Michael Angelaux - Young & Restless

Review by Karl Magi

Overall Album Impressions

Michael Angelaux’s Young & Restless captures all the drama and angst of 1980s soap operas as it unfolds. Michael Angelaux brings together his tremendous voice, songwriting skills, and ability to convey atmosphere and emotion through intertwining instrumental layers to create an entertaining journey. Listening to this album is a fun and enjoyable experience for me. The artist truly manages to engage me here.

One of the crucial elements that makes Young & Restless work as an album is Michael Angelaux’s first-rate vocal abilities. He can capture deep feelings and explosive passion within his flexible, expressive voice and convey them to the listener with clarity. Whether he is crying out in pain or expressing sensual need, Michael Angelaux punches home emotion and keeps me coming back for more. As the album progresses, my enjoyment only grows.

Not only is Michael Angelaux an excellent singer, but he also happens to be a superb lyricist. Young & Restless features some of the most intriguing, well-thought-out lyrics I've heard lately. I enjoy the way in which the artist plays on words and paints vivid imagery through unique vocabulary choices and descriptive passages. This is an album I could listen to for the words alone.

Another compelling aspect of Young & Restless is the way in which melody, harmony, and instrumental choices generate a lushly enveloping atmosphere and mood. The harmonies between Michael Angelaux’s vocals and the surrounding sounds are rich, and his melodic writing ably captures the full range of feeling within the lyrics. I also find the pastel-washed, 1980s vibe that permeates the album especially evocative and pleasing.

My Favourite Tracks Analyzed

"Love Is Not to Blame" comes to life as a slowly gliding, encompassing synth carries a dreamy melody above a throbbing drum and bass pulse. Michael Angelaux’s silky, sensual voice carries the melancholy, needy melody over the driving low end. The intertwining synth wraps around the smooth vocal melody as chimes twinkle in the distance and the low end throbs.

A sharply glowing synth dances as guitar cuts through, and the chorus climbs on Michael Angelaux’s touching vocals while the drums and bass guide the music forward. Aching feelings permeate Michael Angelaux’s performance as the sparkling synth cascades and female vocals add a warming touch as the song drives on. Broadly glistening synth matches the vocal melody, as Michael Angelaux fills the song with heart-breaking expression.

Glimmering light interlocks in the distance as the guitar echoes the vocal’s feelings. The song’s sheer emotional depth draws me in as it unfolds. The guitar cuts again as the vocal slowly descends, and flaring synth glows with the pained melody while the guitar swirls and cries in expressive lines above the pulsing low end.

Our storyteller says that he's going to miss the song's subject's love, which was "so illicit and straightforward, yet artistic like an old flame." He asks if they're sadistic and says he's got to "listen to a new pain." He adds that being in love is difficult when the other person doesn't feel the same.

The narrator talks about the friction between them and asks, "Will you miss the trivial games?" He says that they're in a work of fiction, "a book about our own shame." He describes their love as often mystical and "intrinsic to a new name," adding, "This is hard; this is what I became."

Our storyteller says that they need to lay down their unnecessary weapons. He's lying awake in bed while the song’s subject plays around. The other person is looking for something different, "somewhere to stay around, to get out of the rain."

Now the narrator asks if the other person would think of him "if I told you that I'm thinking of somebody else." He wonders if they'd "put me back in the cupboard... lay me back on the shelf." The other person is gone, and he thinks he might have made a mistake. He feels ashamed but knows that "love is not to blame."

Our storyteller wonders if the other person is missing him or just going astray. He adds that "what was once colorful has suddenly become gray," and it's now "another week, another lie, another cold day." He questions whether the relationship will grow or fall apart.

The narrator asks the other person to tell him how to get their attention and when they're coming back once more. He concludes, "Tell me how your plan will just unravel; I will take a bow and forfeit the game."

Diamond-lit synth flickers through the music with a delicate touch as the drums rebound to kick off "Crystal Eyes." Michael Angelaux’s resonant, powerful voice carries the passionate, desire-filled vocals above the sparkling synth and the pulsing low end.

Radiant synth light suffuses the song as Michael Angelaux’s compelling voice carries the expressive melody. The active, unique percussion bounces underneath the needy lyrics and hopeful vocal melody as the song moves forward. I enjoy how Michael Angelaux captures the sensations within the lyrics and conveys them clearly.

The brilliant synth melody flies out with a lambent glow as string-like notes flicker and synth waves wash in the distance. The main melody refracts like sunlight as Michael Angelaux speaks, before the chorus jumps in with gripping energy. The low end presses forward with intense energy as the melody pours out luminosity, bringing the song to an end.

The narrator reminds the song's subject that they knew exactly what they said and all the promises they made. He points out that it was "a rule for you to bend" and that the other person was a "martyr in the making." He goes on to say that unfortunate situations follow the other person into their bed, and "now you're sleeping with the enemy, not the voice in your head."

Our storyteller says the other person's "crystal eyes" see far too much, and their "idle hands are cold to touch," despite the fact that "loving arms are all you long to feel."

The narrator wonders if the other person could "treat me like a king" if he could only be submissive, or if he had "the power, the looks, the wealth," and if he could sing. He goes on to ponder if he could be "the only one you'd look for in a crowded room" or if they could see his face. He adds, "Don't let me sleep for one more day."

In conclusion, the storyteller says it isn't his fault but "it's the violence, a vicious assault," and the hands that hold his dream are bloodied.

“Caroline” begins with dynamically bouncing synth that reverberates through the music, as sharp-edged, gleaming, digital-sounding synth carries a playful melody above the solidly pulsing low end. Michael Angelaux’s vocals have a stylish flair and a classic New Wave sound as the softly caressing, breathy synth moves past.

Michael Angelaux’s vocals are smoothly engaging and ideally express the song’s mood. A silky synth sails with delicate lightness as the fuller, rounder tones of another synth move past in energetic motion. I enjoy the way in which the semi-chanted vocals mix with the sparkling background. The main melody rings out with brilliant luminosity and lively feelings as it unfolds.

Now, the drums echo into an intertwining synth mist as bells ring in the distance. Medium-low, lush synth bubbles through the music while the higher notes exude intense light. The main melody slips through the music with easy flow, and the flickering high notes shine before the song ends.

Our storyteller talks about the song’s main character, who is famous, glamorous, and at the height of her popularity. He goes on to say that she's perfectly put together with "every hair in a particular spot" as she catches the "eye of our desire" because we want what she has. He likes the fact that "she's burning, giving me a fever."

The narrator says that she’s "a blossom that's about to bloom." The men in the room move around her, competing to "be a groom," but that desire is "an element of fiction." He adds that she's drama because "her life is a problem and her world's a stage."

Now our storyteller says that she's "caught like a tiger in a golden cage." The drama swirls around her, and if you call her name, you will "summon the devil." He adds that they call her Caroline and warns that you shouldn't be sucked into playing her game. She will cry until she falls on the floor, and then she'll "manipulate emotion just to even the score."

The narrator speaks of her landing in a private jet and rushing to get to the set. She demands a Diet Coke and another cigarette. He points out that "her dressing room is a battlefield for friction." Her fans are filled with love "as she bleeds" and "fades beneath the stars above." The void is deep, but it isn't enough because "she's headed back into the battlefields of fiction."

Radiant synth flies out in a brightly dancing melody as the drums tick slowly to start “Impress Me”. Active, uniquely varied percussion shapes the music as Michael Angelaux’s melted-chocolate voice slips in, and the synth contributes luscious luminosity. The way in which Michael Angelaux’s vocals capture the song's mood pulls me in and fully engages me.

The dynamic drum beat has a classic 1980s feeling as the chorus leaps out, catching the lyrics’ jaded feeling. A hollow drum echoes as the caressing vocals slip past with elegant simplicity, while the electric guitar slices with bright energy and the low end bursts with strength. The chorus rings out with expressive life, and the lyrics unfold in rapid-fire motion.

Brilliant synth twirls through the music as the drums rebound, the guitar howls with intricate complexity and undeniable feeling, and the round-sounding synth fills the background. Michael Angelaux’s wordless vocals climb up and shine above the entwined guitar. The chorus continues to carry through the music with entertaining expression as the song comes to an end along with the shining synth sounds.

The narrator says that if the song's subject thinks they're "fancy and fine," he knows that, "You can't hold a candle to what's mine." He's sipped from "the cup of loyalty" and danced with beautiful people and royalty.

Our storyteller asks if the song's subject believes that he appears to be someone who hasn't "dabbled in the riches of the West." He clarifies that he doesn't think they're very clever and that they could try to impress him for all eternity, but he’ll remain unimpressed.

The narrator says he's seen everything, and while the other person can try to impress him, they shouldn't "spring to fall." He speaks of the song subject's obsession and regression, asking them not to call him. He adds, "I've heard all of the fables, and they don't impress me at all."

Our storyteller says that despite the trendiness and great hairstyle of the person he's referring to, he can't make himself care. He adds that "You could move a mountain, bring a kingdom down," but he'll still be glowering at the ground because he is a "cosmopolitan cynic with a chip on his shoulder."

Now, the narrator points out that the song's subject is never going to amaze him because "my eyes are shaded the color of jaded," and he needs a vacation from the drama, adding that the other person can't impress him because he has "tasted all the flavors, and they don't impress me at all."

