Chatterless - This Fun Might Kill Us

Review by Karl Magi

Overall Album Impressions

Chatterless’ This Fun Might Kill Us has a tenuous, yearning quality that lends it a sense of vulnerability. There’s a gentle glow permeating the music, leavened by energetic moments, while synths lushly intertwine and the low end shapes the other auditory elements. I feel both calmed and melancholy listening to this album.

Nostalgic, mournful emotion is a hallmark of Chatterless’ sound on This Fun Might Kill Us. There’s peace in the music, but it is soft-edged and tinged with an aching feeling. There are bright moments to leaven the more melancholic emotions, but the pangs remain part of the music.

All of the synths on This Fun Might Kill Us are well-curated to mingle and contrast with one another. The gentler, more enfolding sonic elements are balanced with rougher or more hopeful sounds to form a cohesive sound. I enjoy the multiplicity of emotions and sensations that the different synths produce.

I’ll also add that I’m drawn to the way in which Chatterless can evoke feelings with instrumental synth music. Just because the music isn't produced by acoustic instruments doesn’t mean that it can’t still create emotion. I feel that Chatterless shows a good deal of skill in using synth sounds to produce expressive music.

My Favourite Tracks Analyzed

"Today Is Tomorrow” comes to life as the sound of a door being shut is joined by glittering synth flashing to life. Rounded, nasal-sounding synth drifting as fat, dense bass bounces in a dynamic pattern. The snare drum forms an active beat as it intertwines with the bass. High, flickering synth carries a roaming melodic line over the hard-hitting drums.

Full-sounding synth interacts with a glowing higher synth sound in a drifting line that lends it a pleasingly desolate sensation. Underneath it, thick bass throbs and strong drums provide a guiding beat. Glimmering, elevated synth wriggles and twines through the track before soothing synth flows into quiet.

Powerful bass pulses in an uneven line underneath ticking drums to commence “Balcony Views.” A soft focus synth trickles in easily moving cascades as a guitar-like synth flows. now full, rich synth moves in a gently pulsating and caressing pattern.

Shining, guitar-like synth sings out in a wonderfully calming melody. Warm synth glides as thick bass bounces below it. Smooth-sounding synth moves in undulating ripples while a higher, more diffuse synth carries the tranquil melody and the taut, flickering higher synth fades out.

“This  Fun Might Kill Us” starts as gleaming, faintly rough synth slips and ticking drums pulse. Broad, string-like synth trembles as it carries a melody full of dreamy emotion above a massively throbbing drum and bass heartbeat. Smoother, medium-low synth with a resonant quality takes up the hopeful melody. Arpeggios slowly revolve and the drums and bass effectively anchor the music as they throb.

Glistening arpeggios whirl until the track flows into a segment in which peace-filled, tender synth drifts. Drums tick again as elevated, softly touching notes sound and cascading arpeggios twirl below the feathery melody as the drumbeat guides the track before silence falls as sparkling chimes fade.

Softened synth flows along with elevated sparkles to start “Immortal Surfer.”  Slowly pulsing, solid bass is joined by unevenly throbbing snare drum and a lightly touching hi hat.  Luscious golden-toned synth slides through the music, radiating a sense of compassion that draws me in.

Drums drop out as a medium-high, hollow synth carries a tenuous melodic line below sparkling arpeggios. Rebounding drums and rich bass form a shaping pulse below the airily flickering melody. There’s a breathy ease that mingles hope and something aching in the melody before the track ends.

“Room Service” opens with muffled sounds that flow as glimmering synth sings out a positive melody as drums sharply scrape and tick, effectively supporting the melody’s hopeful emotions.

Now the full drum kit hits to propel the music forward as breathy chimes drift ethereally above the melody as it shines with encouraging light. Rich bass bubbles up to support the other musical elements while drums shape the music. Far above, airy panpipes breathe with pacific light in contrast to the more energetic melody.

A wave washes through and the drums fade briefly before tapping back into action. The main melody sings as the panpipes exhale calmly and the drumbeat ticks along while a wave washes again and silence falls.

