Tropic – Breathe Again (ShiShi Remix) Review

New York City-based duo Tropic debut single, “Breathe Again”, was released again as a remix by ShiShi on October 26th. The ShiShi-remixed single brings a unique hype-up sound, groovy breakdowns, rattling snare drums, trumpets, and a relaxing electronic bridge like no other. The duo is based on the intriguing fusion of R&B singer/songwriter Jo-B Sebastian and electronic DJ/producer Phuse (Jarel Hill) that creates a nostalgic, yet forward-thinking sound.

During the beginning of the song, Jo-B’s vocals brought more of a Soulection-type vibe. He tends to quietly express his lyrics with precise breath tones and strong cadences and manages to bring a declaration of how he wants to be free. Throughout the original song (as well as the remix), what Jo-B means is that he wants to be free by mentioning how he wants to “breathe again.” He explains to the certain party that he has no interest in pursuing something with that intended party, which digs down well with the production.

As far as the production goes, Phuse and ShiShi’s mash-up kind of resembles an ideal sound that is similar to other R&B house producers like SG Lewis, Monte Booker, and Masego. Both members of Tropic explain ShiShi’s role within the remixed song and how the collaboration came together:

“Our good friend and electronic powerhouse, ShiShi, jumps in and remixes our debut single, “Breathe Again”, breathing new life into one of the first songs we worked on together as a duo. ShiShi infuses our dark, funky heartbeat with his own uplifting, jazzy touch, transforming a brooding breakup song into an uplifting, soulful anthem. We’re so excited to be collaborating with such an awesome musician and to be sharing a collaboration that has come together as natural as when we started working together two years ago. Watch this space, there’s definitely more to come!”