We previously featured MOLTENO for her connected and transcendental opus, Clouds, as well as the conscious and enticing, Stars, and the atmospheric and celestial single, Moonlight, so when we heard that the visionary artist was back with Treading Water, we couldn’t wait to listen.
Drawing us in with rippling astral arpeggios and atmospheric vocal ad libs, MOLTENO opens Treading Water with poetic prowess and introspective prowess as she shares metaphorical themes and the conceptual hook about “treading water for your love…”
The emergence of a brooding and emotional bassline with a sublime orchestral arrangement really taps into our heart’s centre as MOLTENO shares her powerful sonic universe with us. The opus is magical, transcendental and filled with raw authenticity. The instrumentation is sublimely cinematic, making the track perfect for a range of sync deals – perhaps an episode of HBO’s Euphoria or an emotive scene in Netflix’s Olympo.
The track feels fluid and weightless. It’s both comforting and unsettling – laced with drama and intrigue, reminding us of early BANKS, particularly Begging For Thread. Each note mirrors the tension between holding on and letting go, between love’s calm and chaos.
We learn that Treading Water serves as the first glimpse of Element 3, the latest chapter in MOLTENO’s elemental series. This time, she explores water – its fragility, power and emotional depth. MOLTENO continues to craft more than just music. She builds entire worlds with her soundscapes and conceptual, avant-garde artistry.
Her collaboration with fashion label BECCI adds a striking visual dimension to her sound, and it is no surprise that she has already praise by WONDERLAND, EARMILK, and BBC Radio 6 Music. Naturally, we have added the hypnotic track to our New Music Spotlight playlist, and our TIMELESS playlist, whilst we anticipate the remainder of Element 3!