“Take What You Need,” the latest single by Pangolin People, is dreamlike in all of its minimalist, indie rock glory. From the word ‘go,’ this track is all-around, wonderfully sedate in melody and vocals. Altogether, the listener is awash in a serene sound that produces a smooth dreamscape.
Pangolin People is the solo project of Belgian singer-songwriter, Nikki Roger, who is also the bassist for the rock band, Tien Ton Vuist. The light, indie pop rock sound of Roger’s solo venture represents a departure from Tien Ton Vuist’s garage rock vibe.
For starters, “Take What You Need” opens with a faint lo-fi, chill sound. However, it transitions into a broader, yet minimalist melody along the way. At no point is the listener overwhelmed with sonic theatrics. All of the melody is right there in front of you to take in without digging through any vast complexity. All of it blends together into one relaxing melody that flows naturally.
There are many elements that Roger employs to achieve this sound. Chief among them are the dreamy wa-wa guitar notes and hints of light percussion during each chorus. Both of which are more likely to knock the listener over with the force of a feather than that of a hammer. However, that is what makes this track so effective. During this song, the smaller things leave the largest footprints.
“Take What You Need” features Sander Sterkens from Belgian band, Geppetto & The Whales, on vocals. Sterkens proves to be a perfect vocal match for the smooth, cool melody on this track.
All in all, “Take What You Need” is a thoroughly enjoyable listen. Melodically, it puts the listener at ease with how trance-like it can sound at times. Roger’s Pangolin People project strikes the right chord with this latest single.
Written by Travis Boyer
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