Kahnin’s latest single, “Hollystick,” is a thought-provoking track that melds Americana, art pop, indie rock, and alternative influences to explore illusion, perception, and the distractions of modern society. Drawing inspiration from the holly oak, a tree that, in fictional worlds, is used to craft magic wands, the song refers to the illusions Hollywood and media present before us as reality. Through this narrative, Kahnin encourages listeners to see beyond what the media teaches us because, like Malcolm X said, ‘The media’s the most powerful entity on earth.’
“Hollystick” opens with a countdown that quickly leads into a luscious, nonchalant brass melody, setting a relaxed yet grand atmosphere. Meanwhile, the plucking of the guitar emanates a soft, relaxing, organic, natural ambience, and the piano hauntingly plays with lingering notes.
Kahnin’s voice enters with a soft, melancholic reverb, giving the song a nostalgic and dreamlike quality. As the chorus hits, his vocals break through the haze with passion and fullness, soaring with emotions. Midway through, the drums drop in, shifting the track’s pace and adding a new layer of energy, transforming the otherwise calming song into something more momentous and engaging.
The lyrics of “Hollystick” invite listeners to “forget what you think” and challenge the narratives we accept without evidence. Kahnin critiques how society is often distracted by tales of hope, boxing us in metaphorical rings where illusions, like a “Hollystick,” keep us in line.
The track gets its polished package from acclaimed contributions from Leo Abrahams (Miley Cyrus, Brian Eno, Harry Styles), Clive Deamer (Portishead, Radiohead), and Dylan Wissing (Alicia Keys, Jay Z) and elevates Kahnin’s message of awakening and self-awareness with the right sound.
Accompanied by a music video filmed in Tokyo and Kyoto, “Hollystick” visually uplifts the music with taste. Check out the music video of “Hollystick” on YouTube.
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Review by: Naomi Joan