NOT THIS TIME (FEAT. BUTO) [REVIEW]

In the haze of the post-valentine’s era, Lolli (@lollimusic_) has emerged with a list of demands by way of her new single Not This Time; a man with bands, a Benz, and the brands. I don’t know any guys who have (legally) acquired such wealth, but nonetheless, the track is a bold statement from the Sydney-based artist who is joined by international act Buto (@kingbuto) on her first single in two years.

Not This Time cover art (image credit: supplied by artist)

Not This Time is a sugary attack against Lolli’s doubters, utilizing an upbeat instrumental to drive home her empowered artistic identity. The summer anthem draws musical cues from reggaeton and modern R&B, with the artist’s bubbly vocals floating over the steady production. Buto’s verse compliments Lolli’s performance well, providing the male perspective on her romantic dilemma. With a strategically catchy hook, Not This Time is ready for heavy radio play and beach parties (when the sun decides to return).

The track is also accompanied by a music video directed by Deng Deng (@denga.deng) and shot by PJ Svoboda (@pjector). Working the track into a narrative, the visuals see Lolli hit the studio and stay focused despite rose-filled romantic advances and Batman hitting the drums. Even Buto fits his feature in before getting ghosted as the video resolves. 

Lolli’s own artistic journey is worth mentioning as well, spanning injuries and diverse musical inspiration. Perhaps her most notable milestone was being featured on the Wu-Tang Clan’s first Wu Invasion Mixtape, after being noticed by GZA in 2017. Between the mixtape placement and the new single, Lolli kept a low profile and worked on her craft.

‘Truth is I ain’t really into you’ (image credit: supplied by artist)

As for the rest of the year, Lolli promises more features and singles, as well as live shows. A two-year hiatus presumably results in a full back-catalog of tracks, so here’s hoping for a heavy release schedule as live music continues to make its return. 

Oh, yeah - by the next single we’re gonna need an update on the loaded beau and how Batman fits into this whole thing.

Stream Not This Time here and watch the music video here.