brakence Drifts Into the Solitary World of "cbd"

image

Photo:  A.T. Etzweiler

Whether or not we like to acknowledge it, we all know what it's like to have dark thoughts of loneliness and isolation creep into our heads and cloud our minds. In stark contrast to the inherent difficulty of admitting these intense feelings, 18-year-old artist and producer brakence unabashedly opens up about the challenging emotions that occasionally drift into focus.

On his track, "cbd," brakence experiments with taboo subject matter while still maintaining a playful and innovative sound. Despite the difficulty of articulating the emotions that permeate his waking and sleeping hours, the anti-pop artist showcases his deeply personal yet universal ability to depict an honest and unflinching account of young adulthood. The essence of the song is captured best in the chorus, "No one cares for me / Except me / I'm chilling by death." His voice echoes throughout each verse, allowing the listener to fully reflect on his relentless honesty through his emotionally palpable lyrics.  

brakence has mastered the art of conveying refreshingly raw and candid subject matter in a novel way, and it is part of what makes him stand leagues ahead of his nearest cohorts. At such a tender age, brakence demonstrates his artistry by dissecting difficult topics in a palatable way that allows his audience to remember that ultimately they are not alone.  

Watch the  "cbd" video below:

Related Articles

Genevieve Stokes Returns Home in Hiding Places

Genevieve Stokes Returns Home in Hiding Places

July 10, 2026 Genevieve Stokes’ third album, Hiding Places was written and recorded in Stokes’ parents’ garage, a decision made in hopes of coming back to herself. It’s clear that in visiting her past, Stokes is now at her most assured.
Author: Chancey Stefanos
pop
Magi Merlin’s debut album recognizes that we’re all powerhouses in the making

Magi Merlin’s debut album recognizes that we’re all powerhouses in the making

July 10, 2026 The Montreal-based artist’s album has been in the making for the last 4 years, and serves as a 12-track exploration of human multifacetedness, womanhood and the constant process of becoming.
Author: Daniela Waizel Rule
pop
R&B
Anna Margo's Swings EP is Emotional Whiplash Embodied [Q&A]

Anna Margo's Swings EP is Emotional Whiplash Embodied [Q&A]

July 10, 2026 After a debut EP collabing with Timabland, Anna Margo is forging her own path.
Author: DJ Connor