Brian Johnson continues to redefine the scope of contemporary EDM through his polished, yet breathable stylistic approach. Nicknamed ‘The Kid,’ Johnson’s experience within the genre proved as much wondrous as it was hands-on, particularly after having to put an unfortunate cap on a baseball career due to severe health ailments. Nonetheless, the New Mexico-bred, Los Angeles-based producer persevered.
Accumulating five years under his belt with the stage name TLUXX, Johnson’s ambition has been represented with a solid annual 50-show ethic, as well as growth of his Play It Forward charity, which assists local homeless youth.
TLUXX’s latest release this year is an anthemic, pop-oriented single, “We Weren’t Born to Lose.” The song is dedicated to the victims and survivors of the Route 91 Harvest Festival tragedy, which took place in September of last year. It is done in collaboration with vocalist Brett Pemberton, who is a survivor himself, and together, their lyrical perspective of a blood-curdling, high-risk escape carries much clout. The warm bass beats and synth pads work collectively in elevating Pemberton’s vocal tonality. While an interesting fit considering the heaviness of the subject matter, it maintains a calm and powerful stature throughout the instrumentation, as well as an encompassing assurance of triumph over chaos.
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