Evenly rippling arpeggios spin out in a steadily moving wave to bring “Sunset Flow” into being. Sparkling synth adds a glinting light and the drums move in, propelling the track with lively motion. Nasal-sounding, ringing synth flashes out in twinkling light. I enjoy the way in which the main melody is delicate, but imbued with yearning.

The throbbing drumbeat and lush bass move the track forward as they pulsate far below. There’s a thoughtfulness in the main melody as continually swirling arpeggios add depth while the drums press on and the bass uplifts the track. Medium-high, glistening synth sings out tenderly as the beat and bass drive on to a conclusion.

Conclusion

This Fun Might Kill Us is synth music with expression and feeling at its heart. Chatterless has skilfully woven together synth sounds to make the listener feel intense emotion. I enjoy being transported on this delicate, melancholy journey upon which I am taken by the music.

Powerkørd - Retrocede

Review by Karl Magi

Overall Album Impressions

Powerkørd’s Retrocede is a tale of danger, darkness and a glimmer of light trying to break through. The album combines strong melodies with well chosen synth sounds, intimidating bass and dominating drumbeats to produce intense musical imagery. I enjoy the aural tale that Powerkørd weaves as this sonic journey carries forward.

Powerkørd’s melodies on Retrocede have clarity and expression woven into them. I enjoy the way in which each melody unfolds a small story within an individual track, contributing to the overall album arc. The emotions and imagery contained within them are engaging and dramatic in a way that enhances the storytelling aspect of the music.

Synths have an enormous capacity for creating wildly varied sonic palettes and Retrocede showcases that capacity well. Powerkørd has carefully drawn together a mixture of snarling, flowing, shining and textural synth sounds. He layers and interweaves, contrasts and complements different synths as he tells us the album’s story.

The mass and heft of the bass and the percussion on Retrocede contribute to the portentous, endangered sensations that fill the music. There’s an ominpresent shadow that lurks in the album’s underpinnings and helps lend the tracks a sense that some imminent threat is about to manifest itself.

My Favourite Tracks Analyzed

"Waiting In Darkness” begins as a steady drone with a tinge of threat is joined by gruff, sharp synths slowly moving in echoing notes that rise and fall. A thick bass pulse adds weight and anchors the track as rippling, medium-high digital synth arpeggiates and reverberates in minor key lines.

Now arpeggios spin continuously over steadily throbbing, dense bass as cosmic sound whorls drift out above it. Medium-low, rough-edged synth carries an energizing, dramatic melody that slices with well-crafted triumph above a bass oscillation and in between haunted, higher notes that fade away as the track ends.

Buzzing notes tremble ominously as they writhes above gritty bass and below hollow, distant synth to start “Incarcerated.” Fat, trumpet-like synth carries a melody that’s both delicate and agonized as the drums smoothly throb. A thick bass oscillation moves the music below the shifting, airy, open-voiced synth.

Medium-high, nasal-sounding synth dances in oboe-like, gentle arpeggios that grow in volume and glow as they flutter in a pleasingly melancholy line. Muted, rounded trumpeting synth carries a slowly hurting melody while shining notes gleam above the slightly corrugated bass and smoothly guiding drums. The track ends on the hollowness and float.

“The Brotherhood” opens as flashing, metallic synth cascades in rapidly intertwining, rushing notes.  Massive synth flows underneath in huge, charging slabs while heavy bass rises and a propulsive snare and kick drum combo are joined by flourishing toms.

Crushing synth walls are cut by glittering, elevated synth gliding above colossal bass and towering synth. I enjoy the majesty of that gigantic synth sound. The bass is thick below medium-high, nasal sounding synth with a wobbling quality that carries a victorious, rushing melody.

The main melody adds an urgent feeling above rippling bass and steady hi hat pulse. Interlocking, wildly spinning synth falls and the kick drum and hi hat add shape while the huge synth flows out and silence falls.

Tranquil synth slips into the music above rich bass, carrying a pained and soothing melody tinged by a wistful, fragile chime to begin “Guided By A Fallen Star.” A smooth snare drum and light hi hat add percussive direction below the tremulous, airy melody that beautifully creates a peaceful sensation.

Starry synth dreams above the lightly touching drums as they shape the music.  Warmly singing, high synth floats out in a reassuring melody that runs soft hands over the soul as the drums steadily flutter. Tumbling, flickering synth sparkles above the lead synth melody, so full of calming and settling emotion. The melody drifts alone above the bass before ending.

