Nova Twins’ Latest Album Showcases an Intriguing Mix of Musical Styles
Nova Twins have returned with their latest album, “Parasites & Butterflies,” marking their first release in three years since the success of their 2022 album, “Supernova.” The band has managed to carve out a name for themselves in the UK music scene, having shared the stage with powerhouse acts like Muse, Foo Fighters, and Bring Me the Horizon. Their eclectic sound draws inspiration from a myriad of musical genres spanning four decades, resulting in a mesmerizing blend of styles that make their music a true polyglot.
Diving into “Parasites & Butterflies,” listeners are immediately greeted with a wall of sound dominated by distorted guitars and bass, courtesy of an impressive array of guitar and bass pedals. Despite the band’s claim that no synthesizers or electronic effects were used in the album, the tracks are drenched in layers of buzzing loudness, making it challenging to discern the intricacies of the music. It takes multiple listens to peel back the dense layers of sound and appreciate the innovative ideas at play in their compositions.
Nestled in the album is the ego-boosting track “N.O.V.A.,” a classic hip-hop anthem where the duo flaunt their prowess. The song exudes a grimy rock-rap vibe reminiscent of N.E.R.D.’s early work, complete with commanding guitar and bass riffs. The catchy chorus overlaid on a marching snare drum rhythm adds an extra punch to the track, asserting the Nova Twins’ unapologetic self-assurance.
“Soprano” continues the exploration of hip-hop influences, with its driving beats and rapped verses contrasted by a soaring, wordless chorus. The harsh, guttural delivery of the verses complements the high-register peaks in the chorus, creating a dynamic interplay between the different vocal elements. On “Sandman,” rock meets dubstep in a mesmerizing fusion of herky-jerky drumbeats and oscillating noises synonymous with the dubstep genre, while “Drip” pays homage to the late 1990s jungle music scene with its intricate drum patterns.
The album kicks off with the vibrant groove of “Glory,” featuring a distorted bassline and a gospel-inspired chorus that beckons the listener to sing along. Tracks like “Monsters” offer introspective lyricism, with confessions of self-doubt couched in heavy rock instrumentation. The chorus serves as a rallying cry, culminating in a distorted breakdown that adds a raw intensity to the song. Conversely, “Hummingbird” showcases a more subdued side of the band, with a restrained approach to volume that allows the delicate nuances of the music to shine through.
In essence, “Parasites & Butterflies” presents Nova Twins at the peak of their musical evolution, merging diverse influences into a cohesive sonic tapestry that defies genre conventions. While the album’s production may initially overwhelm listeners with its sheer intensity, repeated listens unveil the intricacies of the music, showcasing the band’s innovative spirit and boundary-pushing creativity. With “Parasites & Butterflies,” Nova Twins have solidified their status as genre-bending trailblazers, carving out a unique niche in the ever-evolving landscape of contemporary music.