Positronic - To The Sky

Review by Karl Magi

Overall Album Impressions

Positronic’s To The Sky combines the artist's trademark uplifting messages with a synth tapestry that is full of ear catching textures and sounds with his expressive voice and hints of more melancholy emotion. I enjoy the way in which the different Sonic elements combined to create a richly interwoven whole.

In a world full of strife and struggle, To The Sky provides a ray of light and hope. we're surrounded by many difficult things in this world and positronic helps to lift that Veil with his positive and encouraging lyrics. I will admit freely to being quite cynical about the world, but this album provides me with some much needed relief.

Positronic’s vocal performances are another reason for my enjoyment of To The Sky. His voice has a warm quality that can soar to vaulting heights or caress my ears with gentle emotion. He has a broad range and a unique sound that deepens the emotional engagement I feel with the album.

The way in which Positronic weaves together synth sounds on To The Sky creates rich depth and luscious layers. He manages to capture the emotional tenor of each song within the tapestry of unique sounds, powerful bass, dynamic percussion and fascinating auditory textures. I enjoy the way in which he combines and contrasts different sounds to form unique patterns.

I am also drawn to the melodic writing on the album. Each melody drives home the different feelings within each song. There's often a complex mixture of different emotions in every melody so that it unfolds like a miniature piece of music within the overall track.

My Favourite Tracks Analyzed

“To The Sky” comes to life as a powerful bass pulse moves with clean snare drums and a bouncy synth carries a melody bursting with encouragement. The low end’s loping drive shapes the music here. Positronic's expressive voice rings out with exaltation above a shimmering synth. Chimes add a charming sparkle and the drums and bass keep up a heartbeat. Positronic provides the listener with uplifting energy to match with the words of the song.

A string-like synth sings a melody that tells us that in the end everything will be alright. The vocals add a sense of progress and aspiration as the delicate chimes flicker above them. synth bends through the music as the continual throbbing drums and bass move forward. The string-like notes carry a melody that is deep with emotional strength that draws me in. Gigantic drums thunder as a digitally swirling synth climbs.

A bubbling synth forms a muscled pulse with flaring notes climbing in the distance. The bright chords illuminate the music and again Positronic cries out with aspirational emotion. Yearning strings combine with the percussive heartbeat as Positronic carries us up to the end with positive energy.

The storyteller points out that on the days when you don't feel like you can get out of bed and "your mind is on fire and your head is hanging low" then you need to "lift up your head because there's nothing else you can do." He encourages us to raise our eyes and look at the stars.

Our narrator adds that when you're surrounded by fear and you want to cry the only thing to do is "elevate your mind up to the sky. " When you feel stuck in a rut, you can't put on a fake smile as everything crashes down and there's no end of trouble in sight." He goes on to say that you should "open your eyes because there's always someone there for you."

An interlaced vocal chorus moves with luscious bass and a synth full of crystalline light to commence “Find Our Way.” A sharp-edged synth moves in the distance as the round sounding notes combine into a pastel wash. Positronic's voice pours out feeling as the drums and bass form a powerfully moving beat.

The vocals soar to increase the lyrics' positive energy. The chorus climbs with flying energy as the synth fills me with sunlight. The main melody dances as arpeggios glimmer above the smoothly skipping low end. Positronic lifts his resonant voice to call out a message of forward progress. The drums and bass continue to press the music forward as the intertwining melody is joined by rapidly tripping, glassy notes.

The main melody rises on a medium-high synth that bursts with dynamism. Now reverent notes interlock with the warmth of Positronic's voice to carry the song onward. Calming, enfolding notes sail out as a song comes to an end.

The narrator tells the song's subject that sometimes "we feel like a tiny boat tossed around by waves, trying to stay afloat." At other times they are like a paper plane drifting on air currents as they try to escape pain.

He continues by saying that when they feel like they are deeply buried with ”the weight of the world on our shoulders causing us to weep” hope is a place that they can go and feel free. He points out that in the end everything will be alright and they won't give up without a fight.

Our storyteller reassures the other person that they can find a way to be better than they are today. He adds that if they look to the sky for hope and love that rises "like a golden ray" they'll be guided through the darkness, even if their spirits are low we know that they'll still find their way with help from above.

The narrator talks about feeling like they are in the darkness looking for a light but they don't have to feel alone because "there's someone there." He goes on to say that when they feel like the walls are closing in and they are stretched too thin, the song's subject can reach out their hand and find his until the next time.

“Let It Be" starts as piano chords create forward motion while arpeggios undulate with intense sharpness. An elevated, whistling synth with a digital quality carries a melody that touches with soothing fingers above the powerfully throbbing drugs and bass. Positronic's voice rises with strength and deep compassion.

