Stinkus releases debut album ’23’

Stinkus is the brand new artistic banner of Tyler Thompson who appears from the shadows of behind-the-scenes production work to claim the spotlight with his debut album 23. As a seasoned producer and songwriter, Tyler has lent his talents to various projects, including girlhouse and WILD, but it’s under the moniker Stinkus that he steps into the forefront as a solo artist.

First unveiling the new endeavour in February, Stinkus dropped the debut single “Not Like Dying,” which was quickly followed up by singles two and three with “I Am” and “Rodeo Mary.” Now the artist reveals the full-scope of the Stinkus sonic vision with the debut full-length record titled 23. Written, produced, mixed and mastered entirely by Tyler, the new album presents the perfect run through of the project across fourteen original songs.

The first time they’ve crafted something entirely by themselves, 23 captures a snapshot of an artist spreading their wings and taking flight, opening an exciting new chapter that’s sure to leave a lasting impression. When Tyler and his ex-fiancee of seven years broke up, it provided the creative spark and the album began to take shape. Using the project as a vehicle of emotional processing and expression, much of the writing serves as a cathartic release that’s at once personal and relatable. Eschewing the shiny pop productions that he’s worked on to date, with 23, Stinkus leans into a raw and intimate aesthetic.

Opened by previously released single “I Am,” the gentle crash of drums and soft clean guitar tones form a hazy indie rock scene capped by subtle synth texture. Threading whimsical lyricism via smooth melodies, Stinkus crafts a laid back sound that builds with catchy vocalisations and warm brass tones that lazily snake through the arrangement.

“Spiral” follows with delicate acoustic guitar lines before the shuffle of drums and colourful instrumental layers flow to form a mellow jam. Processed vocal layers spin memorable leads before grooving rhythms take over as the song twists through contrasting vibes before an explosive finale of driving electric guitars and belted vocal lines.

The lilting guitar strums on “Rodeo Mary” set up the smokey indie rock sound as the marching punch of strums and lively vocals collide to craft an anthemic sound that’s at once charming and energising. Served up in a concise ninety second dose, it’s a slick bop that sees Stinkus inject his catchy songwriting into a unique arrangement.

Title track “23” lays down a breezy sound of blissful melodic flutters riding the bounce of shuffling drums, pulsing bass notes and light guitar tones. Subtly infectious vocal work ensures a superb indie experience that perfectly captures the artist’s knack for crafting accessible music in a unique way.

Other highlights on the record include songs like debut single “Not Like Dying” with its soft, atmospheric intro giving way to a stellar pop rock sound. Swaying rhythms and colourful synth tones add to his trademark guitar-driven sound to deliver a psychedelic-tinged sound that builds in energy throughout.

“Something to eat” pairs airy vocal lines and heartfelt lyrical writing with a delicate arrangement of punchy drums, gentle guitar work and the vibrant hues of synth leads. Closing the album with “Summer Day,” soft piano notes cast a dreamy listening experience that drifts with hushed archival vocal samples to create an emotive ambient piece for a soothing and reflective final outing on an incredible debut album from Stinkus.

Listen to 23 below