Seven songs long, “Drip Crimson” sees New Zealand songwriter, producer, DJ, vocalist, and rapper Villette collaborating with fellow New Zealand producer Troy Samuela, and Chicago-based beatmaker Kev, in the process crafting a melody-led, RnB and soul informed dreamscape of sound and intimacy.

Powered by a narrative that follows the journey of a relationship from rose-tinted first dates and sleepovers, to a slow creeping realisation things aren’t quite right, frustration and anger, reflection, and a chance at redemption, it’s the result of ten months of intensive effort and introspection.

While it can be pretty dark and heavy-handed at points, “Drip Crimson” is cathartic as well, ascendant vocal melodies and spacious-yet-smoldering grooves dovetailing together into an intimate investigation of what it means to be young, in love, and out-of-love, but looking back fondly as well. It’s a worthy debut from an artist on the cusp of ascension.

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Stream “Drip Crimson” on Soundcloud.