The melody has a lustrous glow as Positronic's voice climbs above it. Arpeggios twinkle with starry light as the powerful bass pulse continues below. I am drawn to the emotional depth within Positronic's voice as it calls out. This track's magisterial quality adds a sense of victory as the bass rumbles and the drums hit hard.

Raised synth Infuses the music with tranquil light. The piano keeps pressing on as the whistling notes shift. Positronic expresses the lyrics with conviction above the drum and bass heartbeat. Luscious synth swells out words as the arpeggios wriggle before the song comes to an end.

Our storyteller says that if we try, we can see the light "in between the lines and in between the tides." He adds that when demons come to do harm to our love "we can see the light burning deep inside." He goes on to say that we'll make it if we try and continue to fight without giving up.

The narrator points out that will need to hold on tight because "we’re in for it now " but that will make it through somehow. He continues, "everything that will be, let it be. "

Our storyteller says that "between the lines and behind your eyes " you'll lay awake in the darkness until "love’s first light. When the demons arrive again to damage our lives, we can still see the light if we hold on tightly.

He concludes by asking where our eyes will fall when the demons come. He reminds us that we can lift our heads "to the light and break apart the night."

Gigantic drums throb with driving power as swirling synth tendrils curl around them to open “Coming Home.” Positronic’s wistful voice dreams with tender emotion as the drums and bass create shaping motion. Diaphanous notes gently caress as Positronic expresses himself with touching emotion.

There's surging strength below the vocals as they are lightly accented by sparkling synth trickling through the song. Positronic’s voice climbs upwards with warmth and the drums rapidly cascade while the bass forms a solid support. Choral notes move with a tender feeling. The drums subdivide as the background becomes a smoothly glistening tide washing through the track.

Positronic imbues his voice with so much emotion in this song. Digital notes wobble and ripple as the continual low end pulsation goes on. I find the message of this song deeply affecting, drawing me to memories of the past. The track comes to an end on the vocals as they capture the loving emotion of the lyrics.

The narrator isn't sure why he spends so much time away from the song’s subject as he is "crashing over the waves, tossed to and fro" because there's an enormous amount of love waiting for him with the other person. He goes on to say that he's never been farther away from them " my heart is like an empty room." He's discovered that the world isn't enough for him so he's headed back home.

Our storyteller reiterates how far apart he feels from the song’s subject, adding that his heart has felt like "an empty tomb " so he's returning home to them. He says that "wandering away from your heart " causes his world to fall apart but he keeps going back down that road. He can't understand why he's playing his game and he knows it won't stop until “I hear you call my name."

The narrator doesn't know why he tries to wander off because he realizes that he can only reach the sky with the other person. He concludes that “only with you, on eagle wings I’ll fly."

“I Need More" begins as a frolicking, sharp-edged synth rises into the music with noble strength as the drums and bass throb. Positronic unleashes his uniquely emotional voice as the melody climbs with dynamic energy. The drums thud with power and the synth forms a propulsive pulse.

The weighty drums and bass push forward and warmly radiant synth pours through the music, adding a layer of enfolding encouragement. A synth entangles with sunlight and jubilant feelings as it climbs above the drum and bass.

I enjoy the way in which positivity flows out from Positronic's voice, carrying a hopeful melody. Digital notes swirl through the music as the chorus climbs with vaulting life. The track ends with expanding joy as the drums tremble through the music.

Our storyteller says that life where he is isn't the way it used to be. He adds that "thoughts of sadness creep in, tainting what we see." He points out that when he was young, he got it done and it seemed as if the world would always continue.

The narrator says that the mountains and the birds and breeze made him want to fall to his knees, but now it isn't enough for him. He used to only be able to see flowers and trees but "now I simply just need more."

"Flying away, soaring through the breeze " is where our storyteller wants to be. He continues that in the recent past he wouldn't go to places that were forgettable but is now trying to make the best of his current life. He’s trying to love everyone and learning how to do so.

The narrator is enjoying the person he cares for and "becoming wise while keeping my eyes fixed on the prize."

“Elixir” starts with misty synth and lush bass before chimes sparkle with diamond glow. tremulous expression fills Positronic’s vocals as chiming notes flicker with lightly surrounding illumination. The low end has a smooth pulsation in it as it slips past. Positronic's voice is achingly compassionate as the metallic chimes carry a melodic pattern with encouragement bound up in it.

A choir made up by layering Positronic’s voice intertwines as the glockenspiel dances and bass adds solid support. The drums and bass have a loosely moving pattern and Positronic creates a sense of affection in his voice. The drums and bass guide the music as the intertwining, radiant notes mingling now as the choral voices wind together.

