We have come to know Karpenko as an eclectic figure. If ‘The River’ was “ceremonious and luscious, steeped in religious flair and nostalgic lyricism”, follow-up ‘The Horizon’ is certainly more haunting and gloomy, with an electronic livery that’s futuristic and boundary-pushing. One constant remains, and it’s Karpenko’s meaningful, inspired lyricism. This time around, he’s taking inspiration from President Lyndon Johnson’s powerful address when signing the Civil Rights Bill on July 2, 1964.
That speech focused on “the belief that all people are created equal, endowed with rights and the blessings of liberty; that they are equal before God and maintain hope for happiness”, Larry eloquently explains. ‘The Horizon’ carries the same ethos, empowering listeners to fight for their rights, making the right choices at a moral and societal level. The goalpost is unity and peace. Samples from Johnson’s speech are woven throughout the record.
Karpenko’s vocals are hypnotising and dynamic as always, here delivered with hazy, anthemic character and short bursts of purpose-driven lyricism. With its ‘beat-like’ nature, the record also resembles a spoken word effort, a rather bold and inspiring one. The electronic arrangement, keeping a fast-paced rhythmic flow going, it’s essential in enhancing the urgent and important message carried by the single.
Recommended! Discover ‘The Horizon’ on Spotify:
