Insomnia Music with Taves

Music

Atlantan vocalist and producer Taves is behind the latest release on Harsh Riddims, a cassette-focused label that continues to serve up a dose of the unexpected.

Making their debut on the label in March with Akátá – a nine-tracker that blends elements of House, R&B, synthpop and jazz with beautiful, stirring vocals – Taves’ productions seek to explore their heritage, using music as a means of piecing together their background and processing tragic events gone by.

Across this release in particular, their lo-fi musings and heartfelt vocals pay homage to the femmes in their family, tipping the hat to those who’ve impacted their life and those who’ve suffered under failing systems. Following the release, we asked them to share some of the tracks that serve as a soundtrack to the twilight hours…

“Usually I tend to associate insomnia with negativity, which it rightfully should be with all the health problems tied to it but what’s a person to do when they can’t sleep? Sometimes it’s a window into my sexuality and thoughts about romance I otherwise wouldn’t have access to during normal hours. There’s something about nighttime that seems suspended in time; I figured rather than stress the night away, why not revel in its kinkiness?”

Buy Akátá.

LISTEN

James Blake - You're Too Precious

“YTP” is a new track I enjoy a lot. The lyrics sound like sweet nothings whispered at the oddest moment. “I’d take the hair in your food” has to be one of the sincerest (and grossest) lines I’ve heard/read in awhile.

James Blake - You're Too Precious

“YTP” is a new track I enjoy a lot. The lyrics sound like sweet nothings whispered at the oddest moment. “I’d take the hair in your food” has to be one of the sincerest (and grossest) lines I’ve heard/read in awhile.
Sade - Cherish The Day

Sade’s lyricism taught me how to appreciate life as it comes. Whether good or bad, love is always worth uplifting. I love that she never fails to point out how we can love better and stronger.
Prince - If I Was Your Girlfriend

This track both attracts and repulses me. Is this level of obsession endearing or creepy? Could lovers ever be that in sync? Should they? The movie it’s in may explain it. RIP Prince.
Solange - Stay Flo

I feel this song acknowledges the shame black femmes face for participating in the stripping industry their patrons openly exploit. Musically, I’m in love with how much the instrumentation resembles a lullaby programmed for a music box.
Amaarae - Like It

Before quarantine hit, I’d seek out spots bumping house, techno, dancehall, etc. during this time if I couldn’t sleep. I was usually found somewhere wining the night away with friends. Or by myself.