“Join the Fold” commences as sinister bass pulses with blunt force, heavy with dark intent. A high sound ramps up and  heavily hitting drums intertwine with gnarly bass to create slowly propulsive motion.  Gritty, medium-low synth effectively carries a melody both tragic and triumphant above the great weight below it.

Drums batter and funky bass adds a strong groove as hard-edged lead synth carries a weighty, muscled melody. The melody’s wild movement reaches upwards with yearning nobility as massive drums crash and the dark bass surges. A smoother, airier secondary synth roams in a wistful melodic line.

Now the track drifts into a gentle segment in which metallic, digital-sounding synth trembles below bright notes illuminating the interlocking bass and drums. Shimmering, chiming synth carries a lambent  melodic pattern with a melancholy tinge. Smoothly swirling synth shines above the drum and bass propulsion before silence falls.

Reverberant, glowing synth slowly ripples into “The Shadow Dance” with a hint of troubled emotion as it is hit by a threatening, jagged bass wave that shivers far below. The bass forms a rushing throb as elevated arpeggios slowly turn. Metallic percussion adds a clashing feeling above the  seething, gruff bass.

Arpeggios flash warning as a high, fluting sound cuts in.  After a gong sounds, victorious synth trumpets as a chorus of shadowy voices calls out and jangling percussion throbs. The entire track does a superb job of conveying staggering power and a sense of dominant danger before silence falls.

“Under Thundering Skies” opens as thunder cracks and rain pours. Battering bass oscillates rapidly as a snare drum rushes into a speeding beat. Assaulting synth slabs growl in a dynamic pattern and smoother, shimmering synth dances out in a surprisingly uplifting melodic line.

Throbbing drums and urgent bass add intense motion and strength. Now gliding, hollow synth dances in a melody that has a hint of aching and a caressing feeling above the driving weight underneath it. There’s a lonely quality in the glittering synth that I appreciate.

Steady choral sound  flows as the hard-edged drums and massive bass shape the swirling main melody.  Drums keep pressing on as rounded, brassy synth howls with an energetic melody, tinged with threat. After a drum flourish, truly huge synth rumbles above bass motion and silence falls.

Soothing synth flows, as a darker synth hints at troubled feelings to start “Retrocede.” Bursting, gargantuan synth flares out in a towering wall as a pounding kick drum heaves underneath it and reverent sounds flow. A snare drum moves along with muscled bass as a flowing, smooth synth slides in above it.

After a drum fill, the track drives on with lightly drifting, worshipful synth above the dangerous weight below it. I am drawn to the strength of those contrasting elements. Medium-low, shimmering synth sings out a propulsive, yearning melody as it climbs.

Gently reverent synth flows and powerful drums and bass shove forward with slow strength. High, open-voiced synth adds a hurting, but dreamy melody before the track ends.

Conclusion

Retrocede takes a rich, layered approach to synth music that is combined with strong melodic sensibilities, a flair for the dramatic and sonic storytelling. Powerkørd has a knack for unfolding a tale through music and I enjoy being taken on that journey.

Dopesketch - Electronic Dope

Review by Karl Magi

Overall Album Impressions

Dopesketch’s Electronic Dope is full of truly colossal bass, fascinating percussion and a unique series of sonically interacting, synthesized “earscapes.” Dopesketch continues to refine his creative, individual approach to electronic music and synthesis with this album. The end result has a mesmeric quality to it that interests me.

All of the synth sounds that fill Electronic Dope have constantly intriguing textures and sonic signatures that keep my ears tingling. I enjoy the way in which Dopesketch combines contrasting timbral and tonal elements to weave intricate, unmistakable soundscapes that ensnare my ears.

Percussive sounds come in a luscious plethora on Electronic Dope. Their variety and interesting auditory signatures provide more opportunities for Dopesketch to create rhythm and motion in his music. The end result are beats that interlock to move the music in fascinating ways.

An underlying current of powerful bass forms a strong underpinning for the tracks on the album. There’s a tidal energy permeating the music on the album to add shape to it. The way in which the other auditory elements are supported by the bass allows them to work better as a whole.

