Picture this: you’re vibing on a sun-soaked beach, the bass hits deep, and synthetic flutes weave through the air like a summer breeze. That’s the energy Jarreau Vandal and Amazone bring with their electrifying new single, “Heartless,” a track that’s already turning heads after their sizzling Glastonbury and Outro Fest sets. This Surinamese-Dutch duo has cooked up a bold fusion of contemporary R&B, Afrobeats, and South African 3-step that’s as infectious as it is innovative. Ready to dive into this genre-blending gem? Let’s break it down.
A Fresh Fusion of Sound and Soul
“Heartless” is a masterclass in blending cultures and sounds. Jarreau Vandal, a Dutch producer known for his genre-defying style, teams up with rising vocal star Amazone to create a track that’s equal parts club banger and soulful storytelling. The song rides a gqom-inspired 3-step beat—think deep, subby basslines that rumble in your chest, paired with sharp vocal ad-libs and synthetic flutes that give it a futuristic edge. Add in earthy Latin guitar riffs and smooth R&B chords, and you’ve got a sound that’s as versatile as it is vibrant. It’s the kind of track that feels just as at home in a strobe-lit basement rave as it does blasting from a beachside speaker.
The inspiration behind “Heartless” is as captivating as the music itself. Vandal describes it as capturing the rush of infatuation after meeting someone abroad—fireworks, fleeting moments, and the ache of distance. He pulls from a sample of legendary Moroccan band Oudaden, weaving it into South African-inspired 3-step rhythms for a sound that’s never been done quite like this. Amazone, whose radiant vocals light up the track, adds her own spin: “It’s about wearing a mask to guard your heart—until someone comes along who makes you drop it.” Her performance is bright, sassy, and soulful, perfectly complementing the track’s rhythmic storytelling.
Meet the Artists: Jarreau Vandal and Amazone
Jarreau Vandal is no stranger to pushing boundaries. Raised in a musical family in Amsterdam—with a producer grandfather and parents who danced in the city’s club scene—he grew up surrounded by gospel, soul, jazz, and house. His early days playing drums in a church band laid the foundation for his eclectic sound. Vandal’s made waves with edits like Rihanna’s “Work” and remixes for artists like Dua Lipa and Mahalia, racking up millions of streams. But he’s not just a producer anymore—he’s evolving into a full-fledged album artist. His 2020 EP Suburb Superhero: The Villain Within featured heavyweights like Kojey Radical and Gaidaa, while his recent single “Ganga Riddim” showcased live Surinamese drums. “Heartless” is another bold step in his journey, blending global sounds with his signature good-vibes energy.
Amazone, meanwhile, is a name you’ll want to remember. Pronounced “ah-mah-zon-eh,” this Surinamese-Dutch singer-songwriter is a rising star in the African diaspora music scene. Her debut EP Who Is She? is a five-track burst of Afrohouse, R&B, neo-soul, and Afrobeats, infused with talking drums and summer-ready vibes. Her mixed background shines through in her music, and “Heartless” is a perfect showcase of her ability to fuse cultures and genres into something fresh and irresistible. With her bold voice and vibrant energy, she’s quickly carving out a space as one of the most exciting new voices in contemporary R&B and Afrobeats.
Why “Heartless” Stands Out
What makes “Heartless” so special is its ability to bridge worlds. The track taps into the growing popularity of Afro-fusion, a genre that’s been dominating playlists with its blend of African rhythms and global influences. The Moroccan Oudaden sample paired with South African 3-step beats creates a sound that’s both rooted and futuristic, while Amazone’s vocals add an emotional depth that resonates with listeners. It’s the kind of song that feels like a journey—whether you’re dancing in a club or reflecting on a fleeting romance. In a music industry where Afrobeats and Afro-fusion are surging (think Burna Boy and Tems topping charts), “Heartless” feels like a timely addition to the conversation, blending cultural heritage with modern production.
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Final Thoughts
“Heartless” is a testament to the power of collaboration and cultural fusion. Jarreau Vandal and Amazone have created something that’s not just a song but an experience—one that captures the thrill of connection and the beauty of blending diverse influences. It’s a track that’ll have you hitting replay, whether you’re vibing at a festival or chilling by the beach. What do you think of this Surinamese-Dutch duo’s latest banger? Drop your thoughts in the comments and let’s keep the conversation going!