I enjoy the way in which the love in the lyrics is reflected by Positronic's voice. The drums and bass move easily in the background as the chimes ring out with delicate brightness. The choir adds warmth and the track ends on deeply throbbing drums and bass, twinkling chimes and Positronic's uplifting vocals.

The narrator says that he didn't expect to meet the song subject but knowing that leaves him with no regrets. He says "sometimes I feel I'm losing myself when I'm caught under your spell.” He doesn't know where to turn and he says that "my yearning heart it burns for the feeling that’s deep inside.”

Our storyteller says that he can't hide his affection because it's "sweeter than wine, love potion number nine.” He goes on to say that he feels as though he's losing himself "when I'm caught under your spell” and he isn't sure which way he should turn.

The narrator points out that he misses the other person whenever they're gone and longs for them until the end of each day. He continues "I cannot help but cry for that feeling you provide” which lives deep inside his heart and from which he can't hide.

Deeply entangling notes tumble together with a steady flow as brighter synth glows to life as “Grace” commences. Now the drums pulse along with a choir adding more full sounds and creating a worshipful sensation. Positronic captures trembling emotion within his voice as softly gleaming synth dances and intertwines. The song's heartbeat moves as the loving vocals call out with heartbreaking gentleness.

A pipe-like synth carries a melody imbued with galactic light and caressing emotion. Positronic's voice compels me with its expressive abilities. Shining notes flicker and trickle through the background as the steady low end throb continues. An effulgent synth fills the background and a nasal-sounding, medium-high notes shimmer with affection.

The drums have a sharp clarity as the bass adds support. Positronic’s vocals capture all of the touching feeling within the lyrics. A digital sounding, pipe-like synth sings the melody with such aching lightness before the song ends.

Our storyteller begins by telling the song's subject that when he thinks of them he almost wants to cry because of all of the love they have for him which he feels he doesn't deserve. He adds "I’m lonely and I’m empty" when the other person isn't with him but he can feel them when he looks for them. He asks "oh love, how can this be?"

The narrator says that time drags in his mind when he's waiting to see the other person's face and "be surrounded by your grace.” He adds that when he goes to sleep he's always longing for the other person to be with him. When he wakes up again he adds “I need the love only you provide.”

Our storyteller is anxious and tired of running around. He concludes that he is full of want for the other person "but I know that when I look, you can be found.”

“Surrender” begins with oscillating notes moving in a smooth pulse as a swirling synth climbs above a darkly surging low end. Positronic has a unique ability to connect with emotion as his voice carries the slightly melancholy melody out above undulating drums and bass. Positronic's voice climbs with powerful expression as a lustrous synth pours out into the music with surrounding gentleness.

The chorus climbs with hopeful expression as a gliding synth carries a melody mingling pain and increasing positivity. the drums and bass throb weightily as Positronic's voice reaches out to draw me into the music. The vocals rise with a touch of shadow into something uplifting as the low end presses on.

The chorus is full of a rich warmth that radiates out through the music as the drums and bass keep throbbing. Full-sounding arpeggios oscillate as the bass adds strength. Positronic captures aspiration within his affecting voice as the low end drives on. The song ends on the synth’s planing voice, deep with majesty.

The narrator used to live his life "however the wind blew" but now he's realized that it's time to start fresh. The stars are showing him the way "to let it all go " and everything will be fine.

Our storyteller says it's time to "surrender and find new splendor." He understands that he isn't the centre of the universe. He adds that he's "no pretender nor a contender " so he'll surrender to a brand new way.

"Now is the time, no more looking back for me" is what the narrator resolves. He can see the signs that show him how he can be free from his past life and "my selfish mind.” He says he's going to take the time to leave everything behind.

Our storyteller concludes that "now is the time, it's going to be fine, don't need a sign, it's going to be mine.”

Rounded, delicate synth carries a slowly pulsing pattern that flows out in smooth waves as chimes flicker to start “Saying Goodbye.” The drums and bass create a steady heartbeat as the leaping synth dances along with lead singers dreaming vocals. The low end creates a strong motion as the lyrics reflect the tenderness in the lyrics.

The chorus climbs along with sparkling notes that flicker through the music as the solid low end drives onwards. Lambent notes rise as Positronic's voice fills with gentle remembrance. Arpeggios ripple through the music as the drums throb. I am deeply touched by the message in this song as it unfolds.

The drums and bass shape the music as Positronic's voice soars. Now rebounding sounds circle in the background as the chorus climbs with intense strength. The song is hopeful and tinged with sadness as it unfolds.

Our storyteller sits in "the darkness of the night where thoughts remain" thinking about a friend of his. He remembers laughing and having fun when they were "so young and full of life.”

