In the world of indie music, where raw emotion and genuine storytelling often take center stage, BLOCKED’s latest EP, “no worries,” emerges as a testament to this ethos. Released on November 17th, 2023, the four-track EP spans approximately 13 minutes, showcasing BLOCKED’s evolving artistry and distinct sound. Each track – “i don’t mind,” “whole,” “afterglow,” and “nicest red” – contributes to an auditory journey marked by introspection, warmth, and nostalgia.
The EP commences with “i don’t mind,” setting a strong precedent with its warm guitar tones and BLOCKED’s signature vocal style. This opening track is characterized by a clean mix, emitting a calming aura that gently draws listeners into the EP’s embrace. The song exemplifies BLOCKED’s knack for blending soothing melodies with heartfelt lyrics, a theme that resonates throughout the EP.
As we progress to “whole,” there’s a noticeable shift in energy. The track retains the indie essence while introducing a more dynamic soundscape. The warmth of the guitar continues, complemented by a well-arranged set of drums, adding a punchy rhythm to the mix. Notably, the guitar’s energy at the 1:37 mark is a highlight, demonstrating BLOCKED’s ability to create memorable musical moments that resonate beyond the song.
“afterglow” then takes the listener on a slower, more contemplative path. Here, BLOCKED’s vocals harmonize beautifully with the background keys and pads, creating a soundscape that’s reminiscent of the iconic “Twin Peaks” intro. The nostalgic feel of this track adds depth to the EP, showcasing BLOCKED’s versatility in handling different instrumental elements to convey varied emotional tones.
The EP culminates with “nicest red,” a track that masterfully synthesizes elements from its predecessors. BLOCKED’s soft vocals, the guitar, and keys work in unison to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. This track acts as a closure, uniting the diverse musical themes explored in the EP – from guitar and keys to drums – into a coherent and satisfying finale.
Behind the music is Belinda, the Singaporean artist from Melbourne, Australia, known professionally as BLOCKED. Her journey into music was fueled by a passion for “emo” bands during her formative years. This influence is evident in her music, which often features emotional intensity and a raw, authentic expression of her experiences. BLOCKED’s self-taught skills, nurtured through online tutorials and covering songs on YouTube, laid the groundwork for her unique sound, a fusion of emo, indie, and acoustic genres.
An essential figure in the creation of ‘no worries’ is Tom Hitchcock, known on Instagram as @tomdahomie. His involvement in the EP was pivotal, not only in terms of production, mixing, and mastering but also in expanding the creative horizons of BLOCKED and the music. Tom introduced new techniques and methods, such as the use of MIDIs and innovative vocal styles, which played a crucial role in shaping the EP’s direction. His guidance and expertise helped elevate the music to new heights, adding depth and sophistication to the project. Tom’s contribution was not just technical; it was transformative, enabling the EP to reach its full potential and resonate more profoundly with its audience.
BLOCKED’s music transcends the realm of mere entertainment; it is a profound emotional outlet, both for the artist herself and for her listeners. This aspect of her artistry is vividly apparent in her latest EP, “no worries.” Each track within this EP is a journey through the landscape of human emotion, where BLOCKED navigates her feelings and experiences with a raw authenticity that resonates deeply with her audience. Her songs are not just melodies and lyrics; they are confessions, reflections, and conversations.
The way she articulates her emotions in tracks like “i don’t mind” and “afterglow” showcases her ability to transform personal experiences into universal truths, allowing listeners to find pieces of themselves within her music. This connection is not incidental; it’s a deliberate endeavor by BLOCKED to create a space of solace and understanding, a safe harbor where her audience can come to terms with their own emotions.
In “no worries,” BLOCKED’s commitment to emotional sincerity and connection is more evident than ever. The EP serves as a microcosm of her larger musical journey, embodying her evolution as an artist who is unafraid to delve into the depths of her soul. Songs like “whole” and “nicest red” are more than just tracks on an EP; they are manifestations of BLOCKED’s intent to reach out to her audience, offering them a hand to hold as they navigate their own emotional landscapes.
Her music, in essence, becomes a companion in the solitude of one’s thoughts, offering reassurance that one is not alone in their feelings. This EP is a clear reflection of BLOCKED’s ultimate goal as an artist: to not just create music, but to create empathy, understanding, and a shared emotional experience. Through “no worries,” BLOCKED invites her listeners to embark on a journey with her, one that is as cathartic as it is enlightening, reaffirming her role not just as a musician, but as a fellow traveler in the complex journey of human emotions.
Drawing inspiration from artists like Phoebe Bridgers, Soccer Mommy, and Clairo, BLOCKED has forged a sound that is distinctly her own. Her music is not just a form of self-expression; it’s an invitation for listeners to partake in her deeply personal and cathartic journey.
“no worries” is available for listening on Spotify here, offering a glimpse into BLOCKED’s soulful artistry. The EP serves as a reminder of the power of music in expressing and validating our most intense emotions, and BLOCKED’s mastery in crafting songs that resonate on a profound level. This latest release is a testament to her growth as an artist and her commitment to sharing her emotional journey with the world.
Join the journey of BLOCKED’s evocative music and connect with her on Spotify, YouTube, and Instagram for the latest updates and behind-the-scenes glimpses into her artistry.
