For someone who maintains a low profile, Dominic Fike has been quite present this summer. From a collaborative release with his friend and long-time partner Kevin Abstract (check out ‘Geezer’) to performing with his son at Lollapalooza earlier this month, all indications pointed to a new phase, which has now been revealed as his latest mixtape, ‘Rocket’.
While Fike's popularity stems from upbeat radio hits like ‘3 Nights’ and ‘misses’, ‘Rocket’ adopts a darker, more introspective tone, illustrating his artistic depth and demonstrating that he goes well beyond TikTok fame and the limitations of brief 15-second clips.
This introspection is immediately apparent in the intro to ‘All Hands On Deck’, where he hesitantly states, “I want your germs” against a haunting bass line. As the song progresses, it becomes evident that it sets the stage for the mixtape’s central themes—fatherhood and survival (“Man, you got a son” / “try your hardest, you stale and starvin’”), with the “germs” referring to his son, after whom the mixtape is named.
‘Rocket’ also marks Fike's return to his roots, featuring rap verses that harken back to his early Soundcloud days before the BROCKHAMPTON endorsement elevated his profile in the music scene. With a slower tempo, his delivery approaches the realm of spoken word, enhancing the tape’s mature sound.
This is not to suggest that ‘Rocket’ lacks danceability. Tracks like ‘Sandman’ and ‘Upset & Aggressive’ incorporate more experimental sounds and higher pitches that allow for head-bobbing. It’s evident that Fike's knack for rhythm and playfulness shines through, even while he tackles more serious subjects in his work.
Throughout the mixtape, we witness Fike’s impressive vocal range—peaking with the soulful tones of ‘David Lyons’ as he contemplates a past relationship. His reflections are accompanied by a rich, warm musical backdrop, perfectly complementing his voice and amplifying the emotional weight of the track.
While ‘Rocket’ starts on a gritty note, its concluding tracks, fittingly titled ‘Epilogue’ and ‘Still Feel It’, come together to provide a gentle resolution. An amalgamation of obscured vocals and bright soundscapes creates an ethereal ending that aligns with the mixtape’s overall diverse sonic texture.
8/10
Words: Zahra Hanif
It's safe to say that Royel Otis is currently in high demand. With only a few EPs, one complete album, and two impressive covers to their name, each
Finnish alternative musician Louie Blue grapples with themes of betrayal and abuse in “In the Dark,” a moody and deeply soulful confession that blends the textured guitar sounds of Mk.gee with a personal longing and a fearless DIY ethos. In an interview with Atwood Magazine, he shares insights into the creative risks, stark imperfections, and unvarnished emotional realities that inform his forthcoming third album, ‘Blood & Bones.’
The Irish singer-songwriter is set to release a follow-up to last year's 'Can I Miss It For A Minute?' later this year.
.jpg)
The band's live release featuring 21 tracks is now accessible on their Bandcamp page.
Karin Ann is back with her latest single 'i was never yours'. The vocalist's first album 'through the telescope' was released last year, offering a refreshing take on alt-pop.
Before embarking on their tours in North America and Europe, Ian Devaney and Aidan Noell of Nation of Language took a moment to connect with Clash writer Megan Walder to
Despite maintaining a low profile, Dominic Fike has been quite present throughout the summer. This includes a collaborative release with his friend and long-time collaborator Kevin.