Continuity is something Archi is proving he’s good at. The leap from 2024’s These Thoughts to Throwing Stones is striking. While bolder in sound and scope, Archi’s latest still builds on the emotional groundwork he’s laid, continuing a narrative in captivating new directions.
For all its experimentation, Throwing Stones feels like a record for the jaded. Opener “Stones” channels the haze of post-breakup reflection through a sharp rock sound. “That’s What You Get” shakes off this melancholy, meshing pop energy with the thrill and fallout of falling too fast.
Throwing Stones demonstrates Archi’s capacity as genre shapeshifter, seeing him slink between rock, pop, and R&B with ease. “A-Ha-Ah” is a clear standout, funky, upbeat, and made for movement. “Glass” pulls things inward, echoing the warmth of American artist Still Woozy.
Vocally, early single “Cape Town” remains a highlight, layering harmonies that show just how much his range has expanded. The inclusion of instrumental versions of the tracks on the project not only props up Archi’s skill as a multi-instrumentalist and producer, but emphasises just how carefully these songs are built.
Throwing Stones is the portrait of an artist growing into himself. Archi is more confident and more curious than ever before, but he never forgets to remind us that he’s still just having a shitload of fun. This is him screaming, “I’ve finally arrived”.
