Noya Rao - “Owls”

SXSW 2020 - OEB Score: 7; Popularity Index: 6

Pairs Well With…Toro y Moi, Mndsgn, Phox

Noya Rao are all-in on their unique fusion sound, combining chillwave R&B with jazz-infused movement for a sound equally intricate and comfortable. Their latest is Owls, an EP that finds the soulful unit embracing a more pop-oriented sound than their tripped-out debut full-length Icaros. “Talk” adds a house beat and funky melodies to Noya Rao’s airy soundscapes, a song that grooves in a modern, new wave space, while the title track is a mysterious lounge track with subtly proggy melodies complexly playing throughout. Nayo Rao are unapologetically experimental in their songwriting, but are consistently smooth track to track, a delicate balance performed masterly. (Kevin McStravick)