River Boy - “I Never Knew”

SXSW 2020 - OEB Score: 7; Popularity Index: 1

Pairs Well With…James Blake, Jack Garratt, Willow Beats

Australian artist River Boy shared his first solo track this year beyond his role as half of ambient pop duo Willow Beats, capturing a sound not too unlike his former unit, though “I Never Knew” dips more into hip hop/R&B territory within an expressive, emotive approach. The track stands out for its sonic experimentation, employing vocal loops and trip hop atmopherics to give River Boy’s music true depth and resonance. Produced with textured patience, “I Never Knew” bubbles with a bit of pop energy even within the dreamy existence of a downtempo groove. (Kevin McStravick)