kidd noir's EP, "Year 19" embodies a sonic memoir of growth & grit
Emerging artist kidd noir’s Year 19 is a dazzling time capsule of emotion, self-discovery, and sonic exploration. Just dropped on October 25th, 2024, the EP encapsulates the whirlwind that is adolescence, zeroing in on the transformative 19th year of life. With lush production, outstanding guitar work, and a genre-bending approach, kidd noir delivers a project that’s deeply personal yet universally resonant.
From the opening moments, Year 19 sets a reflective tone. Each track unravels a chapter of kidd noir’s journey, translating raw emotions into immersive soundscapes. The guitar, her first musical love, takes center stage throughout, serving as both a narrative thread and a catalyst for the EP’s rich atmosphere. Whether it’s soulful strumming on quieter tracks or electrifying riffs that command attention, her instrumental mastery is evident and emotionally charged.
Kidd noir’s artistry thrives on contrasts. She skillfully weaves alternative R&B, pop, indie, and hip-hop influences into a cohesive yet dynamic collection. Tracks like "rev rhapsody" showcase moody, atmospheric production that feels cinematic, while songs like "takeoff" inject energy with beats that pulse like a heartbeat, all the while keeping things relatively calm. It’s a diverse listen with something for everyone, yet it never loses sight of its emotional core.
Her storytelling is equally compelling. The lyrics are introspective and relatable, touching on confusion, heartbreak, and eventual acceptance. Lines like “I thought I knew myself until I didn’t” hit like a gut punch, while other uplifting tracks feel like a hard-won celebration of growth. Across these moments, kidd noir’s vocals are striking—raw, emotive, and effortlessly cool.
Listening to Year 19 on quality headphones elevates the experience. The intricate production details shine, from subtle reverb to layered harmonies that seem to float in the mix. There’s an intimacy to the EP, as if kidd noir is inviting you into her world, urging you to sit with your feelings and find solace in the music.
Drawing inspiration from artists like Dijon, Dominic Fike, and Frank Ocean, kidd noir channels their influence without losing her unique voice. Her ability to blend introspection with groove is remarkable, and her narrative feels like a rallying cry for anyone navigating the chaos of young adulthood.
With Year 19, kidd noir doesn’t just revisit her formative years—she reclaims them, turning confusion and doubt into art that inspires. It’s a cohesive, vibe-filled triumph that cements her status as a rising star. If this EP is any indication, her future in music is as boundless as her talent.
For us, it was one of those records that flowed exceptionally smoothly, crafting this lovely little world throughout its near 15 minute runtime. Go ahead and click those links below to listen, follow along, and of course to stay tuned for more in the new year.
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