My Favourite Tracks Analyzed

“Monday Night” starts off as thudding bass is broken by stuttering, computerized sounds and a hollow, twisting noise. Warmly swirling chords move above flashing cymbals as crystalline synth chimes descend in a gently sparkling melodic pattern.

The melody contrasts well with the underlying sonic weight. Hollow synth shifts above heavy drums and bass as caressing, full chords massage the ears. Gigantic drums and dense bass throb while the scudding, digital sounding synth trips through the music.

Enfolding synth chords flow up and now broad, bouncing synth notes are split by glittering chimes. Skittering digital sounds interact with the chimes as swelling chords tremble along with rippling, rich synth notes.

Piano-like notes jangle into the music’s open spaces with a roaming feeling to open “Seamstress.” Densely throbbing bass and an entangling, intense sonic pulse keep moving as drums jump and pop. High notes flicker as bouncing drums pound and piano notes flit along while a chugging sound moves below them.

There’s an intriguing layered, tightly packed feeling to this track’s sound. Extended notes sweep with gruff edges, contrasting with the wildly voyaging piano as gleaming synth flickers. An engine-like chugging rumbles along with the drums as they skip along with expanding digital sounds.

“Jersey Girl” begins as wobbling, metallic synth trembles along with tight, angular notes moving in a mournful pattern. Drums form a guiding and varied rhythm below broad, gruff synth shifting along with metallic chimes. Fat, lower synth is effectively interspersed in between shivering, metallic synths creating a hypnotic motion as they play off the lower sound.

The drums return after fading to trip along smoothly. Raised, twisting synth has an unsettling feeling compared to the anchoring sounds that drop down through the music. Tremulous synth moves along with a computerized sound in the trance-inducing pattern with an energetic quality.

Meandering synth with a digitized sound plays off against softer synth whorls to open “Pirates.” The drumbeat rattles and the bass creaks below it. The denser, wider-spectrum synth has an enfolding feeling and the higher synth creates an effective contrast with its round and rich sound.

There’s a dreaming quality in the melodic pattern as drums skip and pop above underlying bass weight. A wistful feeling permeates the melody as it trades off between synths. Drums thump and trip to guide the track while gruff bass grunts and throbs as synths intertwine. The melody glides on before fading.

“Dance Reels” starts as a misty, distorted keyboard carries diffuse, lost-feeling notes over hard-hitting bass, clapping percussion and metallic tapping. Metallic notes ring out as the vibrating, shivering keyboard sounds are touched by computerized notes.

Clashing, jumping percussion contrasts with distant keyboard to set up a complex, interesting sonic pattern. Digital-sounding notes shake through, feeling uncertain while the keyboard rambles before silence falls.

Rebounding, rapidly moving percussion shifts below threatening, full-sounding synth to commence “Excited Subjects.” 8 bit noises zip and wriggle into the music as a hollow, tense synth pops while bass oscillates.

Cosmic, echoing synth moves with sparkling, twittering sounds while hard-edged, dark bass climbs. A steady synth pulsation is joined by an undulating, tinkling sound. I enjoy the segment in which clapping flows into gently caressing sounds and elevated notes interlock as popping, pulsing percussion shifts and silence falls.

“Belly Bizz” starts with broadly trembling, radiant synth echoes out in glowing lines as heavy bass throbs and colossal drums rebound. A full, medium-high synth flashes and flutters above the brighter synth jumping into the track.

I enjoy the warm, drifting melody as it cries out. Gigantic drums pulse and thick bass fills the track’s low end. Sunlit, flaring synth weaves a twisting pattern as the medium-high synth melody floats out in a distorted line. Drums bounce heavily and fade as the synth flares above it gleam with energetic light.

Gruff, medium-low synth is guided by hollow, unique percussion and heavier battering drums along with rich bass opens “Firefly.” Gritty synth vibrates in slowly shifting lines as resonant percussion fades briefly.

Computerized sounds drift as rough-edged synth repeats and hollow, pounding drums echo in an ear pleasing, percussive tide. Tapping percussion moves as massive drums thunder and a repeating, medium-low synth pulse hypnotizes. Quick synth lines stutter and fade away interspersed with broken sounds.

