Nukuluk’s "Hand on the Hilt" is an immersive haze of gritty, experimental sound

The captivatingly chaotic, DIY sound of the experimental group Nukuluk has set them apart as one of London’s most exciting new experimental groups. Formed during the height of the pandemic, the diverse sounds of the group is thanks in large part to each member’s unique musical backgrounds. Drummer Louis studied sound design while playing in an art-rock band prior to Nukuluk, while rapper Monika has always been involved in the rap scene. With guitarist Luke self-taught and grazed on punk-inflected bands, and Mateo on bass, the eclectic sound comes to life.

Still, to the band, Nukuluk is not just about experimenting with different genres, but about getting their ideas across too. Tackling different genres, seamlessly molding them into an innovative sound of their own, well, that’s just the icing on the cake. “The difference between genres, instrumentation, and production doesn’t matter so much,” says drummer Louis. “It’s all in the same world – something that’s true.”

Nukuluk’s 2023 EP SUPERGLUE was met with critical acclaim from the experimental scene thanks to its prismatic display of genres and general intensity. Out via colorburst records, their latest single "Hand on the Hilt" has just the same power beneath it. This particular single tackles the multifaceted nature of relationships, reflecting ideas of paranoia, mystery, yearning, and fantasy. Produced using a Roland JDXA synth, given to singer and guitarist Syd by his late father, as well as wax cylinder recording techniques, the track meshes hip-hop with splashes of punk and dark electronica too.

"This single marks a return to our digital, melancholic rap sound after focusing on live elements, bridging the gap between the two. The lyrics delve into trepidation, paranoia, connection, and the coldness of the city, we see the song as noir sci-fi thriller with contrasting environment with many twists and turns. The combination of analogue synths, clean digital drums, and the historic quality of wax cylinder phonograph recording creates a production landscape filled with ambiguity, ethereality, and contrast,” the group said of the track. The result is a truly imaginative single full of rich sonic textures, a multicolored collage in shades of jet black and icy blue.

Looking beyond "Hand on the Hilt", Nukuluk has a full mixtape set for release sometime later this year. For fans of anything from ambient to metal, there’s something in this group’s discography for any fan of leftfield music. Dip your toe in the water with this latest single to see if this kaleidoscopic sound is for you.