Toronto-based artist Rayhan showcases his range on two new singles. “2014” delivers a confident Scarborough hip-hop anthem driven by buzzing synths, while the brief “Part 2: Love & Distance” shifts into an intimate, guitar-led indie sound with a hypnotic fade-out. Both tracks offer a first look at his upcoming sophomore album, Kerið, out on September 4th.

“2014” stirs in its evident momentum, stirring with pulses of keys and buzzy synths as Rayhan’s vocals exude “I made it pretty far” despite personal strife. A chirpy, brass-like element emerges alongside a sturdy rhythmic backing, invigorating as the verses commence with the “this is my legacy / born in centenary” vigor. That line reprises about a minute thereafter with more effervescent synth flair, continuing to alternate with depictions of strife — “tested in these cold streets” — with confident quips like “I got the shit that do damage.” It represents a charismatic, well-produced hip-hop success from Rayhan.

Making a very strong impact despite a runtime around one minute, “Part 2: Love & Distance” is similarly compelling, though excelling with an initial rock-ready disposition, as twangy guitar tones and bouncy bass envelop with a sort of jam-band fervor. A slowed-down prowess enamors within the “if looks could kill” sequence, where Rayhan shifts to a solemn, seductively hypnotic pull before dissolving into a hazy, psychedelic fade-out. Both “2014” and “Part 2: Love & Distance” are further memorable productions from Rayhan, who has caught our ears previously with releases like June Was Something, LAZY BURNING EP, and EP #5 / CRYONIC.

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