Austin introduces his debut album, CHALANT, with “Retribution,” an upbeat alternative R&B track that puts guitar and groove at the centre of its sound. It has a lively feel, with a genre-blending approach that brings to mind the creative styles of Steve Lacy and mk.gee while allowing Austin to develop his own musical direction.
Behind the energy of “Retribution” is a much more personal story connected to the making of CHALANT. Much of the record was written in a small cabin during a difficult period in Austin’s life, as he began coming to terms with the declining health of his grandmother, someone he shared a very close bond with. She has since passed away, making the project an especially meaningful part of his musical journey.
That background gives the album a deeper emotional context. Although “Retribution” is presented as an upbeat, guitar-forward release, it also introduces a project shaped by personal change, difficult moments and the process of accepting things we cannot control.
The contrast between the track’s energetic musical direction and the personal circumstances surrounding the album makes this release worth paying attention to. It shows how music can carry different feelings at once, bringing together an engaging sound and a story rooted in real life.
As the focus track from Austin’s debut album, “Retribution” offers a strong introduction to CHALANT and the personal experiences that helped shape it.
