Kenny Koughs makes alt music hit home
We see the word “alternative” get thrown around a lot nowadays. It might be a convenient way of grouping things together that don’t really make sense as one sound. But Kenny Koughs shines within this space exactly because of this no-label factor, experimenting with different sounds to create songs that stick with you because of how personal they feel.
Since 2020, he’s moved through all types of beats and layering, but the vulnerability has stayed. The cinematic visuals only heighten the effect. Just look at “Euphoric” (dir. Kenny, Dilim, Diamond, Khalifah). It’s unsettling as he stares into your soul while he delivers off-kilter raps. The beat erratically flips from DnB to trap; the haze surrounds you but you still bop your head - that’s what makes it memorable.
His recent single pack “OD’d On Revenge” has to be spotlighted. It features raw emotions, a Jaydes vibe. Distorted, muddy chords show the double-edged sword of revenge, and it feels dangerous because of how real it is.
To start things off, “pain’s desire” hits with chaotic visuals that transport you to where he is. You’re on an empty road in the dark, trying to escape, but the feeling doesn’t leave you. Across the pack, the distortion keeps coming, that take this pain away line comes up repeatedly, and the weight just sits on your chest.
Then comes “needs equivalent exchange” - a bouncy, dark indie feel with the same mood. The layering in the background gives it a slowly disintegrating kind of feel. It’s like the sea of the shoegaze instrumentals is pulling you in, but his soothing vocals keep you afloat as you realise you’re not alone.
If you’re looking to experience a world of rocky emotions, check out “OD’d on Revenge” out now! Love y’all.
Myra | Dec 30, 2025