The song “HUMAN” starts with a notion that is both simple and hard to ignore — what does it really mean to be human? TaniA Kyllikki takes that question and turns it into a moving techno-house track which has real emotional depth without sacrificing its sense of movement. The song unexpectedly came about when Kyllikki thought about the division and hostility she had experienced online, and this eventually developed into lyrics and a melody that she showed to her husband and producer, Rynellton. It is appropriate that this spontaneous origin should be the case since “HUMAN” has an immediate impression rather than seeming overworked. Kyllikki varies her vocals between intimate sections, strong passages with a soulful influence, powerful belts and detailed runs, so that the vocal performance in the song can be vulnerable in one moment and commanding in the next.
The way that Rynellton has produced the track imparts it with a completely new kind of energy. Hypnotic rhythms, atmospheric textures and pulsating electronic beats form a techno-house base beneath Kyllikki’s gospel and soul influence, and it is this contrast which causes the song to stand out. Rather than let the electronic production dominate the message, the two elements combine: the beat provides the song with physical impetus while Kyllikki’s voice draws the listener back to the words. The repeated questions concerning humanity and living in harmony take on a nearly mantra-like quality, and the song’s themes of compassion, equality, judgement and difference give the danceable production a more substantial basis to carry. It is music that is meant to move the body yet at the same time leaves the mind something to think about.
There is also a significant aspect in the way the word “HUMAN” has been put together. The song was made by two musicians who worked on it in their bedroom studio and thus turns a personal and creative experience into a more extensive musical statement, with Kyllikki and Rynellton combining their skills as vocalist, songwriter and producer. Since it is the first release to precede *FREE-SPIRITED*, it shows another side of Kyllikki’s artistic abilities while remaining linked to the emotional honesty that is present in her work. “HUMAN” has no need to complicate its main message; instead, its strength lies in taking a general question and surrounding it with a production style that sounds bold, modern and vibrant. What started out as an unplanned extra track eventually becomes a strong illustration of how two artists can turn a moment of reflection into something designed for connection.
TaniA Kyllikki transforms a question concerning humanity into an anthem driven by pulsing rhythms, with soul, techno and empathy all matching the same beat.
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