The narrator expresses his wish to have said goodbye to the other person "before you soared high." He adds that he wishes it wasn't true but “you had to go and start your new life which only you can know.”

Our storyteller reminds us that we don't know what's coming next or "what's creeping and slithers through the night.” The other person is gone now so the storyteller says goodbye. He asks the other person to "stay focused on the light as you fly through the night.”

He concludes that it isn't the end and "I'll see you again one day on the other side."

Conclusion

To The Sky carries me away from this difficult world and into a place in which hopeful feeling abounds. I enjoy the journey on which Positronic takes me and always look forward to hearing more of what he has to offer with each successive album.

CELAVI - Anima

The Burning Soul of a Neo-Metal Machine: A Review of Anima by Celavi

Written by Chris Magdalenski

From the album’s opening notes a frenetic power takes hold of me. Ominous, yet compelling — synthetic day-glo paints splashed onto a canvas of silence with all the force of an artist swept up into the rush of inspiration.

The drums kick in — each hit a controlled demolition. To say they drag me with them is not entirely accurate. I willingly chase them down whatever path they carve. This is music that one is almost predestined to move to. It drips with an energy both electric and primal.

Sarah, the duo’s vocalist, counters the intensity of the music with an urgency that’s candy coated in sardonic sweetness. Her voice sits just inside the mix, a poison pill that one is all too happy to ingest.

There are five songs on the EP, each one a mainline to the adrenal glands. Lead-heavy guitars mix perfectly with layers of wailing synths to create speed metal for the dystopian age. They list their influences — ranging from Metalcore and Anime to Drum ’n Bass and Industrial, all of which can clearly be heard in this aggressively pleasing undertaking.

One influence that floats to the surface for this Gen-Xer’s ears is The Lords of Acid. Listening to Anima put me right back into the headspace I was in while stuck in the pit of a Lords’ show somewhere around the year 2000. Though hazy now, I remember being blown away by the metal-like potency the synth legends brought to their live show… Pure uncut adrenaline seasoned with healthy doses of sex, death and manic energy.

I hear that same potency here and now. Those same nods to neon-lit dens of mischief and mayhem… I look forward to the day when I find myself stuck in a pit overseen by the power that is Celavi.

For more, visit: https://celavimusic.bandcamp.com/album/anima

LAU - Digital Dream

Review by Karl Magi

Overall Album Impressions

LAU’s Digital Dream is a dynamic retrowave exploration of intense emotion, expressed through the artist's gripping vocal performances, interwoven synthesizers, dynamic guitar segments and well-thought-out lyrics. I enjoy the '80s energy that pours from this album and the emotional roller coaster it carries me on. This is music for both the head and the heart which holds a strong appeal for me.

Each time I review one of LAU’s albums, I am reinvigorated by her vocal performances and Digital Dream is no exception. LAU has a gut-punching voice that reaches out and delivers emotion with pure expression. The way she captures feelings ranging from heartache to passion and mainlines them into my soul is superb, drawing me closer to the themes she explores in her lyrics.

Another stellar feature of Digital Dream is the songwriting. LAU crafts lyrics with emotional vulnerability and intensity, exploring themes of love, longing, uncertainty and heartbreak. Her words delve into deeply personal and intense feelings without pulling any punches. I appreciate that LAU isn’t afraid to traverse deeper emotional terrain in her songs, while also writing music that is playful and full of joy.

The way melody, harmony and low-end strength mingle with a plethora of ear-catching synthesizer sounds makes Digital Dream a musical journey worth taking. The melodies she creates are memorable and emotive, while rich harmonies add depth and powerful percussion and bass shape the music. It also doesn’t hurt that the album is brimming with fantastic retro ’80s sounds.

I also want to highlight the guest artists on this album. Their contributions add depth and weight to the music, giving it polish, precision, and atmosphere. Together, LAU and her guest contributors weave a sonic tapestry that’s difficult to put down.

My Favourite Songs Analyzed

“Laser Eyes” begins as colossal bass moves in a muscled flow as bright notes jump. LAU’s unmistakable voice captures desire and nervousness as the pulsing drums and bass move along with flickering, radiant synth.

The drums and bass form a powerful pulse as LAU’s voice leaps with intense expression and a refulgent synth carries a melody mixing need and passion as it illuminates the track. I find the mysterious quality in LAU’s voice compelling as it carries the flashing melody.

