NYIKO examines toxic masculinity and male fragility on “Call The Boys” - (9/4/20)
NYIKO, photo by Niles Gregory
LA-based artist, songwriter and producer NYIKO releases a new single and announces his upcoming LP Honesty.
Keeping in line with his recent slate of nostalgic synth-pop, NYIKO pays homage to his influences while pushing sonic and thematic boundaries. His latest single “Call The Boys” is a proclamation to dismantle toxic masculinity wrapped up in shimming guitars and confident post-punk production.
According to NYIKO, the song was written in reaction to the slew of mass-shootings oftentimes carried out by young white men. “I wanted to take a hard look at the outdated notions of manhood in American society and how they negatively impact everyone. It was important for me to reflect on my own blind spots and to help redefine manliness for young men.” NYIKO confidently croons “It’s the quiet moments / that we choose to ignore / and the space it creates is innate suffering In these boys,” suggesting that the disregard for mental health is often the cause for issues later on. “I believe that much of the violence in our country is a manifestation of internal suffering and insecurity in men. Setting an example of masculinity that champions empathy, self-love, and respect could transform the way our society functions” he explains.
The track features guitar from longtime collaborator Niles Gregory along with a guest appearance from Vagabon touring bassist, Maggie Toth. With this latest release, we learn that NYIKO has plans to unveil a full-length album under the title Honesty, which will include the three previously released singles from this year.
“Call The Boys” is an urgent message on masculinity delivered in cinematic synth-pop form.
“Call The Boys” is out September 4th via Trailing Twelve and 100% of Bandcamp digital proceeds will be donated to Big Brothers Big Sisters LA.
Take a listen below.
Written, Recorded, Performed, and Mixed by Nyiko Beguin, Trailing Twelve (ASCAP)
Mastered By Steve Kitch at Audiomaster UK
© & ℗ 2020 Trailing Twelve Records. All Rights Reserved. Unauthorized Copying, Reproduction, Hiring, Lending, Public Performance, And Broadcasting Strictly Prohibited.
NYIKO - Call The Boys
TTRS-037
Released 4 September 2020
Length: 03:57
BIO
NYIKO
NYIKO (“nee-koh”) is an American singer, songwriter, record producer, label owner, visual artist, and actor based out of Los Angeles, California. They have released synth-pop, new wave, post-punk, and hip-hop projects with Disney, Amazon, Sony/ATV, Heard Well, Trailing Twelve, and more.