Panem’s artist page is HERE
Whilst there are many diverse and talented artists and songs in the NAS universe, there are certain tracks that stand above the rest. “Zeitgeist / Absolute Monopoly” by Panem is one such piece that exemplifies this distinction.
I remember when I first heard this track, shortly after joining NAS, and I was absolutely blown away. From the very first listen, the writing, performance, and production struck me as truly outstanding. The track begins with a compelling guitar introduction, immediately setting a solid foundation. As the song progresses, soaring harmony vocals join in, accompanied by lively, authentic drums, elevating the music to an even greater height.
The bass is deliberately held back until the chorus, and when it finally makes its entrance, it lifts the track once more. This approach demonstrates excellent production instincts—knowing precisely when to withhold and when to introduce key elements for maximum impact. The arrival of the bass is a perfect example of how restraint can enhance a song’s dynamic range.
Among all the exceptional performances on this track, the bass stands out most for me. The part is immaculately crafted and expertly played, fulfilling its essential role: anchoring the root of the track and driving the groove. The groove itself is infectious, yet just as you begin to settle into the song’s direction, it shifts into a breakdown section where the bass once again shines, maintaining momentum while adding depth.
The track is further elevated by beautifully executed harmony vocals, which soar above the instrumentation and breathe life into the lyrics. Although the song was released in 2021 and received critical acclaim at the time, its lyrics remain strikingly relevant to the world today, as if they were written only yesterday.
“Zeitgeist / Absolute Monopoly” is a prime example of songwriting and production at their finest. If you have not yet experienced this track, you are in for a real treat. I have since become a devoted fan of Panem and appreciate their many excellent songs, but this particular track is a true standout and deserves a place on everyone’s playlist.
This review was submitted by fellow NAS artist Franklin & Bell
Their Spotify Artist Page can be found HERE
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