CircleKSK – Escape

“Escape” is the latest single by CircleKSK, a Tokyo-based project known for delivering exceptional music. That’s also the case this time, thanks to CircleKSK‘s tremendous writing, composing, and arranging abilities, empowered by Deborah’s outstanding vocal performance, Gentoku Araki’s mindblowing guitar works, and Antonia Marquee’s evocative lyrics. CircleKSK is also known for experimentation with different but complementary music genres, so this time, you can expect a modern hard rock number decorated with some sonic maneuvers that evoke nostalgia. “Escape” continuously levitates between contemporary and retro sound, paying homage to the timeless rock subgenre. However, you may also stumble upon some of the finest properties borrowed from other complementary music genres like heavy metal, alternative, indie rock, etc. The skillful artist thoroughly assembled all the segments, instrumentations, accentuations, details, and nuances, making this track a pleasant sonic experience.

The entire band shines with tremendous power. You’ll immediately notice Deborah’s magnificent vocal performance, decorating all the segments and instrumentations with perfectly balanced low, mid, and high notes. Her vocal harmonies flawlessly suit all the themes, leads, melodies, and riffs, delivered by the tastefully distorted guitars. These guitar works also serve as a perfect backdrop for Deborah’s vocal articulations, and it’s nearly mindblowing how her voice and all these sonic maneuvers work in harmony. Of course, this song wouldn’t sound so powerful without equally complex, vividly hearable, warm-sounding basslines, which offer more than necessary heaviness, depth, and clarity, but also act as a binding element between guitars and drums. You’ll also notice how keyboard leads, sequences, chords, and ambiances come like a cherry on top, adding more complexity to the song. Nothing would sound this good without exceptional drumming performance based upon energetic, well-accentuated beats, breaks, fills, and other percussive acrobatics. The rhythm section dictates the groove and pace but also keeps all the other instrumentations in line.

Dark Forge Audio’s masterful mixing and mastering made sure that every instrument shines in the mix, and you’ll notice how “Escape” possesses a quality that meets all the trends in modern sound production. CircleKSK proves once again he’s an artist who knows how to write, compose, and arrange catchy hard rock tracks that will immediately appeal to even the pickiest fans of the genre. However, this song will also suit newbies to hard rock, since it carries so many elements borrowed from other music styles. Deborah and Gentoku Araki offered their best performance, while Antonia Marquee’s empowering lyricism immediately resonated with the listeners. “Escape” will instantly become a staple on your playlist, because it bursts with impressive ideas and outstanding musicianship. You should check it out as soon as possible. The single is available on all streaming platforms.