“44oz” kicks off as a steady bass drone and bursting drums move with slowly interlocking, medium-high synth pulses. Actively moving bass throbs regularly as scraping, twisting sounds shift above it and big drums thud.

Above them, a shivering synth trembles and gleaming, distorted notes carry a shaky melodic pulse. Richly resonant synth moves in gruff lines that form an interesting contrast with the tremulous sounds. The drumbeat keeps thumping and high sounds cut in and out as the undulating bass pulse moves in active lines until the track ends.

Diffuse, smoothly flowing background synth is guided by massive drums to open “Knock Twice.” Shimmering synth climbs and roams in rapid motion with a sharp brightness above the echoing, misty background.

Starry sparkling flickers out in a way that draws me to it as the lead melody dances along with rising light. The drumbeat strikes weightily and steady, deep bass moves below it. Raised synth with a cutting shine flits along with softly intermingled background synth.

“Mocaljete” begins as dense, rich bass throbs. Soft-edged, metallic synth flows in an all encompassing, tender melody over the hard-hitting, guiding drums. High synth motes float like dust in the sun.

Lower, warming synth notes flow out in a charming, glistening line as heavy bass pulses and the drums jump and trip. Rounded synth notes drift in a glowing melodic line and the track fades on diverse, unique percussion and thick bass.

Digital sounding synth sparkles, interspersed with repeating high sound to create a trance-inducing motion to start “December 7th.” Muscled bass heaves along with powerful drums in a strong rhythmic motion that I find engaging. Alternating organ-like synth and a steady, elevated sound throb regularly over the top of thunderous drums as distorted, digital notes flash and silence falls.

Conclusion

Electronic Dope represents a further growth in Dopesketch’s signature sound. His ability to make music with intricate, nuanced and heavily textural qualities has continued to grow and I enjoy hearing the results of that growth.

My Favourite Albums of 2022

Article by Karl Magi

Introduction

In my work as a synth music reviewer, I listen to a huge amount of music in a year and trying to pick my favourite albums out of all it is a tall order. The synth community produces a great deal of excellent music and trying to decide on “the best” sends me back to the writing desk time and again. In the end, these albums represent the music I find myself coming back to over and over again. I hope you’ll enjoy reading through and getting a flavour of the music that I felt most engaged by in 2022.

The Future Kids - ‘80s Dreams

80s Dreams found its way onto my list because it oozes neon from every musical pore. The album is unashamedly retro and brimming over with nostalgia. I love it because it celebrates the idealized experience of an ‘80s childhood about which we all dream, even if it never existed.

The melodic strength of this album is another reason why it would up on my list of favourite albums for the year. The Future Kids write melodies that soothe and ache, but also burst with energy and life. I find the pastel-tinted sense of possibility enormously appealing in these dark times.

High production quality is another reason for 80s Dreams winding up on my list of favourite albums. The production manifests itself in the mixture of richness and pin sharp clarity that permeates the album. As a result of the sonic detail, the emotional content of the music is even more impactful.

I couldn’t resist the mixture of neon-drenched sounds, emotive melodic content and high production values that pours from 80s Dreams and that is why I’ve included it on my list of favourite albums for 2022.

L’Avenue - Riviera

The sheer tranquility and peaceful glide of L’Avenue’s Riviera makes it one of my favourite albums to have reviewed in 2022. I love the way in which it carries me off to cerulean water lapping against intensely white sand as a brilliant sun glows above the scene.

All of the soothing feelings emanating from the album’s gliding, enfolding synth palette are deeply enjoyable to me. There’s a pastel-hued sensibility that permeates all of the synths and puts me into a deeply peaceful mental state.

Eliza Devane and George Holliday’s vocal talents are another compelling reason why this album was a favourite. They lend a great deal of expression to L’Avenue’s lyrics that conjure vivd imagery in my mind. I also find the passionate, resonant sax add heartfelt feeling to the music.

Riviera’s evocative, caressing nature makes it one of my 2022 favourites. The journey on which the music takes me is a chance to catch my breath and let go of the world’s worries. These days I feel like that’s a precious gift.

