ONE YEAR "CHRONICLES OF ONE YEAR" REVIEW
Album art for “Chronicles of ONE YEAR” by ONE YEAR
Using larger-than-life imagery, heartfelt lyricism, and pointed self-reflection, ONE YEAR emerges from the depths of Soundcloud to manifest further success with The Chronicles of ONE YEAR.
Running 12 tracks long and 26 minutes in length, The Chronicles of ONE YEAR listens like a fast-paced joy ride riddled with pop elements and unique production quirks. Although this project was recorded in the Twin Cities suburbs, 18-year-old Carter Tusa effectively used the power of the internet to facilitate remote collaboration amidst the global pandemic, working with other notable artists, collectives, and producers online. Releasing many of these tracks individually to critical acclaim on Soundcloud in 2019, ONE YEAR decided to branch out and release the singles on Spotify under the umbrella of a larger project.
When people first press play, listeners are introduced to “Sackboy,” an extremely catchy track packed with personality. Collaborator dltzk’s unique production complements ONE YEAR’s glossy vocals to create a dynamic listening experience. As glass shatters and shotguns blaze in the background, ONE YEAR chants about illusions and impending fame. Using playful similes and candid assertions, ONE YEAR’s adversaries are also taunted and ridiculed. This track is an extremely lively listen and makes you want to root for the protagonist as they conquer the world. In our interview, Carter told Melodic Noise that ONE YEAR's songs are structured like personal biographies, and I believe this track perfectly achieves this. After just two minutes, the track ends as quickly as it started, sweeping listeners into the larger project.
In “Bypass”, ONE YEAR’s glossy vocals continue to impress. The catchy chorus on this track entices listeners to replay the song over and over. Upbeat production develops a contrast between the sound and lyrical themes, creating an interesting dichotomy. While producer 4am samples viral memes and upbeat instruments, ONE YEAR explores insecurities, discusses toxic relationships, and delivers some scathing self-reflection. This track greatly showcases Carter’s unique ability to maintain lyrical authenticity while still crafting an intricate story for listeners to enjoy. I personally love the hook on this track and believe it’s one of the catchiest songs I’ve heard in a while.
Although it might be difficult to pinpoint this project’s direct influences upon first listen, ONE YEAR gives credit to their involvement in the online “digicore” music scene. Being only defined by the artists involved, “digicore” is largely known for its internet influences, remote relationships, and young talent. Most “digicore” artists are 18 or younger and have effectively harnessed the power of the internet to bend the music industry at will. Due to their success online, many have already signed record deals or built management teams to promote their independent releases. All of these artists, including ONE YEAR, are expected to blow up once their online communities can connect in person. I am greatly looking forward to seeing how these artists incorporate their online personas into their live performances.
Similar to other “digicore” hits, “NASDAQ” is packed with reflection and angst. On this track, ONE YEAR continues to manifest future success with an emotional vocal performance. As soft piano meets abrasive bass, ONE YEAR contrasts confrontational one-liners with personal feelings. This songwriting style creates connections between ONE YEAR’s thoughts and experiences, making the song feel extremely genuine. When I listened to the ending of this track for the first time, it honestly made me tear up. ONE YEAR’s lyricism always shines through; the heartfelt one-liners always compliment whichever tracks they land on.
As the tracklist continues, a few of ONE YEAR’s digicore collaborators make guest appearances. In “CARHARTT” and “Facelift”, d0llywood1 delivers two impressive vocal performances, and saturn hops on “PSYCHE” to write a verse. These features feel extremely curated and unique to the songs they compliment and give listeners a sneak peek into the digital music scene ONE YEAR is involved in.
This project keeps me engaged from start to finish. The beats, features, and hooks are dynamic and engaging, and many different flows and rhythmic structures are experimented with. The future looks extremely bright for ONE YEAR. Make sure to stream THE CHRONICLES OF ONE YEAR, and watch out for Carter’s new EP Pink Sunset that arrives on June 6th!
“Chronicles of ONE YEAR” can be found wherever you stream your music:
Below is an excerpt from Melodic Noise’s interview with ONE YEAR. Check out the full interview on our Patreon.
(Melodic Noise) How did you start music? When did your musical career start? How has it changed your goals now? What inspired you to begin your career as a musician and vocalist?
(ONE YEAR) Easy. I’ve been on Soundcloud since middle school. I’d just put headphones on and listen to music during my 40 minute bus ride to school. The first artist that really made me want to buy a mic and DAW was David Shawty. When I listened to a few of their songs, I was like “I’ve never heard shit like this before”. It was so creative and outside the box... it made me want to go do shit of my own. Obviously David’s not the only inspiration; music has been a part of my life since I was a little kid. Some other big ones are Corbin and Bobby Raps. Those two are from Minnesota, shout outs to them. Allan Kingdom as well, they’re from Minnesota as well. Tyler, The Creator was also a big inspiration back then because it was the mainstream. Those are probably my biggest ones.
(MN) What do you like to do in Minnesota when you aren’t making music?
(OY) When my car is working, I drive it a lot. I’m very into cars. I got a new Saturn, and this thing is a piece of work! I love it. It’s treating me so good. The car culture here exists. Some people are clowns and ruin our reputation, but it is what it is. I still enjoy cars on my own.
(MN) Where do your lines come to you? Where do you write? What experiences induce these lyrics?
(OY) Really depends. I used to be at work and think of a catchy flow or song in my head and would write it in my notes for later or record memos while pushing carts at Target. If I’m at my computer, I pull up my notepad and just let the beat play. When I think about lyrics, I’ll have a set theme I’m going for, but it takes itself anywhere.
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Review and interview by: Sam Theiste, Writer @SamTheiste
Edited by: Eric Martin, Writer/Assistant Editor @eamartin95
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