TaniA Kyllikki’s “HUMAN” follows an ambitious course by combining soulful, gospel-influenced vocals with techno-house production to produce a piece that is both emotionally straightforward and physically involving. The contrast is achieved by means of Kyllikki’s close-voiced sections, her powerful belts and her intricate vocal runs, against Rynellton’s hypnotic rhythms, atmospheric textures and pulsating electronic energy. Instead of letting one part of the sound take dominance, the production allows the vocal expression to carry the song’s main question while at the same time keeping the forward movement linked to its electronic base.
Blend of techno-house and soul is what gives the song “HUMAN” its special character; the electronic rhythms give it a sense of forward motion, whereas the gospel-soul style of vocal performance adds warmth and emotional depth to the record. As the song progresses, the interaction between the voice and the production becomes more and more powerful, the atmospheric textures and rhythmic energy providing room for Kyllikki’s vocal range to move from a state of controlled intimacy to stronger and more expansive passages. The way the song is arranged supports its message without covering it up, ensuring that the main question stays with the listener throughout.
The writing of the song is just as intentional: it starts by acknowledging the ways in which people are different before moving on to the common ground that lies underneath those differences. The repeated question “What does it mean to be human?” together with the appeal for people to “live in harmony” give the song a reflective character without making it into a lecture. The issues of race, judgement, equality, compassion and the labels which divide people are directly included in the song, while references to humility, empathy, love and prayer serve to guide its emotional tone. The outcome is a message that encourages listeners to think about the way they see one another rather than merely blaming each other.
“HUMAN” is successful since the album’s musical style and its message are aligned. It is a dance-oriented record that poses a serious question, combining the energy of techno-house with soulful expression in order to examine what people have in common even though they are separated by differences. Arising as a response to hostility and division, the track opts for connection and ends by focusing on compassion, equality, humility and harmony. “HUMAN” thus serves as a deliberate, soul-filled statement in the techno-house genre: it is accessible enough to be danced to, yet at the same time reflective enough to leave the main question with the listener after the rhythm has stopped.
