Atlanta-based indie R&B virtuoso Prashant Raghavendran’s musical journey has had a lifetime to develop but to fans of his musical alter ego Captain Highside, his talents have only recently gotten the adoration they have so long deserved. With a sound that defies genres and no fear of pushing boundaries where seen fit, his music paves its own path and blends entertainment with introspective reflection. His newest EP “Chasing Alleyways” plays as if it truly came from his heart and soul as it blends elements of soul, hip hop, and characteristics unique to him as the titular track off this record provides immense insight into the artist and their musical proclivities.
The piece begins with optimism and big energy as heavily modified cords transport us to the dimension of this music and set the tone for the story with great musical intensity. As the artist’s vocals appear to begin the narrative, it is not hard to pick up on the tone they are trying to set as they reflect on prolific emotions from the opening line “I lived for the greed, I lived for the novelty, I lived for dishonesty.” Their vocal tambour gives the piece wings from the first notes, showcasing the artist’s impressive range, resonance, and almost operatic tone.
The song truly transforms at every turn as we feel a changing sense of identity in the music with its tonal shifts. After Raghavendran’s first verse, an interlude of darker, lyrically motivated hip-hop cuts in for a verse before the mood shifts back to a lighter demeanor. The juxtaposition of the section adds to the depth of the music and proves a bold choice in the moment.
Written by Nick Gumas
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