[Sovarasma #33] Xoculd Yumngokzit #6

[Sovarasma #33] Xoculd Yumngokzit #6 Sept 15, 2023 19:09:52 GMT 1 Kinoshita!, TitleTheNon, and 1 more like this

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Post by uhsting on Sept 15, 2023 19:09:52 GMT 1

15 September 2023

Xoculd Yumngokzit #6

Xoculd Yumngokzit #6 features 10 entries of a diverse range of genres. Contrary to previous editions, this edition only has 1 round. There are 2 categories in Xoculd Yumngokzit, Topio and Hamus. In short, Topio entries utilise the entirety of the length of the song to depict a breathtaking soundscape through different sounds, which are best to be enjoyed in full. Meanwhile, Hamus entries capture the listener's attention through a memorable hook of a few seconds using a creative combination of lyrics, instrumentation and vocals. You may read the wiki page to understand the functionality of the national selection here.

Voting

In this round, voters are invited to give points to every entry using the Fantasia points system (12//10//8//7//6//5//4//3//2//1). They are advised to listen to all entries in full. To access the voting, please refer to the big red box below.

VOTE HERE

The entry with the most points will represent Sovarasma at the 33rd edition of the Fantasia Contest.

Deadline: 23 September 2023, 23:59 BST

About the songs

Warning: The introduction of entries uses absolute formatting, hence it may not work properly on mobile or small screens. Please adjust where necessary.

Topio #1

Eric Whitacre, Voces8 "All Seems Beautiful to Me"

I first knew Eric Whitacre when I was in my secondary school choir. We sang "Leonardo Dreams Of His Flying Machine" for a local music competition. I was mesmerised by the modern chords and their progression. Altogether, Eric has created stunning harmonies in many of his works. When Eric came to Hong Kong, I got tickets to his concert and even managed to have a photo with him! Great memories! "All Seems Beautiful to Me" does not deviate from Eric's usual musical style, showcasing spectacular harmonies in a cappella. Voces8 is invited to work on a new album with him, and this song is Eric's latest work.

Hamus #1

COLET "DON FEDERICO"

"DON FEDERICO" is a fun and catchy song. It is about emancipation from the patriarchy. This reminds me a lot about Rigoberta Bandini. It also has the "eureka" moment at the end where the instrumentation amps up a notch.

Topio #2

Sílvia Pérez Cruz, Liliana Herrero "Toda la vida, un día - Mov.4: El Peso"

"Toda la vida, un día - Mov.4: El Peso" is a hauntingly beautiful song, further illustrated by its marvellous music video. I really love the rawness in Liliana's vocal, creating a nice contrast to Sílvia's softer vocals. The instrumentation is rather simple, but it is effective and conveys the message well. It demands attention.

Hamus #2

Shady Lady "SLAY"

"SLAY" is a fun song. Shady Lady delivers all the campness and certainly did not disappoint as the title suggests (~~Bonnie McKee got outsold I fear~~). I love the buildup to a chaotic instrumental drop especially. Of course the spanking sound in the middle is a highlight too which unfortunately I couldn't show in the recap alongside the drop.

Topio #3

Guinevere "Setting Of The Sun"

"Setting Of The Sun" is an atmospheric song, laced with beautiful strings. I love the structure of the song, where the airy and soft vocals take the lead, then comes the beautiful strings ensemble at the end. This is best enjoyed in full.

Hamus #3

The Album Leaf ft. Saro "You Are"

"You Are" is therapeutic and beautiful. The instrumental drop is one of the most elegant moments I've ever come across and

Saro delivered the message through his tender vocals. The music video complements the song nicely by showing a fabulous dance between two people.

Topio #4

Cora Novoa ft. Bryte "Gogo Gaga"

"Gogo Gaga" is a thunderous song. Cora Novoa unleashes strong bass which gives tremendous vigour to the song. On top of that comes Bryte's energetic rap. Put together you have a song which will tear down the dancefloor.

Hamus #4

Regen C. "Lìhn"

"Lìhn" is one of the most alternative songs in Hong Kong for a while. I love the incorporation of traditional Chinese instruments with modern synths. The harmony is dissonant but is characteristic of Cantonese opera. There are also moments where the vocals are typical of those in Cantonese opera. I love the climax built in the end which is a great way to end this high-energy song.

Topio #5

Romy "Loveher"

"Loveher" is a lovely song from

Romy, part of the popular band The xx. She teams up with Fred again.. with a heartfelt track. The song is included in her latest album, which explores queer clubbing and 00s Eurodance. This song is a romantic song to Romy's girlfriend. I find it relatable as an introvert who is shy in seeking a relationship, which is a similar perspective of Romy.

Hamus #5

DEJA "One"

Finally, "One" is a banging upbeat song. It is filled with energy, especially during the drop. DEJA raps so confidently here and the dance drop really elevates the song. Different vocal styles are shown here and the contrasts in instrumentation have captivated me throughout.