1. Behind the Stage
"In a Dream, It's All the Same" – Excerpt from the chorus.
This track narrates the tale of two college students poised on the threshold between the ordinary and the extraordinary. Outwardly indistinguishable from their peers, these two met in high school and shared a dream: to expand the boundaries of confined art and to disseminate remarkable creations to the world. As their dream crystallized, they reached a point where, no matter where they were, closing their eyes always brought them to the same vision(same dream). Their uniform goal sets them apart from the typical student, defined by their exceptional artistry and a vast artistic spectrum.
"We only bought one-way tickets for this journey," "Leaving everything behind, we embarked on this trip" – Excerpt from the chorus.
VITA NOVA, Latin for 'new life,' symbolizes the rebirth through embracing new challenges and following one's inner voice, leaving past achievements and efforts behind. In the song, Ondosi and Andy Pothole of KOWHAI express that living the coveted VITA NOVA ultimately depends on oneself and heeding one's inner calling.
These two young artists, rather than conforming to societal expectations, pursue their own VITA NOVA – a life dedicated to creation. Having recognized each other's clear dreams, they formed KOWHAI and embarked on a journey towards their dreams, leaving behind the murmurs of others, the compromises and principles of the real world, and all the influences that had previously constrained them. Choosing to live this new life, they are unfazed by how high their journey takes them. Whether physically or mentally in a different place, they always dream the same dream. The single [VITA NOVA] encapsulates this lifestyle and the duo's message.
The story of two boys embarking on a journey from ordinary college students to the new identities of Ondosi and Andy Pothole through VITA NOVA.
2. Musicology
"A track like a salad, blending 9 different synthesizers, guitar, bass, and drums to create a new flavor."
The single [VITA NOVA] by Ondosi and Andy Pothole is a melting pot of their artistic values. Eschewing the formulaic 'modern HIP-HOP' approach of looping beats with drums, they strategically placed 12 different instruments, including nine types of synthesizers, guitar, and bass, showcasing their boundless musical potential.
The refreshing synthesizer chords and groovy guitar riffs played over the synthesizer bass instantly evoke a sense of excitement, as if urging the listener to embark on a journey. The sensuous lead synthesizer arpeggio, appearing after the chorus's beat drop, along with the relentless fill-in drums, instantly captivates attention. The summery guitar chords, the tickling rhythm guitar at the end of each bar, and the solid Latin-style bass underpinning it all make their debut single an auditory delight with varying highlights upon each listen. The chorus is particularly striking with its rich, refreshing harmonies, and the drums' delicate balance of intensity and release is noteworthy. The bridge, evoking deep contemplation like diving underwater, and the sudden drum layback in the outro are also significant points of appreciation.
[VITA NOVA] is set in C Major at 120 BPM, a tempo that mirrors the average adult's heart rate and walking pace, and is often associated with dancing or making love. The choice of C Major, composed solely of white keys, creates an image that is bright, clean, and fundamental.
[VITA NOVA] is a track that immerses listeners in the unique charm of Ondosi and Andy Pothole's music. While rooted in rap, the fusion of pop, electronic, and band music in the beats continually piques interest. KOWHAI interprets various genres like trap and future bass in their unique style, crossing genre boundaries and transcending conventional musical limits. Their creative music, filled with fresh elements, serves as a vital medium for conveying their message.
This track, embodying the energy of culture-loving youth and the fundamental spirit of hip-hop, reflects KOWHAI's attitude towards art, their conviction in their goals, and their passion to introduce a new paradigm.
3. Artist Comments
[Ondosi Commentary]
During the mixing process, I deliberated over reducing the synthesizer level due to its overlap with the vocals. However, I wanted the synthesizer, soaring post-beat drop, to evoke an unleashed dog frolicking across a meadow, with my vocals accompanying it like a contented owner. This decision was affirmed when I monitored the track outdoors, walking in sync with its beat, adding to the enjoyment of the song
[AP Commentary]
The working title for this song was 'Mint Lipbalm.' Inspired by the refreshing yet somehow drying sensation of the mint lip balm I applied one morning, the track reflects this experience. The character of the cobalt blue or emerald synthesizers and the spiraling chord progression evoke that morning's experience, making it intriguing to ponder where the instruments and melodies will take you.
VITA NOVA
