What constitutes a “rave?” At its surface, it’s a gathering space for colorful characters to let loose and seek pleasure amid a sea of electronic sounds. Some might even say, in fact, that these events are modernized hotbeds for a lifestyle of “sex, drugs, and rock ‘n roll.” For many, however, the rave offers far more than a one-night, hedonistic jaunt; instead, it’s a place of freedom, where its participants can find themselves on the dance floor, express themselves sans judgement, and even make lifelong connections. The experience of attending a rave can easily be one of transcendence.
It’s precisely these elements that Life on Planets and his collaborator Taylor Bense cover in their newest single, “Glowstick.” The single marks the first of an upcoming EP on Kitsuné, slated for a fall release. Atop a silky foundation woven with spindles of catchy basslines and full-bodied percussion, spitfire verses speak on the seductive properties of the rave dance floor. Beneath the seduction, however, “Glowstick” ultimately serves as a metaphor for that inner freedom that so many ravers seek.
Life on Planets never fails at fusing deeper meaning and intention into his work. Recently, his “Only You” EP debut on Soul Clap Records served as a cathartic body of work that documents important lessons of perseverance, changing life paths, and bringing positive change to the broken systems of the world. His single prior, ‘Take Flight,’ addressed similar societal motifs. Perhaps the artist’s musicality and profound lyricism stem from his roots of R&B, hip-hop, jazz, and funk—all of which are revolutionary genres of their own. Likewise, New York native Taylor Bense has a similar outlook on life and music, leading them to become quick friends and synergistic collaborators after their initial meeting in Berlin.
