Cries of Redemption - Patterns
- English (US)
There are movements in your life that refuse to fit in the story you planned. The shifts happen and refuse to fit into a linearity. You see the fragments of your thoughts play out in a manner exactly opposite to your imagination. The new album Patterns by Cries of Redemption is a record that plays right into the feeling.
ALEX KLB - Etude in Synth Tones
The latest track by Alex Klb, "Etude in Synth Tones," is an electrifying electronica number that skillfully combines elements of retro synthwave with a contemporary twist. Drawing inspiration from iconic artists like Depeche Mode, the song showcases a masterful blend of nostalgic soundscape and modern musical interpretation. From the very first note, "Etude in Synth Tones" plunges the listener into a sonic journey that traverses dissonant chords and sombre moods while maintaining an infectiously upbeat and pop-oriented energy. It's a delightful juxtaposition that keeps the listener engaged throughout the song. The artist's ability to balance these contrasting elements is commendable and adds depth and complexity to the composition. The mix of the track is meticulously crafted, with each element occupying its own space within the stereo field. The VSTi drumkit packs a punch, driving the rhythm with precision and intensity. The electronic synth tones, on the other hand, elegantly fill the remaining spectrum, creating a rich and immersive sonic experience. The attention to detail in the mix ensures that every sonic component shines through, allowing the listener to fully appreciate the intricacies of the arrangement. With its wide dynamic range, "Etude in Synth Tones" takes the listener on a sonic rollercoaster ride. The track seamlessly transitions between softer, introspective moments and explosive, soaring peaks. This dynamic variation adds an emotional depth to the instrumental piece, evoking a range of feelings within the listener. A Captivating Blend of Retro Synthwave and Modern Ambiance" Alex Klb proves to be a true gift to the modern ambient music scene with "Etude in Synth Tones." The track showcases the artist's mastery of blending different musical genres and influences, resulting in a unique and captivating sound. It's a testament to the artist's talent and creativity that the song stands out in the crowded Dutch indie EDM scene. If "Etude in Synth Tones" were to be featured in movies from the 90s, it would find a perfect fit in both sci-fi and fantasy genres. As a surprising addition to "The Matrix" (1999), the song's futuristic and mesmerizing atmosphere would complement the film's technological themes and dystopian undertones. In the realm of fantasy, a reimagined modern version of a classic like "The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring" (2001) would benefit from the song's introspective quality, accentuating the magical landscapes and mythical adventures of Middle-earth. In conclusion, Alex Klb's latest offering is a remarkable piece of music that seamlessly blends retro synthwave influences with a modern twist. With its impeccable mix, uplifting and pop sensibility this instrumental gem is a testament to Alexey Kolobov's talent and serves as a gift to modern ambient music lovers.
Blueburst - Senseless
Blueburst, the brainchild of the remarkable guitarist/vocalist Craig Douglas Miller, continues to astound with their latest single, "Senseless." Drawing inspiration from pop rock and psychedelic music, the track showcases Miller's adeptness at crafting captivating melodies enveloped in an ambient atmosphere. With modulated guitar arpeggios leading the way, "Senseless" effortlessly weaves together elements of alternative and post-rock, resulting in a mesmerizing sonic experience. The song immediately draws you in with its ethereal guitar intro, gradually building momentum before bursting into a pulsating rhythm that resonates with power. The mix is nothing short of brilliant. As every instrument finds its place in the carefully crafted stereo field. Creating a vibrant and immersive sound. The rich tapestry of guitar textures, ranging from overdriven preamps to shimmering modulations, creates a captivating backdrop for Miller's evocative vocals. After the pathbreaking success of hits like Vanish, Train in Vain, and Amplify Me, Senseless is poised to be a welcome addition to any indie alt-rock playlist with a mid-80s vibe. A Captivating Journey Blending Pop Rock and Psychedelic Influences "Senseless" possesses a certain cinematic quality, reminiscent of a dreamlike journey through time and space. Its ambient nature perfectly aligns with the track's theme, enhancing the experience. One can easily envision this song finding a place in a couple of iconic films. It would seamlessly complement the surreal and introspective atmosphere of a cult 80s sci-fi masterpiece like "E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial," evoking a sense of futuristic nostalgia. Additionally, its alternative and post-rock influences could lend itself well to a coming-of-age indie flick like "Almost Famous," capturing the emotional essence of the characters' transformative journeys. With "Senseless", Blueburst continues to solidify their place in the indie music scene. The band's fusion of alt-rock and psychedelic influences, combined with their impeccable songwriting and narratives, has garnered them well-deserved attention. Looking ahead, fans can anticipate an exciting future for Blueburst. As the band plans to release new singles each month throughout the summer, delighting us with their unique blend of genres. Moreover, with a full LP slated for release in the fall of 2023, Blueburst is poised to make a lasting impact on the contemporary music landscape.
