Asianblonde. are an upcoming pop/r&b duo from London, asking the question “Who’s got your attention?” Given a listen, their new single ‘attention’ is an attempt to shift audiences’ in their direction. Produced by one half of the duo, Will Rhead, alongside Alexander Ross [SAUS.wyd], ‘attention’ deserves all of yours. Released on January 17th, the single follows their equally as impressive 2023 EP ‘bby’. The two come together in a skilful collaboration to craft the impressive ‘boyband’ inspired track, their talent shining.
For Will and Ed of asianblonde., ‘attention’ is just the next layer to their carefully crafted image. Taking inspiration from 2010’s MTV culture and musicians like NSYNC and Justin Timberlake, the two have enthusiastically adopted their own ‘Boyband Era’ aesthetic. Promo delivered with evident artistic intentionality labels them ‘London’s hottest 2 packaged deal’. Though, behind this curated front, asianblonde. are delivering equally as thoughtful music.
Past its outward aestheticism, ‘attention’ is a contemplative song, about a past relationship. It manages to skilfully navigate blurry distinctions between meaningful love versus attention. The song questions what others are seeking, and how that contrasts with the depth they’re willing to give. With a deep-cutting vulnerability its emotional arc ends far from superficial and thick with desperation: “Please don’t talk to me/ I hate what you see/ Please go easily.” All the while, collaboration with close musical friends, Jayya and 8rae keeps the track vibrant and dynamic. While uplifting emotionally-charged lyrics to resemble a ‘boyband’ classic, the musicality of ‘attention’ is just as striking as the words it flows under.
Despite its lyrics of troubled connection, there’s no angst in the collaboration behind ‘attention’. With five years under their belt, asianblonde. continue to deliver musical harmony. Working with previous collaborators only enhances the electricity and fun of the single. Though a potentially basic take, what asianblonde. have delivered so far brings great excitement for being entirely reminiscent of Brockhampton. The strength and vivacious energy behind their ‘boyband’ image and promo, and talented collaborative tracks makes it an undeniable comparison. Teeming with the talent and energy of many 2000s/2010s artists, asianblonde. are well on their way to capture the industry’s attention.
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