The low end has a forceful drive as the chorus rings out and a brilliant synth flies through the music with incandescent energy. The song moves into a segment in which a luscious, interlocking synth flickers in a smooth flow. LAU’s voice caresses my ears as a glimmering synth cascades. AKRAS’ synth solo rises, capturing encouragement in a dynamic arc before the song ends

The narrator talks about the song’s subject glowing in the dark so she can see them clearly. She says that they could “take down planets with a look." The other person is looking so cute that she could die but she's also scared because “you make me so weak.” She goes on to say that she sees them across a smoky room and they are "attractive and magnetic like perfume."

Our storyteller says that the song's subject has “laser eyes” as she asks them to give her something to see. She wants the other person to stay the night because she's been "running for so long” as she falls into those laser eyes.

The narrator points out that this is the second time the song's subject is “travelling into my space and time." She goes on to say that the other person has her now.

She continues by saying that “you give me just one look and I am doomed.” She has no regrets “even though you burn me " but she's trying to forget about their connection and failing to do so.

Powerful but gentle synth swells and expansive notes commence “The Strangest Thing”. The drums launch into a rushing beat and LAU’s voice bursts out with dynamic energy as a synth leaps with glimmering light. Hollow drums throb and the punching low end presses on while LAU’s vocals jump out with engaging energy. The wide-sounding synth is cut by glittering chimes.

The rushing low end trips as LAU’s warm voice skillfully captures the emotions within the lyrics. The synth fills the music with radiance and a caressing feeling as the chimes sparkle. The vocals quickly run through the music, exploding with heartfelt emotion. The synth continues to move in scintillating pulses as LAU’s vocals encapsulate the song’s feelings.

A bending, rapidly dancing synth pours intense shine into the track as broad chords fill the background with strength. The pumping low end drives on and the song comes to an end on the touching vocals and bright chimes.

Our storyteller describes the song’s subject as “dancing through the pain” while waving goodbye to nearly everything. Meanwhile, the other person is “lost in the rhythm, heart is pounding” as they lie in shattered pieces, their thoughts “colliding in symphony.” The narrator reflects that the other person now second-guesses every love song.

The narrator emphasizes that it was the oddest thing the song’s subject has ever experienced, saying it was “like a dream she put you under.” Now, remnants of the past flood the listener's mind like “hypnotic healing thunder.” The storyteller adds that the other person will never be the same.

For the song’s subject, the narrator states that it will be “another day, another night, another stranger sleeping in your bed.” She questions why the other person now wonders why they can’t recognize themselves and why they “cannot stand any love songs.”

"Alive" starts with calming synth tones that exude a serene, blue-hued atmosphere, trembling softly as a luscious bassline flows underneath. The drums join in, propelling the song with a smooth heartbeat. LAU’s caressing voice drifts out, enveloping the listener in a tender embrace. Her expressive delivery captures the emotional essence of the lyrics, resonating deeply.

Towering, illuminating synths flash brightly, complementing the steady drum pulse and throbbing bass. LAU’s vocals soar with a hopeful melody, while a synth pours a lustrous glow into the soundscape. Broad, shining notes fill the background as the low end pulsates steadily. The vocals dance gracefully through the music, carrying the yearning melody. LAU’s voice weaves through the shimmering backdrop as the drums and bass maintain their rhythm. The melody swells with uplifting, encouraging energy before the song gently concludes.

The narrator tells the song's subject that they don’t understand what she’s been feeling and that everything now carries a new meaning. She implores them to just be hers and adds “can’t you tell I’m going nowhere?” She hopes the other person is thinking of her at that moment.

Our storyteller asks the other person to “hear the stars collide” as they ride into the night together. She feels alive now, describing the sensation as special. “Fireworks tonight, neon lights shine bright,” she says, making her feel alive again.

As she falls deeply, she notes, “I hear your breathing getting closer by the minute” and she pleads with the other person to be hers once more. She wonders if it’s real or if she’s dreaming, as “with each heartbeat, I’m revealing my real side.”

Intimidating bass swells in along with lucid synth and strongly pulsing drum to open “The Storm”. LAU’s voice has a silken, deeply affecting quality as it carries a melody full of gentle affection.

Metallic notes flash as the drums and bass burst before LAU’s voice dances out with a touching feeling as the synth swirls. A worshipful chorus moves in the distance as LAU’s voice reaches out to touch my heart. The melody trembles with loving expression and metallic notes flash out with dazzling power.

The chorus climbs with the vocals, deeply felt and full of passion, as the guitar moves through. The bass throbs and LAU’s voice is full of caring as the drums continue to burst and the guitar solos with intensely heartfelt emotion before the song ends.

Our storyteller says she and her friends have been with each other for a very long time. They are "the perfect match; we go way back." The years pass by, and as they age, they "know each other inside out."

