It’s been just over a year since British outfit MOSS debuted with their hypnotic brand of nostalgic trip-hop. A few singles and an EP later (‘Untitled’, released back in November), the Darlington-based duo have put forward a clear aural identity, a mixture of luscious electronica and more distorted post-punk/rock tones. Such a dualism works very well for MOSS, with their angular, anthemic production functioning as a direct opposite to Oui Bee’s ethereal, melodic vocals.
MOSS are just getting started; their latest single, ‘Opener’, is the perfect evidence of that. Marking the group’s first release of the year, the track signals a profound change happening within the project, with an overall steer towards fiercer, more impactful sound design. In a way, it’s good to know that the English talents are not resting on their laurels, instead refining their identity and constantly adapting to their surroundings. ‘Opener’ feels like a timely cut, especially in the face of such a chaotic, destructive global landscape.
Described as an “unapologetic divergence” from their previous material, ‘opener’ takes a break from the group’s usual brooding, melancholic trip-hop formula, instead embracing a high-octane, gritty punk-infused sonic livery that’s sharp and kinetic, certainly hard-hitting. It’s perhaps correct to see ‘Opener’ as a new bold phase in Moss’ short yet fertile history. For us, the new single represents a step forward in terms of intensity and contemporary allure; while the project was previously deeply tied to the early noughties, it now enjoys a wider pool of inspirations.
Recommended! Discover ‘Opener’ now: