Drawing us in with a dimensional, textured soundscape, Will B opens his Afro house remix of Frank Ocean’s Novacane with an ethereal, atmoperhic energy which holds a spiritual, high emotional quotient.
Will B teases the vocals with glitched moments before we experience Frank Ocean‘s stunning delivery that remains true to the original, whilst adding a transcendental sense of clarity, allowing the narrative of the iconic tale to come to life. The production is a sublime and vibrant reimagining that breathes new life into the original track.
The remix captures the essence of Frank Ocean’s metaphorical exploration of numbness and emotional detachment, drawing parallels between the drug Novacaine and the use of auto-tune in the music industry. Ocean’s original lyrics speak to the emptiness he feels after a fleeting sexual encounter, comparing his emotional state to the effects of Novacaine – a drug that numbs both physically and emotionally.
Will B brings a fresh perspective to this story, layering groovy beats and rich synths with Ocean’s haunting vocals. His East London roots and St. Lucian heritage shine through in the remix, infusing it with a rhythmic quality that is both soulful and infectious. The remix kicks off with funky, pulsing beats, gradually introducing atmospheric pads and driving melodies that pull the listener into a danceable groove.
As the track builds, Will B incorporates tribal rhythms, a deep low-end, and dynamic panning that add depth and texture to the production. The result is a rhythmically complex and sonically rich version of Novacane that honours the original while pushing its boundaries and brings a tear to our eyes with the amplified emotion that the song manifests. The soulful beats elevate the track, giving it a refreshing vibe that is both nostalgic and forward-thinking. The subversive outro with a whirring bass synth is majestic and leaves us yearning for more.
This Afro house edit is a fusion of cultures and sounds that showcases Will B’s ability to blend his diverse influences into a signature style. Available now via BandCamp, Will B’s re-imagining of Novacane is a must-listen.