The narrator can't imagine living without her friends who are always there when she's in trouble. She's excited to make new memories with them because "you are everything to me and more; you are gold." If a storm comes up, they weather it together.

Our storyteller says that "when the ocean’s rough, I'll hold your hand" because she will always love her friends. She adds that "even when there's nothing," she can close her eyes and they are beside her.

Now, the narrator points out that they've been through a lot together as friends and "you saved my life and I saved yours." She adds that there have been many others in their lives, but their friendship has always been there. She goes on to say that when there's nothing else, "I just close my eyes and you’re my paradise."

“Damaged" comes to life with a massively throbbing bassline paired with a delicately shimmering synth that twirls above it. The bass undulates, while soft chords slip into the mix. LAU’s gutsy, deeply emotive vocals enter, supported by a steady, guiding drumbeat. The lithe synth entangles with affectionate light, rippling alongside smoothly floating lines. High notes carry a dancing melody tinged with melancholy, reflecting the emotional weight of the lyrics.

Fulvio Colasanto’s guitar glides in with a smooth, easygoing quality, merging seamlessly with the throbbing drums and bass. LAU’s voice bursts with raw emotion and a longing for a brighter future. A chiming melody glimmers, adding sparkle, while the guitar continues to flow through the track with a velvety touch. LAU’s vocal performance captivates, filled with loving emotion, as the undulating bassline propels the track forward.

The scintillating melody radiates passion, while Fulvio Colasanto’s guitar cries out with an expressive, heartfelt tune. Silken synths glitter and skip past like fleeting moments and the chimes resonate with crystalline purity, singing out beautifully. The track drives powerfully to its conclusion, leaving a lingering sense of longing and emotional intensity.

The narrator says that she can’t give the song’s subject what they came searching for. She adds “my heart’s a little damaged, so I can’t give you more.” Perhaps after some time passes, she can open up again. She goes on to say, “maybe we’ll meet down the line, and you will comprehend” that she was terrified because loving the other person wasn’t in her plans. She adds, “I didn’t wanna disintegrate into your arms.”

Our storyteller asks,“So what if life divides us? So what if it’s the end?” because the song’s subject wasn’t afraid to show her how deeply they had really fallen for her. She repeats that she was scared to death and that loving the other person wasn’t in her plans. She elaborates, “I really couldn’t reciprocate your one-time love.”

She reflects, “Empty rooms and superficial hours fade away in memories we once had.” She concludes that it was everything, and it was theirs—but now, nothing will come back.

A smoothly popping disco beat moves with vivid synth intertwining in silky lines to start “Physical Attraction”. Now the drums and bass launch earnestly as LAU's voice captures the passion and desire within the lyrics. The funky bass line rides along with the drums and LAU's expressive vocals.

A tightly wound synth wriggles its way through the track as LAU pours out emotion and need. The lead synth shimmies through a melody as it jumps for joy and the groovy low end propels the track. LAU's vocals catch the disco vibes in the music, exploding with lively energy as a funky guitar solo spins through. The drums flourish, and the chorus forms hip-shaking grooves that make me want to move.

LAU creates an engaging atmosphere with her vocal performance, and the slap bass brings the cool factor. A raised, nasal-sounding synth calls out in a drifting melodic line before the low end locks in again, and the track dances on. The music ends with the chorus unfurling in impassioned motion, and the low end pushing forward.

Our storyteller says that the song's subject catches her eye in a crowded room but walks on by. She says, "I can feel the tension, I can sense your heartbeat," but the other person is scared to step out of the shadows, and she wonders why.

The narrator tells the song's subject that they should "seize the moment, leave fear behind." She knows they can do it and tells them not to hesitate because "the time is now." They've got a strong physical attraction that isn't merely distracting. She says that they have a connection and "we're the spark and the reaction."

Our storyteller talks about their attraction to one another being "gravitational, a groove of satisfaction." She says that the song's subject is like an undeniable missing piece. She adds, "we fit like a glove," and asks for the other person's number. She wants to catch up with them the next day, "maybe sober up and go for a drive," since she just wants to see them.

Now the narrator says that they should "hold this moment, forget the world" without any more hesitation because now is the time for them.

*High and Low* begins with an urgently trembling synth as LAU's dynamic and soaring voice carries the poppy melody with an easy flow. The broad bass throbs as the drums tick rapidly and then flourish. Hand claps echo as LAU's joyful voice powers forth energetically, while the synth flicks out playful, dancing lines, and the low end bursts.

LAU's vocals create pure enjoyment as they carry the uplifting melody, and hand claps come in again. The lead synth fills my ears with happiness and shining life as it swirls upwards. Once again, LAU captures the mood of the music perfectly and conveys it to me with charming expression.

