Josh Kempen has the makings of a true heartbreaker in the music industry
And it’s not only his good looks that will peak the hormones off pubescent girls. His music is equally charming, emotionally mature and symbolises the coming of a new generation. So flawless and fused with sub-genres, he makes for a great poster child of contemporary folk blues flavour for the existing soulful South African scene.
“Howling at the moon” begins with a tone so familiar and reminiscent to something I would imagine The Kooks would play. Its surface value is endearing, but doesn’t grip me until midway when his lyrical flow is supported by the backing vocals of a feminine tone. The route of the EP starts in a precise manner. He is aware of the direction he wants to go to and believes in what he sings about, the connections are intense and fill of honour, and its truth does not burden its listeners.
There is a more concrete and idiosyncratic approach in “I’m coming home” where Kempen utilises his craft in a certain way. The layers in his voice allow him to transform the sound, giving it time to build up a narrative of composition. As the pitch rises, there is a sense of translucence coming in. I often hear the signature production looming in many of his soundtracks, and this time is no different. When the track shifts, I can hear the influence of Thor Rixon coming in, contracting a unique and conceptual tone to his voice and the track itself.
If “Midnight Ship” was the very first and last thing I ever heard, I would end my relationship with audio immediately. His husk in his vocal chords staggers and emanate with drowsy reverb of a feeling belonging to another era. It makes me reflect on what once was, what could be and what is now, all while the guitar softly caresses the potential of a life that partners its activity with audible emotion.
There is nothing predictable about this EP. There is contrast, life and intricate resonance. “You are the one” is expressive, pretty and owns up to new layers of music. As one moment echoes, another moment squeaks or chimes. Its nuances are real and its vocal segments, dreamy.
“Ysabel Lola” is a pick-me-up from an average day. With Spanish segments of amour, Kempen’s mature sound evolves into an idea, one which travels through generations and becomes so occupied with the reality of now- of love- of light- and of lust. As he picks up the pace of the song, I imagine him playing in public, where street performers and Latino dancers circle and play around him. It is current and distinctive, and that right there makes the charming lad from Aussie stand out.
As he bows out from his last song, I take in the entirety of the EP. Solid, but simple techniques and compositions that are easy to relate to, Josh Kempen will be a sound maker as a career choice for a long time.
Download the Midnight Ship EP here and be sure to follow Joshua Kempen on Facebook and Twitter to stay up to date.
