The online collaborators that make up the duo sapeur.wav are dedicated to pursuing an unconventional path. Comprised of singer-songwriter Katrell and singer-songwriter and producer Numonics, the two have joined musical forces, working to inspire others to be true to themselves and free-thinkers. Their previous releases have had elements of funk, soul, and alternative sounds, but their newest project has taken them in a different artistic direction. Universe Provides is a lo-fi, R&B/soul-based EP that radiates authenticity and positivity.
overshadowed doubts is a great intro to the modern, dynamic sounds of this duo. Synth-heavy, the layered percussion serves as the primary backdrop for the hopeful and optimistic dream-chasing lyrics. This is followed by royalty, where gorgeous layered harmonies dominate the chorus, combined with a particularly catchy melody that makes this track a stand-out.
A range of vocal processing is used across this project to great effect, but the clean and bright feel in the intro of runnin’ is both a welcome change and the strongest showing of vocal skill on the EP. It also showcases some impressive lyric work: “my words become bullets, so please duck when they spray“. There’s an energy shift at march, definitively leaning in the alt-pop direction; the inclusion of the horns offers a new and unexpected texture that suits this track perfectly.
The dark energy in givin’ it all away is powerful, again leaning into pop-influenced sounds with its deep bass and balanced harmonies. Closing the EP is the title track universe provides, a mellow but soulful number with an inherently positive and uplifting message that works as a great summation of the project.
The heartfelt and well-executed sounds of sapeur.wav will resonate with many – with their varied genre interests present and well-represented, alt-pop fans and modern R&B enthusiasts alike will find themselves at home with Universe Provides. This duo has a compelling artistic range and a good handle on solid production choices – we look forward to hearing more from them in the future.
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BELOW: Listen to Universe Provides and connect with their social media platforms. Please support sapeur.wav by visiting them online, and playing, downloading, and/or purchasing their music, or attending a live show! And, as always, thank you for supporting real music!