Mortal Prophets - Guitarworks
Embark on an extraordinary musical odyssey with Mortal Prophets' latest album, GUITARWORKS, a masterpiece that transcends the boundaries of sound and space. Picture yourself aboard a cosmic spaceship, journeying through the expansive universe, where the beauty of the unknown captivates your senses. Released to the indie music scene, this album is a sonic symphony that transports listeners to a realm where they become a minuscule yet significant part of something infinitely grander. One cannot help but be enraptured by the brilliant production of the artist's latest studio effort, a testament to the album's carefully crafted stereo field. Mortal Prophets, helmed by the visionary mastermind John Beckmann, has created a sonic landscape that goes beyond conventional boundaries, pushing the envelope of what indie music can achieve. As the spaceship glides through the universe, the guitar modulations create a fantastical vibe. The album's title perfectly encapsulates the intricate and mesmerizing guitar craftsmanship on display. Additionally, Beckmann's genius shines through as he weaves together rich, ethereal sounds, stimulating the listener's imagination and propelling them into a different plane of existence. Furthermore, the second track dedicated to Topanga Canyon is particularly evocative. It manages to encapsulate the essence of the road and town nestled in the Santa Monica mountains, creating a musical tapestry that resonates with the memories of those who have traversed that path. This personal touch adds a layer of intimacy to the album, connecting the cosmic experience to the tangible, earthly beauty. Mortal Prophets deliver spacey post-rock vibes with new album: Guitarworks Mortal Prophets' GUITARWORKS not only captures the essence of space but also showcases brilliant production that elevates the album to new heights. The clear and well-recorded sounds resonate with the soul, creating an immersive experience that transcends the boundaries of traditional indie music. In addition, the carefully curated stereo field allows each instrument to breathe, creating a symphony that is both expansive and detailed. The album's brilliance extends beyond its musicality; it is a testament to John Beckmann's ability to craft an entire universe within 38 minutes. GUITARWORKS is not merely a collection of songs but a sonic journey that leaves listeners inspired and enlightened. The mastery of sound is evident in each track, from the opening notes of "Ascension" to the closing chords of "Numinous." With its ethereal and cosmic vibes, GUITARWORKS finds a place in the soundtrack of the mind, offering a soundtrack for introspection and exploration. This album could easily find a home in the ethereal landscapes of shows like "Stranger Things" and the cosmic wonders of "Cosmos: A Spacetime Odyssey." The seamless integration of sound and emotion makes it a perfect companion to visual storytelling, enhancing the narrative with its otherworldly allure. In conclusion, Mortal Prophets' GUITARWORKS is a groundbreaking album that pushes the boundaries of indie music. Its carefully crafted soundscape, coupled with brilliant production, creates a sonic journey that transports listeners to the farthest reaches of the universe. This album is not just an auditory experience; it's a cosmic revelation that will leave you spellbound and yearning for more.