There's nowhere the song's subject can take our storyteller, and they never tell the truth. He knows, "You're never gonna see it through," so he remains unimpressed. He goes on to say that nothing the other person could say or do "will ever make me wanna play with you," so they should take the picture and get clued in.

As the song comes to an end, the narrator reiterates how unimpressed he is by everything and concludes, "I've worn all the labels, and they don't impress me at all."

“Give It Up” starts with varied, active retro percussion and chiming notes that flicker with lambent illumination as the backing vocals whisper, “Just give it up.” Michael Angelaux’s vocals are rich, deep with wanting as well as questioning feelings. The chimes light up the music as the bursting, bright synth doubles the vocals.

Chimes pour out crystal light as the drums flourish and Michael Angelaux’s gripping vocals draw me into the song. Intertwining percussion bounces along with the trumpeting, scintillating synth that dances through the track. The backing vocals add another warm element as the chiming notes flit with ethereal lightness.

A sax jumps into the music with its reedy, rounded tones and passionate feeling as the drums continue to bounce through, and the raised notes pour out sunlight. The sax howls passionately in its luscious tones as Michael Angelaux’s vocals take hold of the song and propel it to an end.

Our storyteller says he and the song's subject need to take a break, cool it down, and lay their relationship “down to sleep." He tells the other person yes, but they say no, and "then we cut into each other deep." He adds that no one can be a loser if they don't play the game.

The narrator tells the song's subject to just give it up and toss it out because he's not "hangin' on the line," as he doesn't want to fight. He says, "Living it up! Won't give it up!" and that he'll throw the relationship away because he doesn't want to waste all this time or fight again.

"You're impossible, you throw the bait at me," is what our storyteller says about the other person. He goes on to say he takes this treatment every time, while the other person locks the door and throws away the key "for my trouble and my petty crime." He points out, "There can't be a loser, so hang your head in shame."

Now the narrator asks the other person not to make it tough because he doesn't want to pay by "walking down a road of wasting our lives away." He asks the song's subject to give it up and throw it away, adding that "it's ’bout time that we started doing things my way." He concludes by saying, "The fire won't burn us if we don't fan the flame; there can't be a loser if no one plays the game."

Powerful, oscillating bass moves in heavy bursts as a hi-hat continually ticks to start “Call My Name.” Michael Angelaux’s vocals are haunting and warm as a choir calls out in the background, and the drums and bass interlock in a strongly propulsive throb. In the distance, a steadily spinning arpeggio dances on lightly trickling bass as the spoken word part echoes, carried by Michael Angelaux’s smooth voice.

The drums burst again, and the melody mixes yearning with aching as the drums and bass press the music forward. In the distance, a choir adds reverence as the chorus rises on the expressive vocals. The guitar cuts through as twirling arpeggios dance, and Michael Angelaux’s voice skillfully captures the need and longing in the lyrics.

The guitar unfurls with howling energy, crying out and twisting through the music as the active bass rebounds. A hi-hat keeps ticking while the intricately played guitar carries through. Steadily swirling arpeggios add a textural element to the music while Michael Angelaux’s vocals capture the mingled feelings within the words.

Drums flourish, and the chorus climbs as glowing light suffuses the background and the arpeggios seem to swirl endlessly. The guitar tears into the music again with wild dynamism as the vocals cry out above the pulsing low end. The track comes to an end with Michael Angelaux chanting “Just call my name” as the guitar leaps into the music.

The narrator talks about cruising over a hill to see a red sky, asking the song's subject to think about the fact that “I’m not chosen again, and I’ll just go ahead; it’s another thread in our history.”

Our storyteller asks the song’s subject if, as they stare into a mirror and meet their own gaze, they see their regret “coursing through.” He asks if “your penitence is seeping through your pores” and adds that the other person broke the spell he cast on them, but he’s only a phone call away.

Now the narrator sees the song’s subject “walk through the fire when your heart is cold” and queries if the other person could be that bold. He asks them to consider, “Is it winter again? Will it come to an end?” He wonders if they can start again and concludes that it remains a mystery.

“All the pain runs deeper than the ocean” for our storyteller. He asks the song's subject to forget their new feelings and “dive into my heart,” going on to say that all of the rain “will wash away the madness.” He doesn’t want to look away from the other person’s sadness or be separated from them.

The narrator says that “pallid and plain, it’s a typical stain,” but the song’s subject is still entertaining. He reiterates that it’s a mystery and asks if the other person is caught in a trap: “Will you take it all back?” He adds that he is a hunter on the attack.

