Single Review: Nosaj Thing Channels A Spellbinding Midnight Glow In ‘For The Light’

Nosaj Thing | For The Light (single) | LuckyMe

Release Date: August 26th, 2020

American producer Jason Chung, known under his recording moniker Nosaj Thing, has worked with some of the biggest names in the music industry since his breakout into the electronic realm in the mid 2000’s. Working on remixes for iconic artists such as Flying Lotus, Daedelus, Radiohead and collaborating with the likes of Toro y Moi, Blonde Redhead’s Kazu Makino and most recently, ambient-electronic musician Julianna Barwick on her album ‘Healing Is A Miracle‘; Chung has managed to keep a relatively low profile throughout the years, despite the stars he’s earned along the way with his impeccable skill and highly dedicated fanbase.

In the beginning of his career, Nosaj Thing would definitely be considered a considerable influence to the development of the now umbrella term of chillwave along with his influence in IDM, with his signature atmospheric trip-hop-esque beats – the tranquil minimalism of instrumental hip-hop. The artist’s general low profile with his personal releases (outside of touring and production work with collaborators) has left fans eagerly awaiting new music since his previous album ‘Parallels’ from 2017. However with a surprise return – Nosaj Thing has released a single titled ‘For The Light’ via LuckyMe.

‘For The Light’ emerges with a brooding atmosphere; immediately hypnotising one as the bold, driven beat kicks in – a smooth yet mysterious plucked double bass-style captures a warm aura despite its after hours, shadow-cloaked tone. The minimalist repetition of a glimmering firefly synthesizer melody loops over the atmospheric midnight ambience. The simplistic feel begins to progress as harmonic textures make their appearance in the form of rising and falling slides atop distant, electronic howls.

‘For The Light’ is mesmerizingly fit for both a calming catharsis, as well as a moveable groove. The track showcases Nosaj Thing’s ability to adapt and experiment, with his signature style still shining through within a track that is intriguingly unpredictable.

Rating: 6 / 10

Feature Image: Nosaj Thing by Atiba Jefferson