You know those link ups that you would never have thought of but actually make perfect sense? No? Allow Rasharn Powell and Ojerime to explain. Coming together as two of the UK’s “most unorthodox vocalists” for a new single titled ‘Play 2’, this collab sees the two take over LA’s desert in the accompanying video.
Using movement and shadows to enhance the intimacy that permeates the track’s lyrics, the video serves as a visceral reminder of the power in visual expression: complementing the track and offering another dimension of meaning within the project. Dramatic wide pan landscape shots of boulders, all in black and white, remind the viewer of the magnitude of the environment, only for focus to be pulled back to Rasharn & Ojerime as their melodies dominate.
The tune itself lends itself to being described as “futuristic R&B”, with sultry vocals layered over an ambient soundscape and punctuating beats. Produced by Niels and Sam Taieb, the song was actually created in the artists’ first session together – proving good things do come naturally.
Speaking on the video that he co-directed, Rasharn noted that it “lifts us out of this world in a similar way the song does. It’s kinda extraterrestrial. The natural shape of the boulders seems similar to Play 2’s artwork, mirroring the contouring of our bodies. It adds a different view to the sensuality of the song… plus I’ve always wanted a video in the desert!”
Co-signed by the likes of Jamz Supernova, Target and many more, Rasharn is pioneering his own sound, merging vintage with contemporary. After a sell-out show in Hoxton at the tail end of last year, this is the first release of 2022 for both artists, and secures their spots at the forefront of the ever-changing modern R&B scene. Watch the video below.
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