Russell Nash - Do Or Die

The way in which Russell Nash’s Do Or Die explodes with retro synth sounds and powerful melodies makes in one of my favourite albums to have reviewed in 2022. It revels in nostalgic synth sounds while having razor-sharp production values. I am compelled by the album’s emotional energy.

Russell Nash’s ability to craft strong melodies pulls me into the album. Each melody has clarity and a catchy core while exploring rich emotional terrain. Like all of the best melodists, he is able to mingle shifting feelings into a single melody. The strength of these melodies is a major factor in making it a favourite of mine for the year.

The combination of classic synth sounds with novel approaches to their use is another important factor in making this a favourite album of mine this year. The way in which the synths are used to craft intricate and detailed soundscapes carry me along on an auditory adventure.

There’s a real dynamism in the music on this album that pulls me into it. All of the sonic elements from the massive drums and oscillating bass to the energetic synths flow together to create music that rushes and flies. The energy levels on this album are infectious.

I am a sucker for artists who can make music that is full of joy and Do Or Die feels deeply joyful to me. Russell Nash revels in the retro-nostalgic music he creates and that sheer pleasure is what made this one of my favourite albums to have reviewed in 2022.

Peacecraft - Songs For When The World Ends

Vulnerability, fragility and aching emotion flow from Peacecraft’s Songs For When The World Ends. I am deeply touched by the album and that emotional core made it a favourite of mine for 2022. Moments of tenuous hope run through it which only makes it more affecting.

Feeling and sensitivity characterize the piano performances and compositions on the album in a way I find undeniably appealing. Peacecraft’s compositional skills and piano playing lay bare his soul in a profoundly touching way.

Uncertainty, loss and melancholy fill the album in an engaging way as tremulous, twisting sounds and fragile piano weave together. Resonant strings and accenting synths contribute a pleasing depth to the album’s emotive nature.

The production by Jacket is a contributory factor to my enjoyment of the album as it gives Peacecraft’s composition and performances added depth and breadth. His approach opens up the soundstage and allows the music to breathe.

The sheer emotional power of Songs For When The World Ends is the reason why it goes on my list of 2022 favourite albums to have reviewed. I find it as moving and touching each time I hear it as I did on first listening to the album.

Pashang - Void

I selected Void as one of my favourite albums to have reviewed this year because it weaves together threads of sweeping majesty, fragility and pained emotion into an intensely pleasing synthscape. I find myself drawn into the music in a most compelling way.

A full range of ear-catching synth sounds intertwine in intriguing ways on this album. I find their complexity and depth strongly engaging as they move from magnificently massive bass into shimmering astral light. I also enjoy the textural variations that range from gritty growl to fragile chiming.

I also find the sensation of galactic vistas being revealed as the music unfolds strongly appealing. The mixture of cosmic bass with fascinatingly interlinked synth layers has a way of painting starry images across my mind’s canvas. The album makes me feel ready to explore the universe.

Melodies are something to which my ear is naturally drawn and Pashang capably crafts them on this album. They have an expressive quality that can fill a single track’s melody with a range of emotions from mournful to victorious. The synths chosen to carry each melody also tend to reinforce their emotive strength.

In the end, it is the way that Pashang takes me on a subtle, complex and deeply felt synth voyage across a vast astral canvas that made Void one of my favourite albums to have reviewed in 2022.

Peter Gagliardi - Artwave

I chose Peter Gagliardi’s Artwave as one of my 2022 favourite reviewed albums because of the sweeping operatic feeling that it exudes as it unfolds. It has the spirit of a colossal sci-fi space epic combined with luscious synth layers and emotional power.

The sensation of being in a spacecraft crossing the vast stretches of interplanetary space that Artwave captures is another reason that I put this album on my favourites list for 2022. The way in which all of the various sonic elements are combined results in music capable of drawing vivid images of outer space in my mind.

Expressive melodies that hold mingled emotions as they unfold are also draw me into this album. Each melody is clearly delineated and they carry me through rich emotional terrain as they travel through the music. I deeply enjoy Peter Gagliardi’s strong focus on melodic writing on this album.

The level of detail in synth use also pulled me toward the album. All of the synths used are carefully combined in layers that interact in ear-catching ways. Tonal colour, sonic texture and timbre are varied and complement or contrast with each other to form entrancing auditory moments.

