REVIEW: Fentse's 'Therapy Is Cancelled' Delves into Heartache and Healing, Crafting a Sonic Odyssey of Emotional Resilience

Therapy Is Cancelled, 2023

Genre: Alternative Soul/RnB

© 2023 FTL RADIO

Reviewed: 30 November 2023

In Therapy Is Cancelled, Fentse. unveils a mesmerizing sonic journey that captivates the soul from start to finish. Inspired by a comical incident wherein her therapy session was unexpectedly cancelled, Fentse. courageously embraces the power of going inward to confront her traumas head-on. Through heartfelt themes of heartbreak, romance, healing, vulnerability, and authenticity, Fentse. masterfully traverses the emotional depths with her smooth, soothing, and beautifully intricate vocals.

Throughout the entire album, Fentse's voice weaves a tapestry of raw emotion, infectiously conveying a plethora of overwhelming feelings. Genre-blending is executed with exquisite finesse, effortlessly blending elements of retro, psychedelic, and trance-like sounds. Drawing influence from notable artists such as Kali Uchis and Liv.e, Fentse. effortlessly infuses these music inspirations into the fabric of her sound.

Within the realm of R&B, neo-soul, and alternative genres, Fentse’s sound simultaneously energizes and calms the spirit. Her lyrics possess a profound depth, carrying heavy symbolism and metaphors that effortlessly transport listeners into an alternate universe she has carefully crafted. Each verse seamlessly flows into a blissfully melancholic reflection of love, trauma, and her personal journey.

The artist's initial offerings, including the captivating 'Video Girl,' delve into the intricacies of romantic relationships, exploring the sacrifices that accompany unwavering dedication. In the song's opening, she skillfully introduces profound lyricism, expressing sentiments like "My Venus in Leo, you're my Capricorn moon." Here, "Venus in Leo" signifies the positioning of Venus in Leo in the birth chart, reflecting qualities of love and beauty influenced by Leo's characteristics. Meanwhile, "Capricorn moon" indicates a reserved and disciplined emotional nature associated with Capricorn's traits. Notably, the song draws inspiration from the Japanese manga anime "Video Girl Ai," narrating the tale of a sentient video girl aiding a young man through heartbreak. The artist subtly conveys that she is not to be perceived as a mere 'video girl,' suggesting it's best for the pursuer to let her be.

After releasing her initial single, she surprised us with another glimpse into the album just three weeks later with 'Until Then.' The song has garnered attention on South African National radio, where Yfm praised Fentse.'s captivating voice intertwined seamlessly with the intricate beat, evoking a range of emotions. "Until Then" explores a multifaceted emotional journey, delving into themes such as revenge, communication, authenticity, and the struggles of navigating genuine emotions amid distractions and negative influences. The line, "I've been on a road to revenge," suggests a pursuit fueled by a desire for retribution or justice. The mention of regular communication and staying good implies a comforting connection during this pursuit.

The lines "I was on a search for something real, something I could feel" express a longing for authenticity amid a potentially vengeful path. The phrase "spreading through the town a disease" metaphorically describes negative influences encountered along the way. "Filling the darkness with distractions, bad romance" implies that these influences create a chaotic atmosphere, potentially hindering Fentse's quest for something genuine.

On the third track, "PURPLE SLUSHIES," leaves us impressed with the rising star's exceptional talent. She skillfully combines pop with her distinctive ethereal alternative vocals, creating a mesmerizing experience. The verses seamlessly transition, immersing us in nostalgic summer memories with friends, a lingering crush, and, of course, the allure of purple slushies. The pop beat is artfully contrasted by hip hop percussion, enhancing the overall captivating instrumental arrangement.

"CAFFEINE" explores experimental sounds, blending soulful grit, hip-hop edginess, and pop influences. The lyrics delve into internal conflict, questioning spirituality, and navigating ambiguous emotions using metaphorical language. The phrase "Dirty conversations caress my mind" suggests engagement in unconventional or morally ambiguous thoughts. "God is Schizophrenia" likely metaphorically conveys a complex and unpredictable nature of the divine or questions the clarity of spiritual beliefs. The line "What is he trying to say, filled with odd emotion" reflects confusion or uncertainty in experiencing messages or emotions, possibly in a spiritual or existential context. "How I decide to move is like a dirty serpent" could signify cunning or deceit in decision-making, drawing a parallel between actions and the slithering movements of a serpent.

The standout for me in the album is 'NINTENDO’ featuring Kyabo, which feels like it belongs in a video game. Notably, composers like Koji Kondo, Nobuo Uematsu, and Yoko Shimomura have played pivotal roles in shaping Nintendo's iconic game music. Fentse. could easily join that esteemed list with this track, as Kyabo perfectly complements the atmospheric chemistry. The blend of their sound, delivery, and creativity, along with the overall production quality, is truly impressive.

In the song "WHITE DOVES," a romantic atmosphere is depicted through vivid and symbolic imagery. The mention of "white doves soaring through the sky" symbolizes purity, peace, and love, while the phrase "as we engage in love" suggests a romantic encounter. The selection of white doves amplifies the imagery, indicating a serene and beautiful ambiance linked to the intimate act.

The song, "PULP FICTION" beautifully captures the theme of yearning for a lost love. The reference to the iconic film directed by Quentin Tarantino adds depth to the narrative, mirroring the movie's genre-blending style. The lyrics convey a profound sense of longing and melancholy, emphasizing how the absence of the ex affects everyday experiences for Fentse. and Sonder. The line "I watch pulp fiction without you" suggests a certain emptiness in activities enjoyed together. Mentioning the difference in Saturday nights without the person hints at a shift in emotional atmosphere, possibly feelings of loneliness. The abandoned orange juice metaphorically signifies settled changes since the departure, evoking a sense of heaviness or stillness. The addition of Sonder, the Africanime, complements Fentse, creating a captivating breakup anthem. Fentse's meticulous choice of features for the album showcases a harmonious blend, capturing the essence of their shared experiences.

