brakence Conjures an Emotional Maelstrom  on "argyle"

image

We named brakence one of our top artists to watch in 2021, and truth be told, we were starting to get worried his relative radio silence would prove us wrong. At least that was the case until the release of his latest single, "argyle," a striking reminder of the Ohio native's genre-spanning appeal and limitless potential.

"argyle" marks the first new single from brakence since the release of 2020's "sauceintherough," which we championed as a heartfelt adrenaline rush. In trademark brakence style, "argyle" is a heart-rending sonic and emotional journey from start to finish that sees him tackling themes of mental health, existential dread, and the cost of growing fame.  

Over a soundscape comprised of wistful production flourishes and dizzying guitar loops, brakence hints at the burden of outward expectation in likes like "You turned my personality into some kind of fetish" and "I started all this shit as an outlet / ... And an old friend told me that I sold out." It's a harrowing track that sees brakence in a state of emotional turmoil, not just over the world closing in around him but also having to deal with a still bleeding heartbreak. This mounting maelstrom culminates in the song's chorus and closing moments as brakence desperately searches for an escape from it all.

Existing as a nebulous and intoxicating fusion of alternative, hyperpop, and emo-rap, "argyle" sees brakence solidifying his penchant for deeply affective songwriting while finding the time and space to explore novel sonic textures. It turns out some things are truly worth the wait; the king has returned.

Listen to "argyle" below:

Related Articles

Kevin Abstract Returns Home in 'Blush'

Kevin Abstract Returns Home in 'Blush'

June 27, 2025 “In 2024, I was dealing with heartbreak, addiction, feeling completely lost. Felt myself erasing myself from me."
Author: Jazmin Kylene
pop
rap
Evening Elephants New EP Is Carefree.... Very [Q&A]

Evening Elephants New EP Is Carefree.... Very [Q&A]

June 27, 2025 We caught up with Evening Elephants for the latest on their release, working with state-of-the-art producers, and more.
Author: Hillary Safadi
Daisy the Great Take a Trip Through the Subconscious in The Rubber Teeth Talk [Q&A]

Daisy the Great Take a Trip Through the Subconscious in The Rubber Teeth Talk [Q&A]

June 27, 2025 Kelley Dugan and Mina Walker joined OnesToWatch for a conversation about the release, their most expansive and introspective album yet.
Author: Chancey Stefanos