Mysterious maverick Oscar Key Sung makes a striking return with "Simple Luv"

The result is a swelling concoction of palpable feeling that is all encompassing. “I would not describe the No Disguise EP as a concept album, but there is a narrative built into it,” shares Key Sung of his latest project, "As the collection of tracks began to take form, a clear arc emerged for me."

As the first song on the EP, "Simple Luv" takes inspiration from the "fool’s tale", Key Sung – or the protagonist of 'The Fool' – beginning from nothing and imagining a love and life as though they are truly yet to live. "It is implicit that I have been through a lot, but the voice I speak with is idealistic and hopeful as if starting at a checkpoint with a clean slate."

Opening with a stirring string refrain before segueing into those aforementioned pulsing R&B beats, "Simple Luv" feels familiar yet warmly portent, where Key Sung’s understated croons draw listeners into his narrative. To call it a clean slate is certainly apt, for "Simple Luv" touches upon new territory for Key Sung, the track eschewing the bold, club ready electronica of "Shallow" and the bassy notes of "HANDS" for a more melodic sound.

“I perceive this as the beginning of the story. An intention is set. ‘The Fool’ reflects on what they imagine might make them happy, and on what they desire,” explains Key Sung. “They imagine what exists beyond the confines of their isolation, [and they imagine] a final moment where, as they die, their finest memories will play back in a kaleidoscopic flash.

“What they long for is far from complex. They simply want to have life affirming experiences in the form of interaction. Simple luv. To hold, and to be held.”