This body of work serves as a testament to Fentse's creative prowess and solidifies her status as a musical force to be reckoned with. Her exceptional talents have held us in awe, providing listeners with a sonic experience that lingers long after the final notes fade. From start to finish, Therapy Is Cancelled stands as a transcendent masterpiece, seamlessly blending cohesiveness and storytelling that pushes the boundaries of the musical landscape.

With nine tracks and a runtime of 27 minutes, Fentse's album is a concise yet impactful exploration of healing, vulnerability, and authenticity. It is a must-listen for anyone seeking an emotional rollercoaster that inspires introspection and offers solace in a world that often lacks these qualities. Therapy Is Cancelled invites listeners to immerse themselves in Fentse's sonic refuge repeatedly, showcasing her artistry as an experience worth reliving time and time again.

CLICK HERE: 

 Stream Therapy Is Cancelled on Spotify

Fentse's Instagram Page

Tags: New Afro Fusion Releases|Upcoming African Musicians|African Music Discovery|Alternative African Music Reviews|African Music Blogs|Afro R&B Rising Talents|New Wave Afro Artist|African Soundscapes Exploration

REVIEW: VESPER by Roho: South African Pop Takes Flight in an Alternative Odyssey!

VESPER, 2023

Genre: Pop

©2023 VOODOOHOUSE (Ltd.)

Reviewed: 22 November 2023

Roho's highly anticipated return takes shape in "VESPER," like a carefully guarded secret whispered through time, the artist invites us into the heart of his creative cocoon, a space nurtured over three years after the resounding success of "Ephemeral ." This latest project promises a diverse palette of musical flavors, catering to the varied tastes of Roho's fan base. Brimming with daring vulnerability, "VESPER" offers a captivating experience shaped by intentional artistic decisions. However, as the album unfolds, the shadows of inconsistency and a potential lack of cohesion loom, raising questions about whether this venture might fall short of the excellence expected by avid Roho enthusiasts.

Roho's follow up project, VESPER is an entry into South African pop music that disappoints more than it captivates. Despite these shortcomings, there are moments on VESPER that shine. The production, while not groundbreaking, is polished and at times, sonically engaging. Roho's vocals are smooth and emotive, carrying the tracks with a certain charisma. Roho's generic songwriting struggles to establish a distinctive voice or innovate within the genre. Despite slightly surpassing average standards, Roho's production lacks uniformity, and the lyrics come across as superficial, falling short of establishing a resonant emotional or personal connection with the listeners.

In the album's opening track, "SAMAEL," Roho delves into profound symbolism by invoking the archangel of death. As a Scorpio, he intertwines his astrological identity with the thematic essence of death and rebirth associated with Scorpios. Through rhythmic chants of the name Samael in the chorus, Roho seems to beckon an internal transformation—a gradual ego dissolution. In his own words, he emphasizes the importance of initiating the project with a symbolic death, only to culminate in a later rebirth, constructing a thematic journey that mirrors the cycles of life and renewal.

In the fourth track, "POP SEX FASHION," Roho reflects on the stark contrast between Johannesburg (JHB) and his familiar home, Pretoria. With the lyric "I'm in the city to sell my soul," he communicates a profound intention to embrace vulnerability and reveal his authentic self amidst the urban landscape. The phrase takes on a metaphorical meaning, suggesting a willingness to open up and expose his true essence in a city that stands far removed from the comforts of his origins.

In "MICELLAR WATER," Roho infuses a sassy vibe, expressing resentment after being betrayed by a makeup artist. The title cleverly links to makeup removal, emphasizing the theme of shedding layers. Notably, the track stands out with a well-crafted guest verse by Tyson Sybateli, elevating it to the pinnacle of lyrical prowess on the album. Amidst the album's honesty and vulnerability, Roho refuses to sugarcoat the emotions stirred by various situations, presenting an unfiltered portrayal of his feelings.

In "GREENWAY RD," Roho collaborates with his close friend NKLY, creating a musical experience reminiscent of a casual hangout. The track exudes a fusion of funk and electro vibes, capturing the essence of a night out. It mirrors the feeling of engaging in lively conversation with a trusted friend during such gatherings. As the groove session unfolds, the song takes on a dynamic quality, and by the end, it's akin to the authentic moments that surface in candid post-event reflections, where one's most truthful self emerges.

In the final track, "REVIVAL," Roho uses the music as a metaphorical platform for the rebirth or refinement of self following the encounter with Samael in the opening track. "REVIVAL" symbolizes the essential role played by those who love and support you—they serve as grounding forces, reviving your spirit and restoring vitality. It encapsulates the idea that genuine connections with others have the power to bring about a profound renewal and restoration of life.

Despite offering a diverse range of musical experiences for Roho enthusiasts, the album falls short in terms of coherence and a compelling narrative. The themes explored, spanning passion, spiritual exploration, vices, and heartbreak, appear somewhat superficial, lacking the depth required to establish a profound connection with the audience.

With a concise duration of 30 minutes, VESPER attempts a daring and vulnerable exploration to push the boundaries of South African Pop. However, it leans excessively on trends rather than showcasing artistic originality. While there are glimpses of potential, these moments are regrettably eclipsed by the album's overall deficiency in depth and impact.

In conclusion, while VESPER might resonate with die hard Roho enthusiasts, it may not meet the expectations of those looking for a more profound and innovative pop music experience.

Stream VESPER by Roho.

View Roho's IG Page