Katherine Mueller
Staff Writer
In “MOONCHILD”, the door to NIKI’s soul and imagination are left open, hypnotizing listeners with magnificent sounds and lyrics like that of musical echoes from the cosmos.
“MOONCHILD” offers a diverse collection of songs, with each bringing a new sensation to the table. The album features everything from trap beats to piano ballads, all encompassing a notably unique lo-fi tone, putting the listener in the perfect stellar mood.
Indonesian singer songwriter Nicole Zefanya, professionally known as NIKI, had her musical debut at the age of 15, as the opening act for Taylor Swift’s “The Red Tour” in Jakarta, Indonesia. Since then, she has released several R&B inspired singles including “I Like U” and “Vintage” under American media label 88rising, and has been featured in 88rising albums “Head in the Clouds” I and II.
“MOONCHILD” has been in the works for two years, and acts as a product of musical evolution and enlightenment for NIKI. The album, consisting of 10 tracks, reached streaming platforms on Sep. 10, and includes several pre-released singles including “Selene” and “Lose.”
“Switchblade” depicts NIKI’s journey from Indonesia to the United States, where she feels like she is entering a prosperous new world of possibilities. Though she is all alone in this new place, she harbors a relentless persevering attitude, or “switchblade faith” that pulls her through. This song contains a youthful pop-synth beat that will make you feel like you are running through a brisk summer night, while holding the world in the palm of your hand.
One of the most intoxicating songs on the album is “Selene”. In this song, NIKI falls into the clutches of her alter ego “Selene,” inspired by the Greek goddess of the moon of the same name. This song encompasses a catchy baseline and undeniably elegant and sultry aura, which leads it to be one of the most memorable songs on the album.
The album takes much inspiration from the majesty and mysticality of the moon, with many of the songs including celestial and oceanic sounds and themes. The album is subtly divided, based on song progression, into 3 “phases,” which adds a brilliant cohesivity to the already unique and high-quality album.
The song “Pandemonium” perfectly encapsulates the feeling of a specific, and sometimes indescribable emotional unease. The song ambles through themes of being judged by others and being trapped in one’s head, all experienced while trying to stifle one’s emotions. This song features a raindrop-like and synthy Lo-fi beat that perfectly matches with the lyrics and lets the listener fall deep into the recesses of their own mind.
“Lose” is undeniably the most moving song in the album. The song laments the feeling when one opens their eyes to the true nature of an intimate, yet toxic relationship, and knows that dreaming any further is void of any point. This song features an emotive piano accompaniment by Bekon, and powerful and harmonious vocals from NIKI which support the hauntingly precise and relatable lyrics.
With “MOONCHILD,” NIKI leaves a sublime and lasting impression on listeners, whilst rightfully staking her claim and originality in the world of music.
Released on Sep. 10, “MOONCHILD” is available to stream on most platforms, including Spotify and YouTube, and is available for purchase on platforms such as iTunes.
Leave a Reply