Our storyteller says, “This man is reckless,” and asks if he means that much to the song’s subject. He tells her that if she needs his touch, she can call his name. He adds, “I’m so defenseless and you mean so much,” so if she doesn’t feel that rush, she can call out to him.

As a “broken man on the mend,” the narrator says that he’ll always depend on the person he defends. He asks the song’s subject to think about him, as a “supernatural gaze” will summon “the phase and take a walk in praise.”

Conclusion

Young & Restless effectively creates a drama-filled, glossy soap opera world as the artist combines his vocal talents with entertaining lyrics and a musical background that deepens the glamorous sensations permeating the entire album. For all these reasons, this album is becoming a favourite of mine. 

Droid Bishop - Cinema

Review by Karl Magi

Overall Album Impressions

Droid Bishop’s Cinema evokes all the drama and excitement of the movies with a retro ‘80s touch. Droid Bishop mixes superb guitar work, creative use of synths, and strong melodic writing to convey cinematic imagery. He is also a talented lyricist and creates expressive atmospheres in his music. This album takes me on a musical journey as it unfolds.

Droid Bishop’s guitar chops are one of the crucial features of Cinema. He's got nimble fingers and a strong sense of what sounds good. In combination with his skillful melodic writing, the guitar paints powerful images as it moves through the music. I find myself drawn in by the moods and atmospheres it creates.

Another successful element of Cinema is the way in which Droid Bishop deploys his synth sounds. He chooses the correct tones and textures for each piece of music, allowing them to form cinematic vignettes as they evolve. There's a balance between retro sounds and keeping the listener intrigued that I find well worked out.

I am also enamoured of Droid Bishop’s songwriting abilities as displayed on one of the album's tracks. “Renegade” showcases his skill with words and storytelling within a song. I am drawn to the way in which he is able to keep me hooked on the story he's telling as it moves through each song. In the same way he creates atmosphere through his synths, he also creates it through the words he deploys.

The album also engages my imagination as it unfolds. Each track draws clear and compelling imagery for me through the atmosphere it generates. I can sense the emotions and pictures being created by Droid Bishop, as they wash over me and carry me away to so many different worlds.

My Favourite Tracks Analyzed

“Feature Presentation” opens with sparkling chimes and a swelling, luscious background as digital notes swirl to open the track with a dramatic, cinematic start.

A quickly exhaled breath and a plethora of intertwining percussive sounds kick off “Murder Miami 1983.” The percussion tumbles in angular lines, and the kick drum punches quickly as computerized notes swirl. Metallic chimes ring as gruffly bursting synth climbs in a dynamic surge, and breath exhales.

Cascading percussion creates energetic motion as the gruff synth charges forward and the chimes glitter. Rising, glimmering chords flare as the percussion revolves with spinning motion below the chiming notes. Silky smooth, bright synth with a string-like quality calls out above the other musical elements. I find the drama and style that pervades the music ear-pleasing.

Digital notes swirl as strings call out in a caressing melody, and the chords are orchestral and emotive. Again, bursting drums join the revolving percussive sounds and the bass launches forward. The synth chords are effulgent and explosive as they pour luminosity into the music. The track continues to rush forward with unabated speed, and the strings dance again with expressive elegance before the track drives to an end.

“Renegade” starts gently as softly touching notes joining smoothly dancing synth and shaping drums and bass. Droid Bishop’s voice has a compelling emotional depth, carrying a yearning melody above the undulating bass.

Trumpeting synth flares out with surrounding light, and the chorus rises with a touching feeling as round-sounding, brassy synth sings a hope-tinged melody while the drums and bass drive the track forward. The guitar adds a catchy lick, and Droid Bishop’s vocals encapsulate the song’s message of courage in spite of challenges.

A synth rises with radiant luminosity, and the vocals carry the dreaming melody. The song’s mixture of warmth and sadness, tinged with hope, appeals to me. The guitar sings out with lustrous gentleness, and bright notes sparkle before the track ends.

The narrator speaks of falling into a "strange new day." He says that without a name, "memories fade away," and he asks if everything's the same, then what are we living for? He adds that "we could be gone in a minute. I never want to leave it lie."

Our storyteller feels like the song's subject has him under the gun, "like a renegade on the run." He says he's going to keep his cards close to his chest and "ride till the end of time on the wings of angels." He says the other person has him under pressure "like a renegade in the night" as he dreams with an open mind. He says that he's going to die "in the summertime in the City of Angels."

The narrator has "chased the light into the darkest dawn," and even though "the creatures come," he’ll go on. He says that he’ll "face the fact into the depths of thought again" and tells the other person that they can do what they want to him; he's "taking all the money tonight."

