Cycles - Lotide
Single Review
By Holly Farmer
British ambient electronic duo Lotide have released their deeply emotive single ‘Cycles’. The band is greatly influenced by the likes of Jon Hopkins and Sigur Ros, which is evident in their atmospheric, floaty style of music.
The track opens with drawn-out strings and echoing spoken words, revealing a sense of lost identity. High-pitched hazy vocals and emotive piano notes chime in, framing the tracks' sense of melancholy. As the track progresses, various drumbeats are layered, building tension as if an internal battle is commencing. The chorus lyrics detail endless cycles of pain “And these cycles, oh they break me” alluding to a toxic relationship that’s a struggle to break away from. My favourite moment is when the song peaks and Grimes-esc vocals of other-worldly fading cries can be heard. The song concludes with peaceful waves of strings that resemble a calming ocean suggesting the cycle is broken and they are free. Overall, 'Cycles' is an ethereal soundscape that perfectly encapsulates the feeling of being lost in your struggles and the battle to break free. I’d love to see more from Lotide this year!