Fresh from their Aqrxvst EP earlier this year, Pretty V and Archy Marshall team up for the new single ‘52’.
Words: Liam Cattermole (@liam_cattermole)
Pretty V, formerly known at V7Backin2007, has been releasing music for a while. Lurking in the deepest crevices of streaming services, the enigma’s prolific nature isn’t to be taken lightly, and in 2023 alone, he’s added seven projects of varying lengths to his name.
Although it’s uncertain whether ‘52’ is indicative of another substantial body of work, the track features Archy Marshall’s whispered vocals. Previously collaborating with UK rapper Jadasea on their Aqrxvst project, which came out at the beginning of 2023, the pair nail a Dean Blunt-esque sound that’s both dreamy and endearing.
Revamping trip-hop around elements of indie and stripped-back soul, ‘52’ whisps around your ears in a meditative fashion. The misty, guitar-led instrumental accommodates both artists’ drifty deliveries and howling harmonies.
After such a collaborative streak, we can only hope that Pretty V and Marshall return more often on tracks. Maybe on a new Archy Marshall or King Krule album? Who knows! But we’ll be patiently waiting to see what they do next.