‘…the future of the alternative scene, fusing R’n’B with metal better than anybody ever has, and perhaps ever will…’
Baltimore trio nightlife emerged all the way back in 2021, and have been changing the alternative game ever since. The band assign themselves the “soul-punk” genre label, it does not quite do the sheer expansiveness of their sound justice; they toy with ideas from post-hardcore, R’n’B, house and metalcore to produce something wickedly vibrant and distinct. Whilst last year was notably quiet for the band, 2026 has been anything but, and their fourth single of the year might be their best yet.
‘2deep’ brings on board Virginia post-hardcore cult favourites pulses. for one of the spiciest performances of the year. Leaning heavily into their R’n’B stylings, this is a glossy, densely layered affair, slick synths shifting into swaggering guitar chugs atop of a cruising beat that oozes unparalleled coolness. It is not simply a homage to the roots of nightlife, but the sound of a band taking those ideas and evolving upon it for a modern alternative audience.
Hansel Romero offers a brilliantly soulful vocal performance, whilst their mixing elevates the track to an all-consuming, atmospheric experience that rewards multiple listens. pulses. offer a brilliantly fun guest appearance, their rapped verse retaining their sharp yet whimsical wit yet melding perfectly with the unadulterated sensuality of the track.
Since their inception, nobody has been doing it like nightlife, and it is undoubtably the case that this will be the case for time immemorial. They are the future of the alternative scene, fusing R’n’B with metal better than anybody ever has, and perhaps ever will; it is no surprise such a slick and refreshing sound comes from queer musicians of colour, and perhaps that is why the alternative scene still hesitates to gravitate towards nightlife.
When they finally get sick of four white dudes dressed in black, performing 0-1-0 riffs with trap beats, they might just realise that the future of alternative is bright, the future of alternative is black, and the future of alternative is nightlife.
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