In his latest EP, Could Have Been, The New Citizen Kane delivers a stunning exploration of emotion and atmosphere, effortlessly blending deep house, chillwave, and electronic elements. Following the sunlit nostalgia of his previous release, Endless Summer Serenade, this project dives into more introspective territory, creating a soundscape where rhythm and emotion coalesce into something truly special.
The EP opens with the title track, “Could Have Been,” a reflective piece that sets the tone with its poignant melodies and understated beats. The rhythm is steady but restrained, allowing the bassline to shine with a subtle groove that supports the haunting synths. The track exudes melancholy, with echoing vocal samples and airy textures capturing a sense of wistful longing. It’s a deep house anthem for introspection, perfect for late-night drives or quiet moments of self-reflection.
“Forget the World” shifts gears with a warm, inviting energy. Its pulsating bassline and sparkling synths create a celebratory atmosphere, transporting listeners to a place of pure escapism. The layered production is intricate but never overwhelming, maintaining a balance that feels effortless. The track’s rhythmic precision drives the song forward while the shimmering synth pads provide a dreamy counterpoint. It’s a masterclass in crafting a mood that is simultaneously euphoric and grounded.
“Tonight, Maybe” is another standout, leaning heavily into chillwave territory. The hazy synth textures wash over a downtempo beat, creating a sonic landscape that feels both intimate and expansive. The rhythm here is deliberately loose, almost languid, giving the track a contemplative quality that lingers long after it ends. The bassline is understated but effective, adding depth to the track’s ethereal quality.
The EP’s centerpiece, a dance cover of Coldplay’s “Talk,” reimagines the classic track through a deep house lens. The New Citizen Kane strips the original down to its emotional core, building it back up with pulsing bass, atmospheric synths, and a driving rhythm. The result is a track that feels both nostalgic and fresh, paying homage to the original while carving out its own identity.
“Chasing the Past” closes the EP on a somber note, with a minimalist approach to rhythm and instrumentation. The sparse beats and brooding bassline leave space for the synths to breathe, creating an almost cinematic atmosphere. It’s a meditative track that encapsulates the EP’s themes of longing and reflection, leaving listeners with a sense of unresolved beauty.
What sets Could Have Been apart is its ability to marry technical precision with emotional resonance. The rhythm throughout the EP is meticulously crafted, with every beat and bassline serving a purpose. The synth work is equally impressive, ranging from lush and expansive to minimal and restrained, always complementing the mood of each track.
The New Citizen Kane proves once again that he is a master of his craft, pushing the boundaries of electronic music while staying true to its emotional core. Could Have Been is not just an EP—it’s an experience, inviting listeners to lose themselves in its rich, evocative soundscapes. This is deep house at its finest, and we’re thrilled to spotlight it on our webzine.