First Listen: Motenko is "On Your Level" with debut single

Share this article

    Photo credit: Letitia Smith

    (July 14, 2020) Austin, Texas has long been a hotbed of cutting-edge country and alternative rock. While soulful sounds can be heard at some of the city’s many thriving live venues, records by local acts performing in the R&B vein have been fewer and farther between.

    Motenko, a quartet that holds a weekly residence at Stay Gold in East Austin, is aiming to expand those parameters with its debut single, “On Your Level.” Composed by the group’s founder, lead vocalist and keyboardist Micah Motenko, the shuffling show jam brews ‘60s-laden horns and melodies with a funky arrangement that’s both classic and timely in feel. Motenko’s vocal treatment of the lyrics—exploring romantic release from emotional isolation—is crisp and in sync with the flair of the vibrant rhythm and chord structure.

    Take a First Listen to “On Your Level” and let us know your thoughts!

    (July 14, 2020) Austin, Texas has long been a hotbed of cutting-edge country and alternative rock. While soulful sounds can be heard at some of the city’s many thriving live venues, records by local acts performing in the R&B vein have been fewer and farther between.

    Motenko, a quartet that holds a weekly residence at Stay Gold in East Austin, is aiming to expand those parameters with its debut single, “On Your Level.” Composed by the group’s founder, lead vocalist and keyboardist Micah Motenko, the shuffling show jam brews ‘60s-laden horns and melodies with a funky arrangement that’s both classic and timely in feel. Motenko’s vocal treatment of the lyrics—exploring romantic release from emotional isolation—is crisp and in sync with the flair of the vibrant rhythm and chord structure.

    Take a First Listen to “On Your Level” and let us know your thoughts!

    by Justin Kantor

    Motenko - "On Your Level"

    Follow Motenko Online