Up-and-coming teen artist Ned Dylan shows ample potential on “Life’s a Rave,” the well-rounded debut single from his forthcoming debut album.

“These days I feel so corrupted / Feels like the media’s even in my bedroom.” Insightful lyrics to say the least, sigh. “Life’s a Rave” marks the debut single from 17-year old Ned Dylan’s forthcoming debut album. Dylan may be an up-and-coming musician, but he’s definitely ‘been on the grind’, playing at the likes of Glastonbury, Bestival, BoomTown, Secret Garden Party, and Beautiful Days among others. He’s also received media coverage from a variety of sources, including American Songwriter, BBC News, and BBC Radio 2 among others.  There are few teens who have been this accomplished at such young age.

“Life’s a Rave” marks a collaboration between three highly-esteemed producers: Wizard (M.I.A./Wiley/Chemical Brothers/Chase & Status/Alabama 3), Gordon Raphael (the Strokes/Regina Spektor/Alabama 3) and Mike Freear (Slamboree). The ‘ear candy’ is legit; the record is dark, set in a minor key. The accompanying music video reflects the darker tilt of the song as well. Nice driving rhythms arrive at the beginning, giving the record a chamber-pop/symphonic rock vibe. Stylistically, Ned Dylan seems unconcerned with labels, hence why it’s not ‘cut and dry’ how to accurately categorize “Life’s a Rave.” The ambiguousness is a pro to say the least. Another stellar feature of the production are the strings, with violin and cello credited within the personnel.

Throughout “Life’s a Rave,” Dylan delivers assertive and passionate vocals. His energetic delivery is nothing short of #winning.  Add to that awesomeness dramatic lyrics on the first verse:

“We nearly had a conversation last night

But your phone interrupted

These days I feel so corrupted

Feels like the media’s even in my bedroom.”

Following the verse, Dylan serves up a catchy pre-hook.  The results are nothing short of infectious – easily getting instantly stuck in the head.

“Piano loops go over and over

As we beg to be saved

Jumping over and over

Ain’t life a rave.”

As for the hook, it’s simply, but incredibly catchy – “Life’s a rave.”

Final Thoughts 

If you haven’t added Ned Dylan to your list of must-hear musicians, well, you better jump right on that.  On “Life’s a Rave,” he showcases ample potential to be one of the next, big-time artists.  The record benefits from sick production, superb songwriting, and an energetic, well-rounded performance from Dylan himself.  Get hyped-up for Ned Dylan!

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Ned Dylan • Life’s a Rave – Single • Ned Dylan • Release: 10.12.18

Photo Credit: Ned Dylan