Album of the Week #8
Dial in to Chloe Hotline
Discussing the Cincinnati-based superstar’s debut, +NSTYNCT.
Chloe Hotline’s latest album recently landed on my radar. Since following her career for the past few months, I was really excited to hear what she had in store: and have not been disappointed.
+NSTYNCT is Chloe’s debut album, following a string of singles, EPs, and a previous full-length project in 2020, Cynthia. Chock full of eclectic features, varied instrumentals, and engaging hooks, it’s a moody, and moving record that has an iridescent sheen to it. It’s a chance to showcase her versatility as an artist and explore her various influences which range from diamond pop artists like the late SOPHIE, to hip hop stars such as Kevin Abstract and Gucci Mane.
Ripe with tales of heartbreak and love, +NSTYNCT is almost bittersweet in its delivery. It encompasses the themes of lost romance and a desire to leave your hometown along with the biting cold of Michigan’s winter; as a current Torontonian, I am no stranger to lonely winter nights. It’s reminiscent of the memories made up North, and the desire to escape its frigid grasp. Tracks like Beach House and Nova really emphasize Chloe’s intent on moving towards greener pastures, and propel this album forward.
What really solidifies the flow of this record is its instrumentation. Chloe’s incredible use of strings, synthesizer and orchestral percussion pair really well together, especially with the guests she brings on throughout the album. It is clear she is demonstrating her flexibility as a producer, and delving deep into certain genres and themes I only hope she hammers down in the future.
The string melodies on Tallulah paired with thundering drums (akin to timpani) create this pumping and sudden rhythm. Featuring Titmouse’s caramelized verse, this makes for a sickly-sweet and charismatic song. Chloe’s use of string sections is also exemplified on Potent, which ends with this sparse, grandiose melody overtop spoken word. Very unexpected but a really nice change of pace on this ever-shifting album.
Furthermore, Chloe’s use of synthesizers and keys, especially on songs like Lost in the Sun and Avoid are really creative. Acting almost as an interlude. The latter end of Avoid is very futuristic and almost cyberpunk in nature with this smokey and ominous haze that surrounds its sound. I could definitely see this bumping in a neon-clad club aeons into the future.
Regarding guest-stars, +NSTYNCT keeps with the theme of exploration, bringing in a collection of well-placed, varied artists. Chloe Hotline has a gift when it comes to perfectly showcasing features. Madden 08 is a great example of this, where Keyshawn and Jowon Briggs trade-off with Chloe’s hook punctuating each of their verses. The bassline is also really funky on this song, driving it along.
Lynden Rook’s ripping guitar solo on Sum1 is also a great feature, adding this roaring emotive conclusion. It's technical and sweeping with an airy delivery that really fits the vibe of the track; effectively ethereal.
Some of my favourite songs on this album include Michigan (for how upbeat and catchy it is), Sum1, and Madden08. Nova is a beautiful way to close this record, especially with twinkling piano motifs over the sad violin line. The ending reminds me somewhat of The Cribs’ song Be Safe, but with a lot less punk and a lot more style.
+NSTYNCT is a strong debut album that shows Chloe Hotline’s versatility as a producer, rapper, and songwriter. Her hooks are catchy, beats engrossing and guest artists as multi-faceted as she is. Flowing strings and punchy orchestral themes really add something to this record, and the feelings it conveys are just as potent. Chloe continues to remain on my radar and I look forward to seeing where she’ll be taking things next; it’s really only up from here.
If you haven’t already, dial into Chloe Hotline. She is not one to be slept on.
Listen to and purchase the album on Bandcamp here.
This is a weekly series I’m doing to help me think more critically about the music I listen to and get better at writing about it. These selections are suggestions from friends and random recommendations, with a focus on newer releases. Any and all feedback/suggestions/artists you want me to cover are welcome and appreciated!
