Nero’s Joseph Ray goes solo to release haunting single ‘Inside (Feat. Meli)’

by: Will McCarthy Jun 12, 2017

Nero have been largely quiet since their sophomore album, Between II Worlds. The 2015 LP saw the duo of Joseph Ray and Daniel Stephens evolve into a trio with the induction of vocalist Alana Watson as a full-fledged member of their group. Though the band has maintained a steady touring schedule in the time since their acclaimed album, they’ haven’t put forth any new studio material since (although they did release a Prince tribute and seem to cryptically hint at a new EP in 2016).

As Nero’s musical hiatus nears the two year mark, Joseph Ray has come forward with his debut solo production, “Inside.” Premiered today, June 12, via Billboard, the single possesses all the harrowing grandeur of Nero’s canon with the danceable qualities of house’s most revered talents. Vocalist and producer Meli, who joins Ray on the track as a result of Smirnoff Sound Collective’s endeavor to link up promising rising talents with experienced mentors, adds an element of mystification which pervades the track’s entirety.

Reportedly, Ray has intentions to release several more tracks as a soloist in 2017.