Rebounding drums and smoothly spinning synth are cut by flashing chimes to commence “Higher.” A funky groove walks into the low end as the bright synth trumpets out with energizing life, and the bass adds a shaded element. Mystery and explosive dynamism fill the music as the chimes flicker with crystalline light.

The drums pulse as a round-sounding synth carries a jazz-inflected, tranquil line. The drums and bass lock into a grooving pulsation as the luminous notes flare. Vocals add an uplifting quality as the chimes sparkle and the nasal-sounding synth frolics with laid-back, summery relaxation. I enjoy the chilled-out sensations flowing from the music. Chimes sweep again, drifting with a galactic pulsation as the undulating low end and trumpeting notes drift past.

Placidly wandering synth swirls with misty tendrils as it carries a melancholy-tinged melody. Now the shimmering main melody leaps out with encouragement and jazzy tones as the vocals raise and create a hopeful sensation. The track comes to an end with the melody exploding with life and passion as it finishes.

Rapidly rushing snare drum mingles with a quickly oscillating bass to open “The Ghost and The Highway”. Elevated, revolving synth intensifies the track’s motion while reverent notes fill the background.

A powerful engine roars and tightly wound, flickering lead synth rebounds above muscled bass and explosive drums. Swelling bass flow is broken by a twanging guitar while rounded, brassy notes flare. The rumbling motor’s sound is touched by sparkling notes above the driving low end.

Gruff, trembling synth echoes as the guitar twangs again and flaring light leaps out. Fragile arpeggios dance before trumpet-like synth carries gleaming energy as the V8 snarls and bubbling synth flows past.

An image of a classic muscle car charging forward is forged as twirling arpeggios tumble and rough-edged bass slices as snare drum throbs. Energetically intertwining synth arpeggiates in angular motion as punching drums push on. Victorious, medium high notes glisten and after another twangy guitar figure, there’s blinding illumination and silence falls.

“Bach to the Future” starts as bright synth flashes and slips with softly touching chords. Bach-influenced arpeggios undulate with classical elegance as the swelling chords wander in the distance and the drums pulsate. The electric guitar carries the beautiful, classical melody with graceful ease and leaping energy as the flaring synth chords burst.

Breezy arpeggios move with the precision for which Bach was famous, as radiant notes leap out. Droid Bishop’s guitar spins out again in the melody that is full of smoothness and grace. Chiming notes entangle with softly glowing luminosity as the low end continues to throb.

Trumpeting, deep synth rises now with a triumphant sensation as the low end shapes the music. The chimes entangle and bathe the music in light as the guitar slips in again, rising with a chord progression that is broken, lovely. The melody unfolds with a timeless sound as the track comes to an end.

Elevated strings cry out with tension, and a richly flowing, aching synth glides below as the bass begins to pulsate smoothly to open “Cinema.” Bright notes flicker distantly as the resonant, melancholy synth ripples below and the ticking drums tap.

The lead synth has a lush sound as sharply planing notes cut through, and the drums become heavy and propulsive. The strings ring out with thrilling brilliance, and the lower synth adds additional layers of emotion. Flashing chimes leap, and the strings call out again before the tempo accelerates.

The drums pound harder now, and the yearning strings rise with drama as the martial drums batter and arpeggios unwind. I am drawn to the layered depth of the music as it unwinds. The track ends with a crescendo that falls to low notes.

“The Beach” starts as solidly throbbing bass moves along with glistening notes that slip past with an easygoing flow. A vocal-sounding synth glides and breathes out as the drums and bass tap with a smooth flow.

The warm notes are like sunlight on blue water as they drift through the music. I enjoy the atmosphere of this track, putting me in mind of August days and balmy breezes. The drums have a calming quality and a steady beat while the bass undulates.

Sparkling notes flit through while broad, gleaming synth sings out the melody that is full of summery calm and the feeling of intense relaxation. Choral synth exhales while a jazzy synth solo unwinds with tranquility and azure peace.

Underneath the other musical elements, the drums and bass keep pulsing and the jazz-influenced solo skips and dances with laid back feelings pouring from it. Airy vocal-sounding synth notes float past before the track ends.

“Scene of Reflection” begins as a lush synth moves with twinkling notes and sweeping wind. The placid synth melody is meditative as it sails past with graceful lightness. Lapping sonic waves ripple outward as sparkling notes flit, and the bass shapes the music.

Bells flicker with crystalline luminosity, and the full-sounding lead synth carries the peaceful melody as it glides through the music. I feel soothed by the rich synth sounds and solid bass. Chiming notes flow past with elegant smoothness and float like a feather on the air. Flickering notes trail, and warmth fills the music as the track draws to an end.