Now her muffled voice chants as smoothly intertwining, misty synths are cut by sparkling notes, and the hand claps return. The song has a superb retro feeling as it skips through the verses and explodes exuberantly before coming to an end.

The narrator talks about a clock ticking as she holds her phone in hand, surrounded by empty space. She says she’s "figuring out the science of love." Now she stands waiting for a sign because the other person said yes at first, but it’s been a while and she can’t hide her feelings.

Our storyteller reveals that she was running on automatic. She "didn't mean to be dramatic, but my past is so traumatic," and now she feels "somatic" to the subject’s love. She adds that she’s dying when the other person makes her high before bringing her low.

The narrator isn’t sure whether they’re together or not. She hates it when the subject says they do and then they don’t. She finds herself having to "weigh in all my options if you call." As more time passes, she asks, "Are we just friends? Are we just what?" The uncertainty drives her crazy.

Our storyteller wonders if she should wait or run. She concludes by saying, "Each day I miss you more and more, and I can’t fight it."

Conclusion

Digital Dream is another excellently executed album by LAU and her guests. it keeps all of the retro energy that I've come to enjoy from her work and gives it another layer of polish and musical quality. This is one of those albums that I could listen to over and over without ever getting tired of hearing it.

C Z A R I N A - Empire

Echoes Of A Lost Empire: A Summary Report on the Phenomena Experienced During the Survey of Planet Designated “Kitsune 00.46.2”

Submitted by Christoph Magdalis — 3rd Archon Audiologist, Division of Xeno-Archeology

Author’s Note 001: As I write this report my team and I are still grappling with the effects of whatever it was that our team came into contact with during our expedition of the world we now refer to as “Kitsune”. Though the visions have become less vivid over the passing days, we are all still experiencing auditory hallucinations at regular intervals. 

Though not unpleasant, it is safe to say that the entire team (myself included) are being irrevocably altered in ways we cannot even being to fathom. With that said, I fear my words alone cannot truly express the nature of our findings. Please reference the audio fragments listed below.

Our group descends into the depths of the bore-hole. Hours pass slowly. As we move the darkness deepens. It thickens into a viscous substance that slows our footfalls and slackens our resolve. The light of our holo-torches keeps us all moving forward, the thin line of illumination is the only thing tying us to whatever it is at the end of all this.

The only thing that breaks the oppressive silence is the sporadic chatter of our comms. A staccato back and forth, operational protocols mixed with the occasional gallows humor jokes that are commonplace on expeditions such as these. Always a comfort, even if it’s a thin one at best.

We’re shaken from the moment mission-focused reverie when we come to the realization that we are not alone. Another voice fills in the space around us.

Audio Fragment 1.001 — “Rebirth”

Her voice shatters the darkness we’ve been wading through. Her cries to the heavens are nothing short of primal. Wave after wave of raw emotion crash into us, overwhelming our senses to the point of near failure. There is no single word to describe the emotion she is projecting. Joy, sadness, pain, rage, hopefulness - they’re all there. A singularity of consciousness wrenched into being by sheer force of will.

This isn’t a song. It’s a new beginning. This being has existed before. She exists again.

The music that accompanies her is a contradiction. Both familiar and alien all at once - exotic tonalities interweave with one another, creating soundscapes that offer endless opportunities for auditory exploration. To say that the music accompanies her would not be accurate. She exists in it. It exists in her.

There’s an urgency to the melody that drives the meaning behind her words. She’s telling us the story of her return while simultaneously adjusting to a reality shifted by the winds of time. The drums are relentless, demanding that we follow her down whatever path she forges.

The music stops. The darkness engulfs us once more.

Audio Fragment 2.002 — “Dark Star”

We’ve awoken in a massive chamber with no recollection of how we arrived here. Our eyes adjust to the faint greenish light that permeates the room. Closer inspection reveals the source to be the walls themselves. They are covered in large glowing sigils of unknown meaning. We are greeted by the being’s voice once more. This time she’s joined by the full force only an orchestra can provide. The drums have not lost an modicum of intensity, though tribal elements push themselves to the fore. They steady the composition, providing a charged heartbeat to this reawakening ritual we are now a part of.

As the song comes to an end, the room dissolves around us. Seconds later we are surrounded by stars.

Author’s Note Supplemental 001.b: After undertaking a data-mining operation spanning at least eight centuries it is confirmed that there is no being living or dead known as “CZARINA” in any record of any civilization in the charted universe.

Audio Fragment 3.003 — “Ghost Machine”

The terror I feel in these initial moments is beyond words. Solid ground has given way to the vastness of space. The comfort of stone walls is replaced with a canvas of planets, stars and nebulae. We share the same space as entire galaxies. Their imposing forms remind us just how insignificant we are.

