AUNCE‘s sophomore single, Evergreen, is a kaleidoscopic journey into the psyche, expertly weaving playful astral synths, immersive soundscapes, and poetic introspection. From its opening notes, the song invites listeners into a cerebral universe, pulsating with frequencies that feel both intimate and infinite. The track is a study in contrasts, balancing the ethereal with the visceral, the meditative with the kinetic, and the known with the unknown – a fitting soundscape for its thematic exploration of taking a leap of faith.
The opening is akin to the start of a DMT trip – a dreamy synth glistens like stardust, pulling us into an astral plane. The soundscape expands as AUNCE’s delicate, layered vocals enter, harmonizing with the synth in a way that feels like a dialogue between the self and the universe. Syncopated percussion emerges as the song progresses, creating a rhythmic tension that mirrors the push and pull of decision-making and self-discovery.
Evergreen feels both grounding and otherworldly. The trippy instrumental bridges are sublime and the syncopated percussion that emerges showcases a sense of dimensionality that feels spiritually aligned and progressive. The instrumental breakdown for the mystical final breakdown of the song, as well as the breathtaking, meditative, yet trippy outro is divine, bringing us full circle with cosmic echoes, but also cementing the psychedelic nature of the song. This is where AUNCE’s philosophical and sonic experimentation coalesce into a moment of sublime closure.
AUNCE’s lyrics are a masterclass in poetic minimalism, using vivid imagery to explore the oscillation between fear, trust, and self-realization. The refrain, “Evergreen, Evergreen”, captures the constancy and renewal of nature, serving as a metaphor for personal growth and resilience. It suggests that, like evergreens, we are capable of enduring even the harshest conditions.
Lines such as “Closed eyes never helped me before / I can see it clear in the eye of the storm” juxtapose blindness and clarity, hinting at the paradoxical truths we encounter in moments of crisis. The storm symbolizes chaos, yet within it lies the opportunity for lucidity and transformation.
The recurring theme of “Vertigo” is a powerful metaphor for the destabilizing but necessary process of stepping into the unknown. Phrases like “Trying to find my feet in this equilibrium” and “Stepping on a precipice, I was my own nemesis” speak to the internal struggle of dismantling the familiar and trusting oneself to navigate the uncertainty.
A particularly striking verse, “My dear, this is all that you are / Turns out what you thought it was all a facade”, unveils the epiphany that comes with self-realization. It acknowledges the disillusionment and liberation of uncovering deeper truths about oneself and the world.
Evergreen is a sonic meditation on surrendering to life’s inherent unpredictability. It captures the beauty and terror of growth, the vertigo of transformation, and the quiet confidence that arises when one learns to trust the process.
The collaborative efforts of London-based Jordan Rakei, Melbourne’s Boy Soda, and Auckland’s Harry Charles enrich the track, blending diverse sonic textures and perspectives into a cohesive narrative. AUNCE’s signature production style shines through, melding urban rhythms with ethereal elements to create a sound that defies genre and expectation.
Evergreen is a testament to AUNCE’s bold artistry and philosophical depth. It is an invitation to explore the edges of one’s comfort zone and embrace the unknown with courage and curiosity. As the final notes fade, we are left not only with a profound sonic impression but also with a lingering sense of introspection, as though we, too, have taken a leap of faith.
AUNCE has crafted a masterpiece that is as much a work of art as it is a guide for navigating the complexities of the human experience. Hold tight and prepare for the fall, indeed. We have added the opus to our New Music Spotlight playlist, as well as our TRIPPY and TIMELESS playlists, whilst we continue to stream AUNCE‘s debut single, Beep Beep.