Gossamer chimes drift out above lusciously swelling synth chords, echoing drums, and dense bass to start “Blue Rain.” A sense of abiding peace permeates the music as the drums reverberate and the synth chords hover.

Droid Bishop’s glistening guitar carries a dreaming melody out above the powerfully pulsing low end. Rounded synth chords play through the distance as the low end throbs, and the guitar climbs upwards with intense, affectionate emotion that slips through the music with silken ease.

Chimes flicker with filigreed light, and the impassioned guitar cries out. I enjoy the way in which the music conveys heartfelt emotion through the engaging guitar performance. The solo is intensely intertwined and full of musical detail before the track drifts off into silence.

“The Hero Within” begins with spinning arpeggios and twinkling notes that float above a slashing, colossal low end. Trumpeting, majestic synth rises with extended notes that gleam above the bursting, propulsive drums and bass. A mellow arpeggio twirls through the music with elegant motion as the low end throbs with life.

Crushing bass is cut by the artist's guitar, which sweeps with powerful bursts, staccato and slicing, before the brassy synth carries a moody and adventurous melody. Flashing chimes double the timeless-sounding melody as the guitar sings again. An ancient tale of adventure and triumph against the odds unfolds through Droid Bishop’s guitar as the colossal low end adds weight. The drums fall away as glittering chimes slide through the music and the guitar twirls above the low end.

The drums and bass come in again to shape the music while the artist's guitar leaps and pours out feeling. A full-toned synth carries the drifting melody as it conveys a great heroic quest in a way that fully engages me. Pain and victory are both embodied in the main melody as the drums and bass move onward. Chimes glow again, and the guitar soars above the supporting low end. The drums flourish, and the track comes to an end with tremulous arpeggios spinning out.

Conclusion 

Cinema tells stories of passion, adventure and love as it progresses. Droid Bishop effectively uses my mind as a film projector, showing scenes that unfold in my head, generated through musical skill. There's also a lot of heart and soul embedded in the music and that’s something I truly appreciate.

Hirobleep - My Own Reality

Review by Karl Magi

Overall Album Impressions

Hirobleep’s My Own Reality transports listeners through a completely calming, simply beautiful synthesized soundscape. Hirobleep wraps his listeners in warmth and gentleness as he takes us on a journey through nuanced and caressing auditory relaxation. The way in which he mingles varied synthesizer textures with exquisite melodies and meditative states creates an ideal album for engaged but serene listening.

All of the synth sounds chosen by Hirobleep on My Own Reality seem calculated to create a peaceable, pleasurable mental state. The sounds brush and slide, enfold and stroke with consummate gentleness and cotton candy clouds. Along with the classic jazz organ and piano tones, the album's entire effect is to lift us away from the pain and darkness of the world.

Another standout feature of My Own Reality is the melodic writing on it. Hirobleep composes ephemeral and utterly hypnotizing melodies that reach out with tender hands to soothe our worries. I feel tension leave my body each time this music plays. I also appreciate the fact that while the music is relaxing, it is never boring. My mind stays engaged while my body drifts on silk and tides.

I also find myself sinking into a meditative reverie as I listen to My Own Reality. The cradling musical qualities allow me to release stress while still feeling focused. In that state, I'm able to let my thoughts roam freely without anxiety or distraction. This album has proven a boon to me in dealing with the everyday troubles of life.

My Favourite Tracks Analyzed 

“Virginia” comes into being as pink and blue synth washes flow past while fragile chimes flicker. An effortlessly inhaling and exhaling pattern fills the warm synth as a glimmering, string-like synth floats past with caressing lightness. The drums form a smooth heartbeat as the fluidly touching, shining notes are joined by a diamond arpeggio that flickers with benevolent luminosity.

Easily breathing, floating sensations take me away on a pastel cloud as the chimes flit past. Peace flows through this music in a glossy ribbon that wraps around me and takes me away from the mundanity of life. The luminescent lead synth carries an achingly gentle melody with laidback feelings.

Misty tendrils extend to touch my ears as the arpeggios ripple delicately and the drums continue to throb. The high notes have a breathy, levitating quality, and flowing synth sails past. Chiming notes ring out with crystalline light, and the track draws to a close in a single outward breath.

Massive drums slowly thud with a reverberating echo as a ticking hi-hat moves and fat bass bubbles to commence “In the Clouds.” Waves of lush, glistening bass glide gracefully above the unctuous, rounded sounds supporting them. The drumbeat has an even pulse as ethereal piano calls out with a comforting melodic pattern and air sweeps in the distance.

I can picture cotton candy clouds in a glowing sky, illuminated by a warm sun, as they float past overhead. Percussion vibrates outward with a metallic quality as the dense bass rumbles. The piano wraps around me in a luxurious cloud above the steadily shaping low end, and the fragile breeze breathes past me.

