Alt-pop artist Otys introduced himself to me with “Vagabond.” The song, which features a lot of layered vocals, harmonies and instrumentation, has a simple premise. That premise is “the journey of love.” However, the way that he goes about it turns such a concept into this auditory expedition. If you’d like to hear what I’m talking about, check it out below.

Before you go and support dope music in all its forms, though, I’d like to talk a bit more about the track. The way that Otys and his instrumentalists and engineers make this song “pop” (meaning “pop out your earphones and just make you want to love”)? It’s a thing of excellence and beauty. It’s something which reminds me of a mix between Ed Sheeran (the vocals) and Anderson.Paak (in the instrumentation and lyrics) with a bit of Mac Ayres in there as well. They also impact how the cello, which is played by Grammy nominated composer Phillip Peterson, comes through and how lovely it sounds with everything else. All in all? This is a great song to start out the year with, especially if you’re experiencing love during this time.

Okay, now go and support dope music in all its forms.