Whether writing poetry to be sung in folk tunes, putting together distorted riffs for a death metal band, or simply trying to craft hooky pop music, all young artists are looking for something, and many of them don’t even know what. They’re looking for some sort of illumination, for a moment where all the pieces of life ring out in tune, for that brief second where everything makes sense.
Labit is one of those seekers, and by the sounds of it, the pop singer-songwriter has already done much of the hard work, finding the much sought-after epiphany. The only trouble is putting something as grandiose, yet fleeting, into a short jingle, into something that can deliver the message to those who have not yet experienced their own breakthrough.
In its own calm, unassuming way, Labit’s new album “SOL” attempts to distil tectonic spiritual forces into modern-sounding, warmly produced songs that can connect with young listeners.
For proof, look no further than the opening track, “STAY AWHILE,” where the trip-hop beat and processed vocals of the verse lead all the way to a satisfying chorus that falls like rain over a sandy desert, and ties everything together.
And there are plenty more moments like this throughout the 18-song collection. “PRETTY” is a sweet-and-sour tune about the struggles and redemptive power of young love.
Meanwhile, on “WHO WE ARE,” Labit uses a sturdy, rocking bass line and aggressive percussive tones that lead seamlessly toward a chorus that feels designed with the purpose of becoming a viral social sensation.
But, in many ways, that’s where the album’s strengths lie. Like the 1975 or Conan Gray this is a kind of pop music that feels like it’s managed to escape time completely. Its influences might well be 80s British synth pop and 90s American bubblegum, but there’s no way of telling for sure. All of these sounds are carefully processed together and serve as the springboard for Labit’s songs of woe and hope.
Listeners will be able to make up their mind about the record quickly. However, the collection will best reward the true faithful. The 18 songs, for the most part, retain the same sonic parameters and deliver smooth hooks and lyrics where hope is found out of hardships.
But where does this all leave us? The title track, “SOL,” is a slow ballad-type song that uses acoustic guitars, a tricky chord progression and excellently executed tenor vocals. That’d be impressive in itself, but this sophisticated exercise is designed to, one final time, remind the listener that there’s reason to love and live, regardless of the risks involved. Every young musician hopes to find a revelation, and Labit wants us to know that he’s found his.