In the world’s current state of upheaval, Artwave takes hold of my mind and carries me across cosmic soundscapes. I find that I can become absorbed in the sonic world that Peter Gagliardi creates in a rather pleasing and edifying way.

Aeronexus - Aeon Intergrade

Aeronexus’ Aeon Intergrade goes on my favourite reviewed albums list because it is full of complex sonic layers that are intricately detailed along with ear-grabbing melodies that evoke a pulse-pounding, intergalactic voyage.

All of the intense, clear melodies carry deep emotion in a way that makes the album stand out for me. As each melodic segment evolves, it expresses a wide variety of emotional content from aching pain to rising energy in a memorable way.

Aeronexus’ musical guests also help to put this album on my 2022 favourites list. Dimi Kaye’s talented guitar chops add intricacy, Draven contributes dark shadows and a classical music sensibility and Tim Capello unleashes his fiery sax with wild abandon.

Unique and well-combined synth sounds also drew me into this album. I especially enjoy the choral synth sounds that contribute majestic energy and synths with quite hard to define but fascinating auditory textures. The way in which Aeronexus integrates all of the synths creates an irresistible sound.

Aeon Intergrade finds its way onto my list of favourites because it represents the pinnacle of the Aeronexus sound which is one I have enjoyed ever since I first became aware of his music. It was an adventure in listening!

Cat Temper - Meow At The Moon

I chose Meow At The Moon for inclusion on my favourites list because it is a truly entertaining listening experience. The album is drenched in a super fun retro horror movie sensibility. I like the fact that Cat Temper takes music making seriously while retaining a light-hearted attitude.

One of the reasons I’ve included the album on my list is the high quality melodies that Cat Temper has written for it. The melodies are grabbing and seem to have been designed to heighten the creepy, dangerous atmosphere that permeates the music. I find myself humming them after listening.

I also dig the interlocking synth parts on the album that explore all of the sonic variety of which synthesizers are capable. The way that the synths can growl demonically, trail ghostly tendrils and howl with terrifying intensity add to the cinematic feeling of terror that fills this album to the brim.

Theatricality is another feature of this album that draws me in. I like the mixture of horror elements that aren’t taken too seriously. Cat Temper has fun with creating auditory imagery that sends shivers down the spine while dark shadows boil up and reach their evil fingers out towards me.

Ultimately I have included Meow At The Moon amongst my favourite 2022 albums because it combines playfulness with musical skill. Cat Temper knows how to create well-crafted tunes but he never forgets to have fun along the way.

Draven - Abyssal Arcana

Terrifying shadows fill Draven’s Abyssal Arcana as the album’s growing terror is unleashed in a ferocious tide of darkness. It is that unrelenting feeling of danger that makes it one of my favourite albums to have reviewed this year.

The overwhelming power and weight of the musical elements is one reason I am so engaged by the album. The drums create an abyssal storm, the bass is crushing and the dramatic orchestral instruments and dangerous synths move in muscled lines. This is music that flat out looms.

I am also compelled by the horrifying sonic imagery that Draven creates. Fear, nervousness and tension all mingle to create a sensation of ominous evil that may strike at any moment and from any direction. I love the chills that this music sends through me as I listen.

A growing tide of keening strings, howling Theremin and pounding drums combine with complexity in the synth layers to bring the sense of terror to a fever pitch. I feel myself being dragged violently into the lurking shadows and held captive within them.

Mingled darkness, raging bloodlust and never ending sensations of danger pour from Abyssal Arcana in a way that pulls me in deep. I had to add this album to the list because I find Draven’s musical approach so engaging.

Terrordyne - The Dead Will Walk the Earth

The way in which Terrordyne’s The Dead Will Walk the Earth is veiled in miasmic fog, churns with rage and slavers hungrily makes it one of my favourite albums to have reviewed in 2022. It is unrelentingly terrifying in the best possible way and I love the horror movie vibe that fills it.

The dread-filled atmosphere makes this album so appealing to me as Terrordyne has filled it with crushing fear and a horrible lurking sensibility. The mixture of a bass onslaught with a shattering drum attack and howling, screaming synth sounds drenches the music in unceasing hunger and soul-sucking darkness.

