Devansh - Trust (Single)
Following his debut album To Feel Free May 2023 on Hourglass Records, Trust is Devansh’s latest single released 13th December 2023. Trust is a powerful song which explores the journey of being a musician and creative, questioning the notion of ‘success’, and trusting the process and your ability. The auspicious timing aligns with the wind-down of the year, leading into when people rethink and reassess their journey and what they want to reject or renew.
With crisp lo-fi drums and funky basslines, Trust embodies a vibe of smooth alternative R&B with Devansh's unique, expansive style which transports listeners through a journey of dynamic contrasts. The single features regular collaborators Rudi Creswick (bass for Tom Misch, Berwyn, Obongjayar), Jamie Houghton (drums for Alfa Mist, Tom Misch, Jorja Smith), and co-production from Chris Hyson (Snowpoet, Jordan Rakei, Frida Touray). With such a rich tapestry of harmonious talent, Trust has been featured on Spotify’s popular playlists All New Indie, Melomania, and Indie Brandneu.
Credit: @sebjjp
In Devansh’s own words regarding the single, “To constantly grind and have creative output- is that really the only way? Because this path can't just be about numbers and results and streams- the process of making music itself has to be fulfilling. The lyrics talk about the advice I've been given- that happiness and success come with time and to push through and [I'd] find these questions fade along the way- yet so far I'm not feeling any clarity. Trust evokes some of my inspirations in Jordan Rakei, Tame Impala, and Sam Evian, but in my own synth-forward and psychedelia-tinged style.”
Originally from New York City, Devansh is a compelling vocalist and producer, currently based in London- from one hub of creative immersion to another. With multi-instrument ability, after years of co-producing and playing for other bands, Devansh released his debut solo album To Feel Free in May 2023. Its lead single What We Don't See was co-produced by the brilliant Jordan Rakei, which aired on BBC Radio London. It received rave review from music discovery website, record label and podcast Stereofox, a great reception for a break-out artist. Devansh articulately combines his international upbringing and multi-influenced background into a sound which blends together elements of jazz, modern funk, psychedelic soul and indie pop- Devansh is not one to pigeon-hole or dilute the visceral nature of pure creation. Building traction by performing with some of London’s top musicians with a regular band, audiences can expect great live sets and sensory satisfaction.
Album To Feel Free touches on relatable themes ranging from the collective solitude lockdown presented, complicated dynamics of love, to being stuck in a consuming work grind which dampens seeing the beauty of life around you. Not one to shy away from challenging and emotive topics, the range displays the richness and depth of Devansh’s experience and talent, while still offering joy through expression. The project inspires shaking off inhibitions and advocates being truly present yet simultaneously highlights the difficulty of doing so as a brown man in today’s society on a global scale. Trust follows this vibrant thread of musical conversation, weaving a relationship of meaningful connection with its audience. With over 30,000 monthly listeners on Spotify, their singles have also been placed on Apple Music’s New in Alternative and New in R&B playlists. Devansh is currently working on his next EP for a 2024 release.
