“O.C.D. (Milenia)” by Meno Air and Luke Aylward is a striking debut that blends raw emotion with an eclectic sonic palette. This indie dance track, born from the collaboration between Bristol plumber Tom Baker (Meno Air) and Stroud guitar teacher Luke Aylward, pulses with a downtempo beat and vibrant synths, layered with gritty, experimental noise rock textures. The song’s ambient opening draws you in, while Tom’s distorted, semi-spoken vocals—delivered with an unpolished charm—carry a visceral honesty that’s hard to ignore. It’s not technically perfect, but that’s precisely its strength; the imperfections amplify its authenticity.
The track dives deep into the struggles of obsessive-compulsive disorder, with the haunting refrain “round and round” echoing the relentless cycle of intrusive thoughts. Tom’s personal storytelling shines through, transforming a heavy topic into something relatable and cathartic. Luke’s melodic guitar work adds a moody, energetic edge, balancing the weight of the lyrics with an uplifting vibe. Recorded in Tom’s humble home studio, the DIY spirit of this release only enhances its appeal.
In my opinion, “O.C.D. (Milenia)” is a refreshing surprise—a bold, genre-bending gem that doesn’t shy away from vulnerability. It’s the kind of song that lingers, both for its emotional depth and its quirky, unrefined brilliance. For a debut, it’s an impressive statement, and I’m excited to see where Meno Air and Luke take their sound next. This is music with soul, rough edges and all.
Listening to songs so you don’t have to! Just kidding :D, you totally should. Music blogger by day, nurse by night
