words by Chloe Williams

Dominic Fike knows how to perfect an album release. From releasing snippets months in advance to performing joyous sets at summer festivals like Lollapalooza, fans have been kept gripped and waiting until now. “Rocket” presents a timeless, delicate track that offers a view into the truths and realisations Fike is putting out in the world, but through the haze of sounds and energies, synths and feelings. 

Fike produces stress-free tracks that bleed into each other soundlessly, enlightening the listeners and often forcing a sense of awareness upon those who desire it. “14 minutes” proved this last year, so it is unquestionable as to why everyone has been waiting for this moment. If you are looking for a deep dive into whatever it is you are trying to make sense of in life, this is the place to come. Or it could be seen as the opposite, indulging individuals with the opportunity to escape. Either way, listening to the mixtape launches you into a trance-like world that causes no need for an escape route, for it is not needed. Though, the 26-minute length does make this difficult as the music moves along swiftly but discreetly, attentive in its nature, each track caressing the time they have in the light. 

In July of 2023, Sunburn graced our streaming services, offering anthem after anthem of summer giddiness and grace. The suncream smell, the sea breeze, the loose clothes – you name it, and you could hear it. Feel it. Every beat of every song. The range of tempos, the new face of his musical brand, the creative intent behind the album, it all stood out from the rest. And this new mixtape combines this perfect energy with the sound of “14 minutes”, creating a free-flowing rhythm that may reflect on his current lifestyle, the slowing and the settling. In no means is Fike not delivering as he should, and that is the best part; his talent as an artist is only evolving and maturing in a way that is genuine and real, unlike many in the modern music industry. It is no secret that Fike has faced various challenges in his career, but it is clear these have not stopped him from continuing as one does. 

Unreleased songs are also having their moment of fame, with “Epilogue” and “David Lyons” having previous snippets and therefore making fans question their release. As an artist, Fike is known to keep some music undercover, and this still continues despite the songs Fike has given fans. Unfortunately, a fan-favourite known as “White Keys” has failed to see its release with the mixtape, but it is most important to expect the unexpected, especially that involving Dominic Fike. Appropriately on-topic, the first three songs were released last week alongside the album announcement, with “All Hands on Deck” being the opening filled with realistic expectations and, most prominently, the act of being present. The need to, the vow to, for both yourself and others. 

While we digest the relatively new information of Fike’s son, Rocket, we see a new take on the mixtape, through Fike’s personal interpretation of fatherhood, anything and everything in-between, and its relevance in a larger picture of life -past, present and future combined. It can be seen as an embodiment of documentation, even more valuable through a mixtape, a special form of art. To hear the favourites of Fike’s, his teams, and his fans is to collectively feel even more attached, admiring the honesty throughout. 

There is too much left to say involving this art form, but most of all is the happiness it brings people. Yes, we have analysed its serious tones, but that is not all there is to the songs. They are fun. They are mellow. They are the perfect late August release to carry with us for the long months ahead. “Sandman” picks up the album with a more uplifting tone, a playful mix of layers and wishes, followed by “Great Pretender” as it moves fluently through lyrics and story. Boredom is an afterthought, as every song feels full and purposeful.

Even away from the mixtape, Fike is still not done delivering. Geezer, the musical duo consisting of himself and Kevin Abstract, are to perform at Camp Gnaw Carnival 2025. “Blush” is the upcoming release, with singles “Geezer” and “Doggy” as the first impressions. Let’s just say the sky is the limit when it comes to best friends and the bonding over music production, with these two as no exception. Any fan of Fike would approve of Geezer.

Rocket has come after a great run of projects from Fike, and this release has held the performance strike in a safety net. It’s comfortable and reflective, entrancing and distinctive. It is clear Fike is capable of various formats of production and style, certainly proving he has a lot more to give. One tip in listening to the mixtape: listen on a beach, as the sun shines and your skin warms. I promise you, it will be an ethereal experience, and one I will personally never forget. Go listen to “Rocket” on all streaming platforms now. 

image from @dominicfike