Ana Roxanne and Brian Piñeyro, AKA DJ Python, may fall on opposite ends of the musical spectrum, but that only makes their joint project Natural Wonder Beauty Concept all the more captivating. On their first single, Sword, they find a middle ground between Roxanne’s dream pop aesthetic and Piñeyro’s dembow-inspired rhythms to foster a unique sound that blends their individual styles. It’s reminiscent of Piñeyro’s recent collaboration with Ela Minus in approach, but far more jagged and astral in execution.
The result is a mesmerizing fusion of Roxanne’s soothing vocals and Piñeyro’s bass-heavy club elements, infused with an otherworldly shoegaze quality that shifts tempo toward Portishead trip-hop. Roxanne’s vocals, usually distant, take on a more prominent and piercing role as they intertwine with Piñeyro’s staccato synths, sound effects, and clever use of pitch-shifting.
Download and stream Sword here
The song, both surreal and soft, serves as an enticing glimpse into the duo’s forthcoming album. The collaboration not only showcases their shared affinity for drifting melodies and dreamy atmospheres, but also brings out new dimensions in their respective styles. The song delicately weaves together Piñeyro’s lurching machine beats, Roxanne’s crystalline soprano coo, and a bittersweet harpsichord pattern that highlights their common melodic traits. Through unexpected tempo shifts and harmonics, Sword evokes a sense of two close confidants discovering a fresh path forward together.
Listen to Sword below.
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