Hollow percussion continues to tremble and echo as the piano reaches out with dreamy hands to hold me and carry me. The music has a fluffy, billowing quality that reflects the title as the track slowly comes to an end on the gossamer piano.

“In Venus Veritas” opens as bells ring and climb with soft emotion, and a hi-hat ticks lightly as the bass wanders and a breeze sweeps. A steadily guiding percussion pulsation is underpinned by the active bass as every note swirls around.

The piano hovers in the distance, unfurling with an easy motion. The drums and bass form a ticking, guiding heartbeat as the shifting notes flow past with affectionate feelings. I can feel the tension flood from me as the piano levitates with a tentative touch, and now the silken bass is joined by hollow percussion that pulses while the bass roams.

The way in which this track unfurls and glistens with lustrous illumination pulls me into the music. The swirling notes intertwine with misty lightness, and the open-sounding percussion taps off into silence.

Powerfully pulsing drums and a ticking hi-hat move with ethereally swirling synth and funky bass to start “Silent Moon”. The drums and bass form a locked-in heartbeat as diaphanous synth intertwines with soft motion, and echoing, medium-high synth reverberates and trembles, carrying a ghostly pattern.

Richly rippling, string-like notes wiggle through the music with clean light. The drums and bass continue to build in the even beat as tightly wound synth matches the pulse, unfurling breezily. Jazz organ chords add a minor-key hint of darkness, while wobbling noises wriggle in the background.

I enjoy the mysterious atmosphere created by the artist in this track as it floats past. The music forms images of bright moonlight slanting through my window, touching my face with enigmatic illumination, before a shadow passes over the surface.

“Open Your Mind" begins as a spaced-out, beaming synth wanders through open space. Rich bass and slowly pulsing drums underpin a ringing, radiant synth carrying a melody that slips with gossamer smoothness and lulling delicacy.

The drums form a steady beat as the lost-sounding synth drifts with dandelion-seed lightness. Ringing, bright notes float with a tremulous sensation and lift me up. I enjoy the way in which the entire track exudes openness and airiness, causing me to fall into a meditative state.

Arpeggios trickle quickly as the drums burst, and washes of synth slide through the music with a silken touch. The bell-like jazz organ carries the melody now, air currents wafting me along as I am lulled into a restful state of mind as the track comes to an end.

Melting synth flows down in extended lines as the drums and bass shape the track as "Worlds Apart” opens. A wandering, settling keyboard melody cruises as the drums and bass rebound.

Xylophone-like synth trembles out as sunlit notes illuminate the background. The easy-going percussion moves below the synth waves as they brush with unctuous tenderness.

The drums and bass continue to rebound as shimmery notes carry a gliding melody that slowly glimmers out into the smoothness around it. Rounded, soothing notes reach out through the music. I am put in a state of relaxation and peace as the song ends.

“Just a Dream” kicks off as a bell-like jazz organ moves into an expansive, misty landscape. Subtle hi-hat ticks and now dense bass begin to move in a lissome river below the billowing synth whorls. A delicately luminous synth carries a fragile flow with gossamer balmy.

Silky sonic tides intertwine and drift out as a full-sounding synth glimmers. The way in which the main synth melody gently wraps me up in a sonic blanket and soothes my soul is deeply pleasing. The tentative, settled synth moves through the music with complete ease.

I can breathe again after the day's tension lifts from me, and I am transported to a realm of muted colours and pillowy sensations. A river of auditory serenity continues to carry me on its tides before the track falls silent.

A xylophone shifts in slow pulses and electric bass strums before a laid-back beat comes in to commence “Nothing is Real”. The fragile, spaced-out synth wanders with a xylophone-like sound as an oscillating, shimmering note pattern flows in the distance.

The music is suffused with tranquility and sorrow here. The xylophone melody is delicate and diaphanous as it drifts through the music above the shaping beat. The subtle drum beat is as silken as the other sonic elements. Organ-like synth shifts with diffuse light and the electric bass twines through the music.

A tentative, lost feeling permeates the main melody and draws me in as it unfolds. Glittering notes trickle while rounded, breathy synth carries caressing chords that wrap around my ears. Pure peace drifts through the music as the lightly touching beat guides the track into silence

"Remember Eden" commences as a resonant jazz organ moves into a deep well, and tremulous percussion moves through the music and waves. The drums and bass tick in a steady heartbeat as the peacefully levitating jazz organ unfolds in lithe lines. Intense comfort fills the music with lush, full-sounding synth that reaches out to cocoon me in a fuzzy blanket.

