Nonstop to Cairo makes a triumphant return with their latest single, “Million Dollar Space,” offering a taste of their forthcoming album, KAI. The band, led by frontman August Harris and guitarist Nick Diamond, showcases a fully-formed musical vision that positions them as one of the most promising projects in the indie music scene.
The release of “Million Dollar Space” is tinged with a sense of tragedy, as trumpet player/keyboardist Kevin Anand Itwaru passed away before the single’s recording. The band considers both the single and the upcoming album a tribute to their fallen friend, with the album title bearing Itwaru’s initials. Despite the grief, Nonstop to Cairo’s “Million Dollar Space” doesn’t convey a downbeat or dispirited tone.
The track is characterized by a strong groove that beckons listeners to return for more. While the band is proficient in hip-hop, ska, and funk, the latter dominates “Million Dollar Space.” The groove and tight interplay between the musicians take precedence, with Diamond’s guitar contributing sparks to the overall sound and complementing Harris’s vocals seamlessly.
Nonstop to Cairo exhibits tight songwriting that maintains the listener’s attention from start to finish. The track avoids extended instrumental breaks, ensuring a laser-sharp focus throughout. The stellar production adds a punch to the song without succumbing to the common pitfalls of the “loudness wars” prevalent in modern productions. Instead, there’s a discernible sense of artistry and restraint evident throughout the track.
Clocking in at the right length, “Million Dollar Space” never overstays its welcome, leaving listeners eager for more. Brass plays a vital role in the band’s musical identity, and this holds true in the song, with exceptional horn playing, particularly shining in the second half.
Diamond’s potent guitar playing, paired with forceful keyboards, contributes to the track’s richness. His inventive approach, infusing recognizable tropes with an individual spin, is a key element of the band’s success. Nonstop to Cairo may share common reference points with their musical predecessors, but they imprint a decisively personal stamp on the familiar, enticing listeners to keep coming back.
After a hiatus, Nonstop to Cairo’s “Million Dollar Space” marks their authoritative return. The song is not only enjoyable and danceable but also musically substantive, standing up to repeated listens. With this release, Nonstop to Cairo delivers a standout single deserving of all the success coming its way.
