Just Natalie and the collective hot beige released their collaborative single “TicTacToe” yesterday, September 7th. It stands out as a soul-filled narrative about a budding relationship and getting through a back-and-forth phase.
“TicTacToe” is an indie r&b/hip-hop track with collaboration in a way that truly brings it to life. The backing track has that lo-fi beat feel, but the way that it’s produced and mixed gives it a distinct pop, and each sound jumps out distinctly. However, it’s the vocals that truly bring this piece to life. Just Natalie’s chorus vocals are smooth and full, as they bend and riff around, hitting every intricacy with power. Then indie artist Barrett Staples jumps in with more hip-hop-centered vocals. Though they’re rapped, there’s a smooth delivery to them, and they find a way to hold a captivating melody. This track has a lot of soul to it, and it delivers a captivating groove. It feels sultry in all the right ways.
“TicTacToe” is a track that creatively captures being in love, but with a back-and-forth like it’s a game. The lyrics open up with, “We’re playing tic-tac-toe / Xs and Os / Still tryna’ get that three in a row.” Basically, it sounds like it’s about a budding relationship where there’s an allure and pull, but the voices in the track are trying to solidify a win for said relationship. Staples has vocals that suggest his voice’s role wants to prove their love and stay in the other’s life. However, Just Natalie’s vocals suggest there is a bit of a hesitance and worry that it’s simply a game being played with them. However, her verse at the end of the track seems to cue into the idea that her voice wants the other to come closer so she can fall into the special little moments.
This release is gorgeously delivered and produced, and its narrative feels clear in a cinematic way. It’s brand new, so catch it while it’s hot!
Written by Sage Plapp
Where to find Just Natalie:
Where to find hot beige
