SINGLE REVIEW: 100 – Red Flags
100 opens the Jihad project with ‘Red Flags’, a debut single that immediately establishes a sense of tension and innovation. The track begins with two seconds of abrasive noise, a jarring burst that quickly gives way to a soft, haunting piano. From there, a gothic and slightly sinister energy permeates the piece, underpinned by nervous chimes that hint at unease before another wave of fuzzy noise interrupts, keeping the listener off balance.
Vocals arrive with heavy auto-tune, a choice that surprisingly complements the track, giving it a contemporary, futuristic edge. The piano continues to pulse beneath the layers of sound, anchoring the composition even as rampant, distorted textures periodically erupt, adding both drama and catharsis. The contrast between soft, delicate moments and aggressive noise creates a sense of dynamic unpredictability — it’s daunting and sombre, yet compelling.
As the track progresses, the auto-tuned vocals gradually give way to 100’s natural voice, revealing a sweet, dreamy quality that adds a new layer of emotional depth. This shift transforms the latter half of the song into something more intimate, even tender, balancing the harsher, more chaotic textures that dominate earlier passages. The track thrives on its contrasts: melancholy and aggression, artfulness and raw energy, heaviness and delicacy.
‘Red Flags’ is not the easiest listen, but that is part of its appeal. It’s arty, ambitious, and distinctively innovative — a rain of sounds, textures, and moods that never settle into convention. 100 demonstrates a clear sense of vision here, blending dark, gothic undertones with contemporary production to create something truly unique. The track feels like a statement of intent for the Jihad project: challenging, immersive, and entirely their own.
