Deep Listening: Nikes by Frank Ocean

Our second Deep Listening revisits a Frank Ocean cult classic.

Deep Listening is a new series in which The Vinyl Factory spins monumental albums and songs, both contemporary and classic, in the Devon Turnbull Listening Room at The Vinyl Factory: Reverb Exhibition in 180 Studios.

A meditative listening room created by New York artist Devon Turnbull and programmed by The Vinyl Factory, the space allows visitors to listen to music on a handmade, high-fidelity sound system. Its plush, minimalist interiors have enthralled visitors to The Vinyl Factory: Reverb exhibition and played host to events with The Blessed Madonna, Stephen O’Malley, and many more.

Our second entry into the series is Frank Ocean’s “Nikes” – the lead single from his 2016 album Blonde.

Blonde saw Ocean strip his style back to work with minimalist electronic production, ambient textures and tender guitar experimentation. “Nikes” explores the relationship between consumerism and love through dueling manipulated vocals and spaced out, slow production.

Blonde also spawned cult classic cuts like “White Ferrari” and “Ivy” and has been referenced as an influence by the likes of Lorde and Kendrick Lamar.

Listen to “Nikes”, played on the Devon Turnbull sound system, above.

The Vinyl Factory: Reverb runs until February 2 at 180 Studios. Book tickets online.