Moving Castle label co-founder Chris Gavino, aka Manila Killa, is back with another eloquently produced single, “Dark Places.” Despite the somber song title, this collaborative tune is anything but. Singer-songwriter Kwesi contributes soul-stirring vocals that evoke a plaintive and introspective energy. “We got love so don’t waste it; on dark places…” sings Kwesi. And while the song’s lyrics are poignant, they are musings on choices and thoughtful words of encouragement. “We have choices to make every day and sometimes, the mind can go to dark and strange places that are often unhealthy and destructive. This song is about finding our way out of that darkness and working to be better for ourselves and those around us every day,” shared Kwesi.
Known for his distinctly moving style of production, Manila Killa pivots into a more percussion-heavy sound design in “Dark Places.” The deep-electronic track is a mesmerizing harmony of Kwesi’s hauntingly beautiful vocals, Manila Killa’s signature atmospheric melodies, and subtly integrated synthesizers. “Dark Places” denotes a new era of perspective on the world and how it relates to music for the young producer. “Feelings of nostalgia have overcome many of us, including me in the past two years and I wanted to explore that realm through this song. After hearing the initial vocal demo, I immediately knew that I wanted to draw inspiration from brooding, moody and dark influences and Kwesi’s haunting voice and lyrics offer a glimpse of hope that I molded the instrumental production around,” said Manila Killa.
“Dark Places” is the artist’s first release since 2021’s “Mean It” with San Holo and Nick Lopez. After devoting years to the creation and touring of music as half of the lo-fi electronic dance music duo Hotel Garuda, and transitioning into a solo act in 2018, Manilla Killa will finally release his own debut album this summer. In the meantime, stream the new single below.
Featured image: John Liwag
The post Manila Killa unveils new song featuring Kwesi, announces debut album appeared first on Dancing Astronaut.
Source: dancingastronaut.com
