Mizoram’s indie sensation Rnzx have released “Messy,” their sophomore album that masterfully blends traditional Mizo sounds with modern indie elements. Released on June 28, 2024, this 10-track collection showcases the artistic growth of siblings Rina and Zeli Khawlhring since their 2021 debut “Amateur” and subsequent EP. Crafted entirely in their home studio, “Messy” represents a year-long exploration of diverse genres, reflecting the duo’s eclectic musical influences. Rnzx expands to a quintet for their dynamic live shows, delivering energetic and highly entertaining shows. With their latest release Rnzx not only solidifies their place in Mizoram’s music landscape but also demonstrates their ability to push creative boundaries and evolve as artists.
The album opens with “How to Love You,” a romantically charged track that explores the overwhelming emotions of new love. The song’s mellow yet upbeat composition features soft vocals gliding over diverse percussion and tinkling melodies. A melodious guitar solo adds depth to the track. With its refreshing and magical atmosphere, “How to Love You” sets a captivating tone for the album.
The album’s second track, “Oh Boy,” introduces a groovy, jazz-infused atmosphere. Opening with a pompous flair, the song explores the beauty of a boy and the joy of shared moments. Echoing vocals complement the honest, tension-filled lyrics that perfectly align with the song’s rhythm. The track’s catchy melody and push-pull dynamics in the lyrics create an irresistible musical experience.
“What You Like,” the third track, maintains the groovy atmosphere established by “Oh Boy.” The English lyrics showcase the duo’s poetic prowess, while the infectious rhythm and melody create an overall appealing sound. This sensuous composition seamlessly blends various musical elements, resulting in a cohesive experience. The song’s mood expertly balances the euphoria of intoxication with the intimacy of shared moments.
“Lover,” the fourth track, offers a soothing romantic experience that’s sure to bring a smile on your face. The song’s excellent composition stands out as a refreshing take on the love song genre. Filled with yearning and longing, “Lover” encompasses all the elements of a top-tier romantic track. The music skillfully blends jazzy tones with rock influences, particularly towards the end, resulting in a phenomenal mix.
The fifth track, “Huiha! Heiha,” marks a shift in the album’s tone. Sung in Mizo, this playful composition features trumpets and soothing vocals set against a bossa nova rhythm. The song’s music video is worth watching for the refreshing scenery of Aizawl.
“Him and Her,” the sixth track, opens with a somewhat haunting tone that expresses the melancholy of love. Rina and Zeli’s smooth, effortless vocals create a fantasy atmosphere, offering a safe space for lovers. The song’s emotional depth and variations touch the heart, maintaining a slow pace throughout. The music and lyrics blend seamlessly, with the phrase “you are all that I need” creating a soothing respite. The composition skillfully balances emotional intensity with gentle musical elements. As the song concludes, you’ll hear a peaceful harmonica melody that adds a final layer of tranquillity to the track.
The seventh track, “French,” charms with its electronic elements and jazzy pop fusion. Guitar riffs intertwine with playful sounds, creating a captivating auditory experience. The lyrics explore the romantic gesture of learning a language for a loved one. Despite its brief two-minute runtime, “French” showcases Rnzx’s ability to deliver a wealth of musical ideas into a concise package.
“Save Me Boss,” the eighth track, opens with hushed vocals before transforming into a magical soundscape. You’ll hear reverb-laden experimentation alongside Rnzx’s masterful jazz expertise which is seemingly ingrained in the siblings’ musical DNA. The song evokes the ambiance of late-night urban bars, blending innocent yet authentic lyrics with layered instrumentation.
“In This Life,” the ninth track, takes an upbeat turn with poetic lyrics exploring life, existence, and love. The composition balances pain with empathy, reaching the album’s musical peak. Its grand arrangement creates a powerful emotional impact and you’ll likely get goosebumps if you are fully immersed in the album.
The album’s closing track, “Don’t Love Me Anymore,” beautifully encapsulates the bittersweet nature of fading love. While maintaining a consistent tempo, the song’s emotional resonance varies throughout, creating a unique listening experience. The calming musical style evokes both a sense of farewell and the promise of new beginnings. Acoustic elements shine before transitioning into a more rock and pop-influenced sound midway through the track. “Don’t Love Me Anymore” defies easy categorization, blending elements from various musical genres to create a truly distinctive sound. This final track serves as a fitting conclusion to an album that consistently pushes creative boundaries and demonstrates Rnzx’s artistic evolution.
