Ascension - Into the Mountains by Joseph K. Perez

Sometimes life can just be overwhelming and the right piece of music comes along at the right time. As I open "Ascension" and allow the synth textures to roll over my ears I feel as if I have been bathed in a cascade of sonic waves that manage with the aid of my coffee to take me away from life and the far too busy hustle-n-bussle of it all. This piece is accompanied with a video of what I am assuming is drone footage of rock formations in the LasVegas, Nevada area. As far as marriage of visuals and sounds I think you find that this is a very good match. 

The track opens with the buzz of grainy synth textures much like the granular textures of the rock formations present in the video, but soon the sonic scene opens with bell textures and swirling sounds that almost seem to make you feel as if you have been pulled out of your chair and into the clouds. The cut has a laid back vibe that allows you to enjoy the scenery and escape your surroundings. This is the type of music that I would like to have in the background when I am trying to cleanse my musical pallet so that I can think clearly and not be weighted down by any over obtrusive socio/political ideas. The tones are crisp and refreshing. I get an impression of "New Age" and that's not bad, perhaps it is just me. I also get a very clean feeling. Walking away from the track I am ready to get work done and start my day even if it is 11:00pm at night. 

The only downside to this track (if there is one) is the percussion work. Now this is where I interject my opinion and that is in regards to the percussion sounds on the song. I like the placement, approach and construction. However, the mix of the these elements highlights the "metal work". I would have liked to have heard more "punch" from the low-end frequencies. Granted this would have changed the overall vibe and given it more gusto playing down the "chill vibe" on display. Personally with such grand landscapes on display with jagged edges that run in opposite direction of the smooth filming and camera holding I just thought that it would have helped accentuate that. But in full disclosure, I'm a rock guy. I like heavy drums.

I think everyone should listen to this track, but if you are into electronic music of a subdued nature you will especially appreciate this piece. Those that care for Top 40 type material probably won't find enough bells and whistles here to keep an ADHD mind interested, but there is a craft here on display that should be appreciated. 

Check out the video: https://www.skypixel.com/videos/ascension-into-the-mountains?utm_source=copied&utm_medium=PCWeb&utm_campaign=share&sp=0&fbclid=IwAR0ryjaUUbjXk8Njgj7GTYQiacnou_t24V6dBeVMxKCLEDe8koNaGjJKJAU


Michael Smith

The Black Maniac: “All I Know”

Etherial tones open this tack from Ta Black Maniac. “All I Know” isn’t the cliche’ spin about money, women, drugs and cars. This lyrical journey is reflective in nature. The smooth synths in the background lays down a scene that is ideal for the dream like flashbacks that are revealed here. There is a great beat here that is anchored with a solid kick and snare interplay. While it’s not complex it allows for a great performance and accentuates the synths perfectly. Don’t be deceived by it’s simplicity. It’s very beautiful in the overall composition and the beat drops enough to keep you on your toes. 

Vocally the tones on display are great. They don’t see amateur or “over-acted”. The performance is real and in your face. You can tell that this is truth and real life lived. There isn’t really an apologies here. It’s a story about a man trying to live life the best he can but sometimes life gets in the way and you feel you gotta do what you gotta do. Production-wise this has been done very well. You can clearly hear the lyrics and understand them.  All the elements on display cut through the overall mix and have there own home, so that your ears have a banquet to feast on.

Okay, this is a rap, but I would recommend this to everyone.  I feel that this is great writing and a beautiful story is on display. It’s something that should be playing everywhere but isn’t. If you like rap and hip hop genres check it out but if you are someone who just likes a great story I don’t think you will regret spending 3:58 listening, but don’t be surprised if you find yourself putting this on repeat. I listened five times myself before I had to get up and go to work.

Check out the song: https://youtu.be/DJq5PXhcBck

Floral: "This Year"

With a burst of energy Floral open “This Year” with an array of percussion hits and notes that takes your mind on a journey through the recesses of your mind. Question is, will you like what you find? 

The pallet of my ears is well justified for the mix is in full blossom with all elements well represented. The guitars dance from foreground to the back while the bass is well represented from the sides allowing your hips to groove as you walk through the house. The drums pack the appropriate punch to get you to nod your head with the beat, all the while you don’t have to worry about spraining your neck. 

Being that this is an instrumental track, it lends the listener to have a blank canvas as to what the subject matter is. I find myself in the city at a crosswalk. The traffic is busy moving faster than normal and I have to make my way across so that I can get home. Having to time my moves just right I make it across the intersection and on my way. Weaving in and out of people and obstacles I finally find peace and end in arriving home. Any adventure of the mind and emotion could take place with this track in the back ground.

This track is just beautiful. I would recommend this track to those that like rock genres such as indie and prog. This track has a very uplifting feel to in and can help to be that sun rising on a cloudy day. 

Hats off to Floral with an excellent track for a Sunday afternoon. Check it out. It’s definitely worth the spin.

Check it out: https://floral1.bandcamp.com

by

Michael

Denis Sulta: In~Narito

I'll have to be honest there are some mornings where I just want every one to shut up so my brain can catch up and start my day. This track from Denis Sulta fits the bill nicely. It starts off innocent enough with a tight, kick drum that coaxes my heart to begin beating a bit more regular and awake rhythm. Once my senses have been primed a backbeat begins to arrive with swirling synths. As playful keyboard notes dance within my ears I find hope that the sun is out today to match the open leaping notes dancing in front of my face. As a descending sound effect is revealed I find that it's time for me to rise and see what this day may bring. I recommend this track to those that like Electronic music or EDM or people who just want to beak out of the mold and try something new, different and bold. This mini soundscape has much to offer and begs to be played multiple times. Stop, listen, be bold and  go. 