Elleodin-Cadmus
From her background in punk rock, you would be assuming what Elleodin creates now. Her sonic journeys can’t be compared, both are expressions of her soul. In this particular format however, there are other aspects that chisel her songs. Her latest single is a post rock gem called Cadmus. Your particular sub-genre comes from various art forms. How has this impacted your approach to composition? I think what I look for in music and composition is anything that feels emotionally intense in some way, and that can manifest in various genres. Something can be intense in a quiet, unsuspecting way, or in a way that’s overwhelming and energetic. I’m not really paying attention to genre so much as trying to find the feeling I’m after, which often leads to drawing inspiration from a variety of places. For Cadmus, I knew I wanted it to feel dark and fiery, so when I approached the sound design, I leaned into the kind of warm, gritty, dark sounds that I knew I could get from guitar pedals and tape. Overall the way I approach composition and genre changes quit bit depending on the needs of the song. Opening with some ambient winds, you’re still in the middle of dark water. This is the best way to experience her music, not knowing the source of light. The aural frames come in, making clear a silhouette within sound. Elleodin is setting a theme of this fantastical city from mythology. Exploring synth textures with Elleodin A song like Wing Commander Angel has a whole other pulse compared to your latest, Cadmus. How do you test the waters for the structure of these songs? For Wing Commander Angel, I was trying to depict a very different scene than what is presented in Cadmus. The picture I had in mind for it was one of isolation and freedom, kind of like a quiet ecstasy. Cadmus is pretty much the complete opposite - the aim was to depict the feeling of being surrounded by people whilst in the midst of an inner turmoil, or chaotic mindset - and an inability to escape. Because of that, the way I approached making Cadmus vs. Wing Commander Angel was very different, both in what I wanted for them melodically and instrumentally. It tends to be a process of slowly piecing it together while keeping the images I’m aiming for in mind and making sure what I’m doing matches. Themes of an album-Iridiscent The central theme in Iridescent, is it something that comes from a dream? Or experimenting in the studio while thinking out loud? The central theme of Iridescent, for me, was colour. I strongly associate sound with colour, and Iridescent was a bit like putting together five impressionist paintings that depict different, worlds, scenes and characters. There was a lot of experimenting in the studio and going with the flow with that EP and I felt a lot of freedom making it - maybe that’s why it feels dream-like. If you don’t know the premise of this divinity, her single is a good way to get acquainted. The percussion sneaks up, within sight. It resonates with an incredible energy before finally crashing, as though you have arrived. Haunting synth tunes, overlaid like temperature of water with this drumming, makes this song unlike any other you will hear. Even in concept, it sounds strange. Once it hits your eardrums, it is the very sonic escape you needed away from reality. Cadmus-The making of Cadmus has a post rock energy that you have contained with several instrumental interactions. How did you go about creating this song? I made the first draft of Cadmus on my OP-1 during a trip to the south of Spain. I didn’t have a laptop or any other equipment with me, so for a while I worked on it solely within the OP-1. The OP-1 works a bit like a tape machine; you only have four tracks to record on, and although you have various arpeggiators, you don’t have midi. Because of that, It always comes out slightly imperfect, but I think that’s what gives OP-1 songs their character. Once I came home, the idea was to keep the song I had created intact, while expanding it as much as possible. There was a quiet darkness to the original that I wanted to bring through, I knew I wanted it to feel both gritty and ethereal, so I processed the tracks in ways that are somewhat similar to what might be used in post-rock and shoegaze. As it started to transform I started to hear some of the more cinematic qualities like the heavy drums, the choir chants, and what would eventually become my vocals, so I added those in later on. I experimented quite a bit with it before ended up with the form it’s in now. Elleodin-Routes and inspiration Which would you define as your most ambitious project? Is it something you have completed or is still in the pipeline? It’s a concept album that’s very much still in the pipeline - I’ve spent years on it at this point, but hopefully not many more. It’s been fun to take my time and slowly build it into what I want it to be, but it’s also challenged me a lot more than previous projects. If you were to draw inspirations from certain artists and musicians, who would you say are some of the big ones? Kate Bush certainly inspired me early on, I’m not sure I would have ended up making music if not for her. Bat For Lashes is another artist who I still go back to listen to for inspiration. Otherwise, in terms of process and sound design I find KOAN Sound really inspiring - their music is really innovative. For Cadmus, I drew a lot of inspiration from Lorn, and the way he processes sound through tape and re-recording sounds until they feel both dark and organic. You must check out singles from Elleodin like Black Bird and Below Waves among others. The 2019 EP Iridescent is definitely worth checking out, so make sure you head to her Spotify and listen to this number. This song would be perfect in Divergent (2014). The whole film series needs songs like this that dive into the fiction. Follow her for more and listen to the single above!
Deep Dive Species - Adventus
Deep Dive Species, the NYC-based electro-acoustic duo, once again proves their prowess with their latest single, "Adventus." Drawing inspiration from ambient, alternative rock, and electronica, the track is a mesmerizing journey through modulated spacey guitar tones, steady bass rhythms, and experimental post-rock vibes. From the onset, "Adventus" captivates with its vivid dynamic range and carefully crafted stereo field. Layers of electronic textures intertwine seamlessly with Sergey Popovich's haunting vocals, creating an ethereal atmosphere that pulls listeners into a sonic dreamscape. The track's mix is a testament to the duo's collaborative process, with each element complementing the other to perfection. As the song progresses, it builds upon its ambient foundation, introducing intricate guitar melodies and pulsating electronic beats. The result is a hypnotic sonic landscape that transcends genres, offering a unique blend of introspection and energy. "Adventus" finds its place within the indie music scene, offering a refreshing take on electro-acoustic experimentation. Its atmospheric qualities evoke a sense of mystery and intrigue, making it a perfect fit for modern mystery films like "Gone Girl" and "Birdbox," where the tension-filled plots are heightened by the haunting melodies and atmospheric soundscapes. Deep Dive Species continues to push the boundaries of sonic exploration with "Adventus." Their diverse backgrounds, spanning from Ukraine to New York City, bring a unique perspective to their music, resulting in a sound that is both captivating and innovative. With "Adventus," they solidify their place as one of the most exciting acts in the electro-acoustic genre, leaving listeners worldwide eager for more.
