Melbourne-based producer and artist Craig Kemp, the creative force behind Mont Rose, has finally lifted the veil on his latest single, 'Occlude'. This powerful track, featuring the searing vocals of his longtime collaborator Kenny Berthelot, is more than just a new release; it's a testament to the emotional and creative journey of an artist. Written five years ago, 'Occlude' is a cathartic and unvarnished look at the internal conflicts that plague many creators: the tension between self-doubt and the pressing need for self-expression.
Unlike the more subdued sounds of previous Mont Rose releases, 'Occlude' takes a different, heavier approach. The track is built on a foundation of blistering synths and a propulsive, driving bassline, creating a thick sonic texture that feels both expansive and immediate. This wall of sound provides a surging backdrop for Kenny Berthelot's raw and unfiltered vocal performance, which perfectly captures the song's emotional urgency. The track doesn't shy away from its subject matter; instead, it barrels through it with a palpable sense of purpose.
Kemp explains the long gestation period of the track, noting that it was a deeply personal reflection. "It sat on a hard drive for five years because I wasn't ready to share something this honest," he reveals. "It's a gut-check kind of song about questioning your motives and deciding to show up anyway." This sense of vulnerability and resolve is what makes 'Occlude' resonate so deeply. It's a sonic exploration of the moment every artist faces when they ask themselves, "Why am I doing this?" and then find the strength to continue.
This collaboration marks a significant evolution in the partnership between Mont Rose and Kenny Berthelot, who previously joined forces on the 2024 track 'See You Around', a more introspective piece that delved into themes of phone addiction. With 'Occlude', their creative synergy has matured, becoming bolder, louder, and more urgent.
The track stands as a compelling addition to Mont Rose's catalogue and a powerful statement on the courage it takes to confront one's artistic vulnerabilities and share them with the world. For more from Mont Rose, be sure to connect on Instagram and TikTok.
