Jordan Rakei is, I would argue, one of the most prolific artists making music today. Ever since I was a 20-year-old chap, now eight years ago, I cannot remember a single period where he has not been releasing something new. He never stops evolving, yet somehow manages to maintain an incredibly high level of quality. That is not something many artists can say.

His new track, "Enemies," is the first single from his upcoming album A Safe Place To Be Wild, and it introduces a sound that I have not quite heard from him before. The song feels like a fascinating blend of influences, almost none of which I can pinpoint exactly. There is definitely a bit more pop and catchiness than I would usually expect from a Jordan Rakei track, but thankfully none of it feels forced. The melodies are effortlessly beautiful and instantly memorable.

The chorus is where I really hear some of Jordan's older influences shine through, or at least the ones I have come to associate with his music. The shift to the minor chord is just so satisfying. The first time you hear it, it almost catches you off guard, but by the second or third listen it starts to feel completely inevitable. Those little harmonic moments are part of what makes Jordan such a consistently rewarding artist.

The production strikes a brilliant balance between feeling full and airy. There is a lot going on, but nothing fights for your attention. Instead, Jordan's voice and the rhythmic foundation carry the song forward while everything else exists to complement them. It is a carefully crafted track that reveals more of itself with every listen.

If you have never listened to Jordan Rakei before, "Enemies" is a fantastic place to start. If you are already a fan, I think there is a lot here to get excited about. Go give it a spin.

Author: Peter Källman

Peter Källman is a writer from Sweden who loves playing in bands, writing reviews and going to live shows!