly meditative and uplifting, yet they are tinged with a slight sense of beautiful melancholy.
“Nowhere Else On Earth” is taken from Kurran Karbal’s new solo album, Dumb and Dhamma, set for release this Autumn via the non-genre conforming label/collective XYZ123. Connect with Kurran Karbal: Apple Music | Spotify | YouTube | TikTok