Nikol is an alt-pop band based out of Nashville, TN. They have been on a roll since they formed. After releasing their debut album entitled Bittersweet they landed thirteen licensing offers for shows such as Keeping Up With the Kardashians, The Real World, WWE and more. They also played SXSW four times, Vans Warped Tour two separate years, The Incarceration Festival, and have opened for bands like Pop Evil, Failure Anthem, Icon for Hire, Eyes Set To Kill. Their most recent release is entitled “Headspace.”
This is a very contemporary sounding song that combines a number of different styles. It’s like there were no restrictions with this song. The song starts with what sounds like some kind of filtered pad which quickly rises into a synth bass and distant guitars. I loved the lead vocals but there’s also a lot to pay attention to in the background if you have a nice pair of speakers or headphones. The hook comes quickly. It’s catchy, dreamy and doesn't overstay its welcome. The chorus did remind me of the band CHVRCHES. The second verse comes in with dream like qualities that are in full effect. Instrumental aspects blend together into a synesthesia of experience. I loved the transitions after the second chorus. There’s orchestral strings here which create tension and the drone is added as well. This combination felt very original and worked very well. The third chorus is the most magnified. I can’t say I know exactly what the lyrics were about but my interpretation was that the song was about dealing with doubt and regret. Generally, I interpreted it as about taking care of your mental health. Lines like “There’s a face in the mirror staring back at me / Tell Me / I’m a failure and that’s all I’ll be / No More / living in this headspace” feel like lyrics I think most people can relate to. I sure did. The thing the song does really well is give you a sense of hope. I think the words are delivered in a way where you can feel the determination. On top of that I thought the production was exceptional. It can easily be played on any major radio station. I can hear why the group garnered so much attention. This was an introduction to the band and I can say I was impressed.
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