Visit: https://denissulta.bandcamp.com/album/aye-spoake-te-sumwuhn-they-listenhd

Michael Smith

Oldschool: "It's Alright By Me"

This is the type of song that will saunter up into your weekend and catch you off guard. It has a laid back shuffle to it which makes you want grab a great cup of coffee or an ice-cold beer and light a cigarette, even if it is 9:30am. Sometimes you need a quick vacation in the mind and this song suits that purpose. As I close my eyes and I see a beautiful, tall brunette walking towards me licking her lips daring to get into some trouble with her. Before she can sit down and say a word I’m on my feet heading out with her to her convertible to take off in a cloud of dust with the top down and this song on the radio. She’s dangerous and sometimes life needs to be, and yet I open my eyes and I am alone.

As a song stands, its solid. The performance is a bit loose and dangerous, just what a track like this calls for. I’m sure you’ll hear perfectionists out there groaning about the slight shifts in time and what not but this is a human song, played by real men with real passion and heart. The guitars from Chris and Gavin drift through the track like a dream but with true intentionality. It sounds as though it was recorded by plugging straight into the board and jamming out. Upon reading I see that it was cut live in the studio. The guitar sounds beautiful and holds it place well, but I got to admit that I am a fan of a mic’d acoustic. It’s more raw, and this is a song that displays raw human emotion. The guitar solo is sweet and to the point and helps to add musical swagger. It could have told a bit more of the story but it definitely didn’t wear out it’s welcome. The bass guitar in the hands of Ian sits a bit back in the mix and holds down the low end, but it has a great way of peeking out in the right places. Low and round I can almost see a woman’s hips sway as she walks away. As for the percussion work from Keith it is held back as well. It occupies it’s pocket solid and with the crack of the snare you can feel those high heels snap on the floor. There are no stadium fills going on here and that’s to the songs benefit. Such playing would have made this track feel less authentic. Its hard to play well to a song yet not crossing the line of overplaying it. Keith has shown how to walk the line and get the job done. Vocally the performance is top notch. The lyrics and their performance shine with the emotion and passion. The only down side is that the mic’s used didn’t catch a crisp and clear hi-end. There is a real smooth “rolled off” tone for the vocals. They don’t sound bad, the mic’s just don’t catch the sharp side of the feel in this cut. 

This is the type of song that you want on your playlist to help slow things up and enjoy the day. Oldschool does well to keeping things simple and to the point so that you can enjoy the ride with whom ever you choose. I would recommend this track to those who like Classic Rock, Folk, Pop and Acoustic singer/songwriter styles. So go and take a trip with Oldschool, after all they say, “It’s all right by me…”

Written by Michael Smith

The band

Chris Cole guitar/lead vocals

Gavin Edwards - guitar and backing vocals

Ian Cattell - bass and backing vocals

Keith Newstead - drums

Visit the band

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OldschoolHQ/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCciWk87VLSTiHV9XXbVp2Lg

Peat & Diesel: "Country Boy"

There are few things that can put a smile on my face like the unexpected accordion. This is a great track. I love the balance in the production. Everything shines through and is well heard. Now I have to be honest I clicked on "Folk Music". I was expecting some mellow acoustic guitar with a mellow vocals from a baritone man a or woman that would help me ease into this day. So much was my surprise when "Country Boy" from Peat & Diesel came rolling into my ears. This is what I really needed. They accordion is great but the guitars come in with just the right amount of grind that lets you know that this "Country Boy" isn't afraid to get a little dirt under his fingers. The percussion work remind me of laid back punk but they suit the song really well. I didn't hear the bass that much, maybe there wasn't one, but this track holds well with the mix the way it is. Lyrically this song touched me. I'm a bit of bumpkin myself out here in the sticks so the story about this man made me smile laugh and I have to say that if I wasn't so lazy I would have got of my ass and done did some dancing. Do yourself favor, listen to this song. You need to, your ears will thank you. Your heart will thank you.

Check out the band: https://peatanddiesel.bandcamp.com/album/uptown-fank

Destroyer: Have We Met

I really like the opening synth here. It makes me believe that anything is possible. As the vocals come in I am impressed. The tone opens my heart and the message is ready to be received. As the beat comes it it helps lay a sound foundation. Nothing fancy but it gets the job done and then, WHAM! The song blows wide open.

This is the type of song that I recommend for getting something done. So much in the world makes you want to go ,"BLAH I'm staying in bed", but this track helps you wake up and move on with your day. Aficionados may tell you that the voice it a bit pitchy or that they lyrical content is contrite but this (to me) is a one of those real songs from an authentic artist. Do yourself a favor, schedule yourself a mini vacation and crank this song. This isn't something that is made for low volumes. It is one that should blast from your speakers and out to the mountain tops.

So blow off the nay-sayers, be yourself and embrace a song that could quite possibly be your new theme song for life or just today. It will be what you make it.

Find the band: https://destroyer.bandcamp.com/album/have-we-met