Bringing powerful messages to the forefront, Paris Texas boldly stands out with their electrifying new single, ‘RökKOut.’
This week, the dynamic duo was announced as a supporting act for hip-hop sensation Tyler the Creator’s highly anticipated Chromakopia tour, a clear indicator that Paris Texas is riding a remarkable wave of momentum. Following the success of their explosive debut album Mid Air, the alternative hip-hop group is seizing the chance to showcase their distinct sound to a broader audience. In keeping with the innovation present in their debut album, their latest single RökKOut explores an array of iconic sounds, skillfully fused together with vibrant guitar riffs and unpredictable loops. The title, complete with eye-catching umlauts, suggests a track that defies conventional boundaries while being deeply aware of the indulgent energy that characterizes modern hip-hop.
From the very first notes, the undeniable swagger of Felix and Louie Pastel takes center stage as the track syncopates to a snake-charming, Arabic-inspired beat that steadfastly pulses until the song’s final moments. At first, this looping rhythm might seem simplistic, but upon deeper listening, it reveals an impressively polished texture reminiscent of classic late-90s and early 2000s R&B hits. The duo’s lyrics are both skillful and rich, delving deep into the sybaritic allure of a life defined by luxury. Unashamedly, the song brings to light the complexities faced by those ensnared in the spotlight of fame. Lines such as “Life a maze, I’m amazed that I made it through” encapsulate the thoughtful reflections nestled within the track, while other phrases dizzily dart around, occasionally lacking impact. Though there are moments where the lyrics may seem predictable or muffled, Paris Texas remains dedicated to dismantling stereotypes through clever wordplay. Masterfully weaving hypnotic beats, they emerge as artisans of traditional hip-hop elements, brilliantly crafting a unique soundscape.
In stark contrast to the raw, abrasive energy of their earlier 2023 single ‘Panic,’ this new release bathes the listener in softer and more luxurious sonic experiences. Their clever punchlines strike a balance between hedonism and intelligence, a characteristic that has consistently defined their style. In RökKOut, Louie Pastel and Felix embrace a more nuanced approach, demonstrating their ability to tone down the rough edges while still delivering a captivating performance. Toward the end of the track, Felix taps into a raw vulnerability, reflecting on his personal struggles amidst the façade of fame. Painful introspections about the toll fame exacts on both body and soul—“every drop of pain,” “my ears smokin,” “veins feel like they ‘bout to pop,” “my skin boilin’,” and “more blood than sweat and tears”—illustrate the visceral turmoil experienced by those grappling with stardom. The latter sections of the track markedly enhance its overall essence, diverging from the pulsating energy introduced at the outset.
Where Paris Texas will ultimately journey from this point remains uncertain; like their enigmatic identities, forecasting their next move proves challenging. While this single may not represent a groundbreaking shift in their trajectory, it undeniably serves as a ticket to an exhilarating and pleasurable destination.
Words by Josh Mabbutt
Interview with Felix and Louie Pastel of Paris Texas
Editor: Thank you both for joining us today! You’ve just released your electrifying new single, “RökKOut.” Can you tell us what inspired the song and how it fits into your overall sound?
Felix: Thank you for having us! “RökKOut” is really an exploration of different musical influences. We wanted to create something that felt fresh and vibrant while still being rooted in what we love about hip-hop and R&B. The use of the Arabic-inspired beat really pushes the boundaries we’re always trying to explore.
Louie: Exactly! We wanted to combine elements that might seem disparate at first but ultimately come together to create a unique sound. With that iconic guitar riff and the looping structure, we aimed for something that engages listeners on multiple levels.
Editor: You’ve just been announced as a supporting act for Tyler, the Creator’s upcoming Chromakopia tour. How does that feel for you both, and what do you hope to bring to the tour?
Felix: It’s honestly a dream come true! Tyler’s artistry and innovation have always inspired us. We want to bring our distinct sound and energy to his audiences, showcasing what we have to offer.
Louie: Yes, we are incredibly excited about this opportunity. It’s a chance to connect with new fans and share our experience of the complex lifestyles we touch on in our music.
Editor: Speaking of complex lifestyles, your lyrics delve deep into the allure and challenges of fame. What message are you hoping to convey with your songwriting?
Felix: We want to shine a light on both the glamour and the struggles of fame. Lines like “Life a maze, I’m amazed that I made it through” reflect a sense of resilience. It’s vital to communicate that it’s not just about the glitz; there’s depth and reflection involved.
Louie: Touching on that, while we aim for this sybaritic allure in our music, we also want listeners to engage with the deeper narratives we present. Art is multifaceted, and we hope to provide that in our tracks.
Editor: Lastly, what’s next for Paris Texas? Any hints about what you’re working on after “RökKOut”?
Felix: We’re always writing and exploring new sounds, so expect more singles that push our creative boundaries. We’ve also been thinking about where we want to take our live performances on tour—maybe incorporating some visual storytelling.
Louie: Absolutely! We’re excited about what’s to come. Thanks for having us, and we can’t wait for everyone to experience what we’ve been working on!
Editor: Thank you, Felix and Louie! We look forward to seeing you on tour and hearing more of your unique sound.
Ng the versatility and depth of our music. It’s a great opportunity to connect with new fans and share our story.
Louie: Absolutely! We’re excited to vibe off Tyler’s energy and contribute our own flavor to the mix. We hope to create an experience that leaves a lasting impression and resonates with everyone in the audience.
Editor: “RökKOut” seems to delve into the complexities of fame and luxury. Can you elaborate on the themes explored in the song and how they reflect your personal experiences?
Felix: Definitely. The song captures that hedonistic allure that comes with fame but also addresses the darker side—the internal struggles that often go unnoticed. Lines like “Life a maze, I’m amazed that I made it through” really speak to the whirlwind of emotions we experience.
Louie: And those reflections often come from our own lives. We pour our vulnerabilities into our music because it’s important to us that listeners understand the duality of success and the challenges that come with it. We want to be real and relatable.
Editor: Your sonic evolution is fascinating—especially the shift from the raw energy of “Panic” to the more nuanced approach in “RökKOut.” How do you see your sound evolving in the future?
Felix: It’s all about growth, experimentation, and pushing boundaries. Each track we produce is a reflection of where we’re at in that moment. We’re always open to exploring new sounds and influences, so who knows what’s next?
Louie: Exactly! We aim to keep things fresh and keep our audience guessing. One thing’s for sure: we’ll continue to be authentic in our expression, no matter where the music takes us.
Editor: It sounds like the journey ahead is going to be exciting! Any final thoughts you’d like to share with your fans?
Felix: Just a huge thank you for all the support! We’re thrilled for what’s to come and can’t wait for everyone to experience “RökKOut” as well as the tour with Tyler.
Louie: Yes, we appreciate every single one of you! Stay tuned because there’s so much more music and experiences on the way.
Editor: Thank you, Felix and Louie! It’s been a pleasure discussing your music and upcoming tour. We look forward to seeing you on stage!
Felix and Louie: Thank you!
