Single Review: Kitsuku - Enough

Based in Manchester, Kintsuku is a refreshingly different alt-pop artist whose electronic songs are currently surging in success. Furthermore, her experience in an atmospheric rock band gives her sound an extra edge.

Her latest single ‘Enough’ begins with an exposed synth pattern, immediately rhythmic and driving the music onwards. Produced by Linkin Park’s Mike Shinoda - Kintsuku’s soft, lush vocal sound blends beautifully with this gentle, ethereal opening. Distinctive drum fills add drama to this song around the passionate melodies. Leading up towards the chorus, there is a build in texture, the melodies are quite melancholic, and the vocal harmonies above intensify this.

Beneath Kintsuku’s powerful vocal lines, there are several rich instrumental layers, each crafted to make this chorus as climactic as possible. At this point in the song there is a wash of tonal colour as she ascends into heart-wrenching melodies, deepened by her raw tone. The vocal lines then start to overlap each other, creating an intricate patchwork of musical ideas.

After this hugely climactic moment, the texture drops right back down to the initial vulnerable synth pattern, allowing Kintsuku’s voice to be heard more clearly. The dramatic drum line punches back into the chorus, and the song ends solemnly on the lyric “I just want to be free”.

Kintsuku has created a stunningly unique soundscape in her new single ‘Enough’, and there is more to come as her debut album is already in progress. Until then, her music live streams on Twitch are worth tuning into.

Words: Alice Hill