Deep Dive Species - Unconditional
The latest offering from Deep Dive Species, "Unconditional," is a mesmerizing fusion of alternative rock and synthwave that captivates from start to finish. With Vadim Militsin's electronic prowess and Sergey Popovich's guitar wizardry, the track is a testament to the power of collaboration across genres. Reminiscent of post-rock soundscapes, this short instrumental track feels like a transition of space. "Unconditional" opens with a haunting instrumental transition track that sets the stage for what's to come. Spacey guitar textures weave seamlessly with atmospheric synth tones, creating a sonic landscape that is both nostalgic and forward-thinking. The careful attention to detail in the mix results in a rich, dynamic sound that envelops the listener in a world of its own, with each element occupying its own space in the carefully crafted stereo field. The song evokes imagery reminiscent of mystery movies, with its moody atmosphere and enigmatic melodies. It wouldn't be out of place in the soundtracks of films like "Gone Girl" or "Zodiac," where tension hangs thick in the air, and every note feels like a clue waiting to be deciphered. In the indie music scene, Deep Dive Species is carving out a unique niche for themselves, blending genres and pushing boundaries with each release. Drawing from their diverse backgrounds, Vadim Militsin and Sergey Popovich bring a wealth of experience to the table, resulting in music that is as innovative as it is captivating. With "Unconditional," they have once again proven themselves to be forces to be reckoned with in the ever-evolving landscape of experimental music.
Tomas Raae – ...FØR DE SPREDTES
The latest album by Tomas Raae, ...FØR DE SPREDTES is a transcendent piece of sonic storytelling that blurs the boundaries between ambient, experimental folk, and post-rock. Rooted deeply in the textures of acoustic instrumentation and nourished by digital sampling and live electronics, the record unfurls like a slow-burning cinematic narrative. It feels both ancient and futuristic — a soundscape where wind whispers through moss-covered forests while distant signals pulse through alien skies. At its core, ...FØR DE SPREDTES embraces a minimalistic songwriting approach. Tracks evolve with patience, letting silence breathe between notes. The melodies are sparse yet emotionally potent, often carried by stripped-down vocals that float above the mix, soaked in reverb. There’s a sense of divinity in these vocals — they don’t just sing; they haunt, guide, and sometimes vanish altogether, leaving only the lingering echo of their presence. This ethereal vocal treatment recalls the emotional intensity of film composers like Warren Ellis & Nick Cave, while the broader sonic architecture feels akin to the immersive ambient worlds of Ryuichi Sakamoto. The vivid dynamic range of the album is one of its greatest strengths. Swells of bowed strings and distant horns build from near silence into towering crescendos before retreating into quietude. Electronic pulses ripple beneath acoustic textures, creating tension and release in equal measure. Each sound seems meticulously placed within a carefully crafted stereo field, allowing the listener to sink into a space where every element has breath and dimension. There’s a tactile quality to the production — as if each pluck of a string or crackle of tape delay was sculpted by hand. Given its haunting beauty and spiritual overtones, ...FØR DE SPREDTES would feel right at home in the soundscape of sci-fi films like Dune (2021) or The Fountain (2006), both of which center around messianic figures and existential transformation. The album’s sonic palette mirrors the emotional weight and atmospheric intensity of these narratives. Its meditative passages and climactic surges align with the arcs of destiny and sacrifice found in such stories. This is an album that deserves a place in any indie ambient playlist, speaking directly to the heart of the indie music scene that thrives on innovation and introspection. Fans of Sigur Rós, Nils Frahm, or Grouper will find familiar terrain here — yet Raae’s distinctly Nordic sensibility, tinged with fog, cold light, and introspective solitude, sets it apart. Tomas Raae, born in 1978, has long been a vital contributor to the Danish cultural landscape. As a composer, producer, and bass player, he has scored for theatre, series, documentaries, and exhibitions, always championing the idea of music as a living, breathing organism. In ...FØR DE SPREDTES, he offers his most complete vision yet — a moment of stillness in motion, a hymn for a world in flux.