We sat down with Verse Vicer and Hatori to learn more about their unique sound. Check out their influences below and make sure to listen to their new single, 'Pull Me Under' at the bottom!
Verse Vicer:
D'Angelo – One More Gin
The smooth neo-soul groove of One More Gin is unmatched. D’Angelo’s vocals and harmonies have this deep, lilting texture that pulls you in, and the subtle layers in the production create a sense of intimacy. It’s the kind of song that makes you sink into its vibe completely. This track has definitely influenced how I approach vocal arrangements and the importance of creating an atmosphere with minimalism while still keeping it rich and soulful.
Muse – Plug In Baby
This song was a big deal for me as a teenager. I remember seeing Muse headline Glastonbury, and they performed Plug In Baby with so much raw energy. I was there with two of my best mates, one of whom has since passed away, so that memory is etched in my mind forever. The emotion and power behind that performance are something I strive to capture in my own music—something that hits hard but stays with you long after.
Vulfmon – Got to Be Mine
This is a more recent discovery, but it’s already made a lasting impact on me. Got to Be Mine is a masterclass in texture and subtlety. The hooky vocals combined with the intricate arrangements make it irresistibly catchy, and I love how it mixes simplicity with complexity. It’s definitely influenced how I think about layering sounds in my own productions, making sure each part is doing something interesting.
Hatori:
Jazmine Sullivan - Pick Up Your Feelings
Aside from being my favorite vocalist of all time, Jazmine Sullivan has continuously put out songs that stand out and become legendary. This song in particular lacks chords, and is instead built on a strong, steady beat and a very simple bass line. She essentially adds all syncopation and chordal information with her voice. This taught me how to strip a song down to its bare essentials in order to build it back up with carefully selected sounds and placement.
Kimbra - Rescue Him
This song is from her album “The Golden Echo,” which is likely the album I have listened to the most out of all albums. This song in particular is a brilliant showcase of her mastery of her own voice; changing its tone, breath, and character, in order to color each part with intention. Her creativity in production, the subject matter, and her willingness to break patterns of repetition was all influential in how I write, sing, and produce. It’s a breathtaking piece, and I still remember the first time I heard it.
Verse Vicer & Hatori - Pull Me Under
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