The music is there once more. Though it continues to intensify, it offers a sense of grounding. This all could be an illusion. A grand theater projecting to us a lost reality. Again we are confronted by her vocals. They have all the authority of a general leading countless legions into intergalactic conflict. There are entire warships dedicated to spreading the liturgy that is her Empire.

Author’s Note Supplemental 001.c: A subsequent liturgical survey has returned no results on the name being present in the belief systems or mythologies of 765,000 xeno races that have existed across the same span of time.

Audio Fragment 4.004 — “Exoskeleto”

The view shifts again. We’re on the bridge of a spacecraft of some kind. We can see our distorted reflections in the sleek sliver of its bulkheads. There are no visible control panels, yet I get the sense we are moving. The music begins again. Strange and frenetic, it reminds me of machine-speak. Warbles and bleeps bounce around each other in a playful dance that is on the edge of spinning out of control. 

It’s the sheer power of her voice that holds everything together. Our attention is drawn upward, and we see her for the first time. She’s standing at the ship’s apex - a glass-lined observation deck built for one. Clad in armor crafted from the same material as the ship we are now on, her striking form is infused with a sense of spectral unreality. Streaks of starlight glimmer and glint off of her battle plate. 

The dark of her eyes relentlessly scan the stellar fields in front of her. She searches for something.

Audio Fragment 5.005 — “Empire”

It is clear to me this being we have come to know as “CZARINA” is a messenger of some kind. She exists to …………………………………………………………………………………………………….

CONTENT HAS BEEN REDACTED PER ORDER OF THE ECHELON OF INFORMATION DISSEMINATION…………………………………………………………………………………………..

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………  “Build our Empire of metal and fire” repeated over and over again. 

I think we’ve awakened something.

Audio Fragment 6.006 — “Metatronica”

In less than an instant the ship is gone. I’m back in the massive cavern chamber from before. The sigils that once glowed an unearthly green now illuminate the room with an orange radiance. A warm feeling permeates my body. Despite the fact that the rest of the expedition seems to be missing I am at peace. 

The room comes alive as the music starts again. A soothing melody, cheerful and waltz-like offers a tonal shift from the previous pieces. The air in front of me morphs into a light show. Holographic images of planets circling one another in a cosmic dance flood my vision. Countless star systems are represented, the timelines of their existence are the threads that bind us all together. Eons on knowledge pour into my mind with all the force of a raging waterfall…. All words are failing me save for one….

Unity.

Audio Fragment 7.007 — “The Outsider”

The light show ends. The room grows cold as the warm light drops to an icy pale blue. The music matches my unease, piercing me like a thousand tiny needles. The dirge-like march of the beat betrays her emotions before her voice enters my consciousness. This song is an interrogation… Not only of herself, but of everything that exists. A dark reflection of the sum total of her existence. She doubts herself yet, pushes forward… All I can do is follow.

Audio Fragment 8.008 — “Alchemy”

The music stops and everything goes pitch black. When the light returns confusion takes over. I am back with the rest of the expedition, but we once again are not where we should be. We are surrounded by immense trees whose tops can barely be seen touching a dusk-amber sky. We’re seated in a circle, guests in a primeval forest… One that shouldn’t exist on the planet we are currently exploring. 

A cacophony of tribal drums flare up around us. They’re sharp contrast from the previous experience. Triumphant in their message, it is clear this song is a declaration - a tribal roar to the heavens that she is master of her reality…

…of this reality.

…of any reality.

The words “Only shadow purifies the light” are lodged in my mind. A permanent splinter in my mind’s eye. 

Author’s Note Supplemental 001.a: A decision has been made. Due to the nature of the “events” we have collectively experienced the team has suspended the mission on Kitsune and returned to prep for cryosleep. It’s been agreed that the best course of action is to return home and develop a different strategy for exploring this world at a later time.

Audio Fragment 9.009 — “Beyond the Veil”

She follows me into what should be a dreamless sleep with one final song. Though it’s a haunting piece, it projects an aura of comforting hopefulness. Her voice moves with us, the music drawn from the very planets our ship passes on its way home. It’s a beautiful lullaby fueled by nothing less then the beating heart of the Universe itself. The low hum of existence is the bed we all share together. 

It could be her final message to us. Or it could be the beginning of something new.

Author’s Note Supplemental 001.b: These findings have been submitted to the Divisions of Quantum Exploration and Reconfiguration and Xeno-Historiography for further review. The entire expedition have all submitted to medical testing on Terra Prime in hopes of gaining a better understanding of our condition, as well as if there are deeper ramifications for humanity as a whole.

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