Coming off of the success of his track “Better Than Him” from his EP Before We Crash, Houston’s Dende delivers his first full-length album in two years titled ’95 Civic.
The project delivers lovelorn lyrics about a breakup and all of the feelings that arose as a result of it. With pensive songwriting and savory vocals, Dende uses his new project as a journal that comprises his unfiltered thoughts and emotions.
Starting at the front end of the project, “Block Me” is a clear standout from the project. The hook on this track is literal silk with Dende playing with three multiple octaves that all weave in and out of each other’s grasp.
Next, “Nightmares” is painfully honest. On the hook, Dende croons “It’s been harder for me/Than it may seem, girl of my dreams/Left and it feel like a nightmare to me”. The Texas native really lets down his guard and allows the listener to pick at the scaps of his heart like vultures.
Leading toward the end of the project, “Ultimatum” features some of Dende‘s best flows to date. The peaks and valleys in his delivery trade in and out for hopscotch-y flows that end with a crescendo at the end of each verse which really stands out.
Finally, “Part-Time Lover” is a necessary toxic ballad that still carries the lovelorn feel of the album. I’m here for sappy love songs but I appreciate that he changed things up a bit.
Not every aspect of a breakup is boo hoo-ey and having sexual escapades with random women post-breakup isn’t uncommon. Lilly Aviana‘s backing on the chorus furthers the song’s disguise as a gushy love song.
Be sure to be on the lookout for more from Dende and check out ’95 Civic below!
