flow state

80% Cacao (real name Nathan Keeys) is a US-based music producer and sound designer known for blending atmospheric, ambient textures with soulful guitar riffs and rhythmic percussion. His innovative approach involves recording and experimenting with live instrumentation in his home studio, crafting unique soundscapes that push creative boundaries.

The first time I heard his new single "flow state," I felt as if it was 2016 and I was scrolling through my SoundCloud feed. A timeline where artists like Ta-Ku, fwdslxsh, and Atu were dominating the space and we were at the height of futuristic wobbly electronic music. To be completely honest, I've been longing for a sound like that in my life, but it has been challenging to find it. Needless to say, this discovery felt special.

"flow state" is a sleek, minimalistic downtempo electronic track with smooth yet captivating progression, offering a taste of the dynamic soundscapes from 80% Cacao's upcoming album. I like the vocal incorporation throughout the composition, to which he elaborates, "I enjoy using vocal samples as instruments since I'm not a vocalist".

I'll be keeping an eye on this artist, and you should too.