The trembling synth continues to wander as the rich bass supports the other musical elements. As the jazz organ moves, it is exceedingly serene and relaxing. Once again, the artist removes me from the broken world in which we live and takes me to a place of centred, meditative total peace. The track ends with the melody cradling me in its embrace, and I can feel the tension fade.

Jazz organ notes move in a delicately filigreed pattern above richly flowing bass while gossamer synth flutters down to open “Zero Gravity.” Chimes spill out light, carrying a melody that transports me on a gently embracing sonic cloud as the drums provide a brushing, guiding accompaniment.

The chime melody is full of a deep ache as it flows through the music. A string section carries tremulous notes out above jazz organ chords. Chimes levitate above the other musical elements, carrying me on a sonic cradle through a pastel mist.

I am able to let go of the stresses of the day as the music wraps around me. An open-sounding, digital synth slips through the music, pouring out peaceful feelings. A tentative, gliding quality permeates all of the musical elements here. The track ends as softly and easily as it started.

“Lazy Days” starts as chimes hover above unctuously gliding synth and widely bursting drums that slowly shape the music. A piano carries a melody that speaks of relaxing in languorous ease under the shade of rustling leaves on a long summer day.

A sun-dappled feeling fills this music as the drums add shape and broad chimes glow with soothing light. The melody carries me away on a cloud of serenity, full of warm emotion and laid-back feelings. Floating notes glide easily as tremulous, bending synth shivers through the music.

The drums add form to the gliding sounds as the chimes contribute radiance. Peace spreads through me as the music unfolds, wrapping me in a tranquil sonic blanket. Chimes sparkle with delicate illumination, like diffuse sun through morning mist. The background swirls and drifts with tentative ease before the track ends.

A delicately shimmering synth moves above freely sweeping chords as “Welcome to the Beach” begins. A piano melody skims with dreamy elegance above guiding drums and luscious bass.

The melody is mournful while round-sounding, bell-like notes trickle in lucent lines with a digital tinge. Xylophone slides with organic fullness, adding more depth as the piano hovers. Piano notes carry a hurting melody that is full of wistful remembrance.

I lean back and let the music take me away, carrying me past the day’s stresses and holding me in a soft, sonic blanket. A hi-hat ticks as the piano continues to flow while rich-sounding, deep xylophone notes ripple with ease and waves wash in the distance. The xylophone fades out as the track gently drifts to an end.

Conclusion 

When one wants music with which to take a contemplative, relaxing journey while listening to well-crafted and beautifully produced sounds, I would recommend My Own Reality. Hirobleep reaches out to us with open arms and takes us into his scintillating auditory world. Whether you want to simply drift or roam the corridors of your mind, this album can help you do so.

BLACK ANGEL - Elektra

Written by Chris Magdalenski

A Studded Ear to the Past. A Smoky Eye to the Future:

A review of Elektra by Black Angel

Opening with spectral vocals accompanied by a quietly intense tribal beat, goth rockers Black Angel invite you to stand at their alter in worship to the dark-draped gods of the past. The song is Serpent’s Kiss. Twenty-eight seconds in a sinewy guitar riff slithers into my ears. It twists and turns, calling to the dark quiet places in my mind. 

The service has begun. The Word reflects those of the giants that came before. Sisters of Mercy, Bauhaus, The Damned. All their voices and more can be heard influencing the hymns Elektra has to offer — head musician and producer Matt Vowles has ensured that. There’s a smooth confidence in both the songwriting and production that projects a deep love for, and knowledge of 80’s goth at the height of its power. 

That said, Black Angel brings much more to the table than mimicry. Songs like Awaken Me and In Shadows have an intensity driven by express-train beats and heavy guitars. Layers of rich reverb and echo further tie everything together alongside the cool swagger of Corey Landis’ vocals. They’re great songs, and like many of the others on the album, I find myself almost instinctually compelled to groove along with them.

For me, the standouts on the album are two of the more eclectic tracks on the list. Title track Elektra and penultimate Marie present a more nuanced, storyteller approach to their gothic song craft. Elektra plays like an epic poem. Lush exotic vocals drift in and out of the composition, gradually building to a grandly orchestrated crescendo. The entire piece tells the tale of a mythic dessert queen.

Marie, on the other hand, trades goth grandeur for something more bare bones. A beautifully bittersweet piano line provides the backbone for a darkly soul stirring lament of a love lost. 

It’s an excellent piece that truly shows this band's depth.

With six prior albums to date, it’s no surprise just how accomplished these songs are. Up until recently, Black Angel had somehow escaped my attention, though I am more than happy to say I’ll be keeping my eyes and ears on them from now on.

For more Black Angel, visit https://blackangelmusic.bandcamp.com