A solid musical collaboration between Terrordyne, Dan Dave Larson and LordNikøn is another reason for my enjoyment of this album. All of these artists understand how to imbue music with a terror-filled feeling and their creative cross-pollination helps pile on the fear in a most pleasingly chilling way.

The powerful emotional pull that musical contrasts within the album exert on me is another reason for including it on my favourites list. When the unrelenting darkness is pierced by poignant emotion, it serves to make the pain more intense and the shadows even more threatening.

The Dead Will Walk The Earth captures all of the existential dread of a zombie invasion and for that reason I had to include it on the list of favourite reviews for 2022. I’ve never enjoyed feeling intense dread in quite the same way before.

Victor Roy - The Curse of the Daydreamer

I chose Victor Roy’s The Curse of the Daydreamer for my 2022 favourite reviewed albums list because of the way in which it tells tales of grand adventures, forgotten lands and epic journeys. The album skilfully combines a lush synth palette, engaging melodies and the soul of a storyteller.

One of the reasons I have this album on my 2022 favourites list is the way in which the synths used by Victor Roy capture the moods and emotional tenor of his compositions. They are intriguing to my ears and encourage my imagination to roam freely through the album’s soundscapes.

Touching, deeply expressive melodies are another reason I included The Curse Of The Daydreamer on my 2022 favourites list. I enjoy how well composed the melodies are as they explore the complexity of human feelings without overdoing it. They manage to create nuance through emotional juxtaposition.

I am also drawn to the ways in which the synth instruments, melody and harmony combine to sweep me away on a thrilling adventure through fantastical realms. I enjoy the album’s ability to transport me away from workaday concerns.

The Curse Of The Daydreamer found its way onto my 2022 list of favourite reviewed albums because it effectively carries me away and lets me escape for a while into a place in which adventure and storytelling reign.

Blue Nagoon - Here Be Dragons

I included Here Be Dragons on my list of favourite albums I reviewed in 2022 because it is a richly woven musical tapestry that freely roams between genres, emotional states and intriguing soundscapes. Blue Nagoon (Michael Maas) and his guest artists’ mingled talents come together to form an intensely enjoyable album.

All of the wonderfully emotional and powerful vocal performances on the album are a major reason for including it on my list. Each vocalist brought their own unique style and beauty to the songs and skilfully interpreted Michael Maas’ well-crafted lyrics.

The satisfying guitar performances that are delivered with flair by Michael Maas also made it one of my favourites of the year. The guitar skill he demonstrates fill the music with expressive soul as they roam across many genres. I also enjoy Elevate The Sky’s excellent solo on “Withernsea”

Diversity and variety characterize the intricately interwoven synth sounds and help add depth to the album. The sounds are full of character and work together across a broad spectrum of influences to create ear-pleasing auditory imagery as they unfold.

Ultimately Here Be Dragons is on my year end favourites list because it keeps me spellbound with its emotional expression, vocal power and engaging sonic imagery. I enjoy the way that it moves beyond strict genre definitions to showcase superb music.

INDIGO- by Indigo

Indigo’s INDIGO fuses her distinctive voice with Steve Wilcoxson’s intriguing synths and her songwriting that cuts to the heart of the matter. I find this fusion so successful that it compels me to include this album on my list of favourites for 2022. This is adult pop music that explores complicated emotional terrain in an effective way.

The strength of Indigo’s voice is a major factor in making this one of my favourite albums this year. The way in which her voice captures vulnerability underpinned by strength is deeply engaging. Tenderness can become seduction and delicacy can exude power in a way that captivates me.

Clarity and directness characterize Indigo’s songwriting in a way that allows her to drive her point home with expressive depth and makes this album so appealing to me. I made an intensely emotional connection to her songwriting that keeps me coming back for more.

Steve Wilcoxson’s synth work contributes to my interest in this album. He keeps Indigo’s voice upmost in the mix while using his talent to interweave many unique tonal, timbral and textural sonic elements into an evocative supporting structure for the song writing and singing talents of our lead singer.

The way in which emotion, musical richness and Indigo’s songwriting come together here makes for an irresistible package and that is why INDIGO has made it onto my list of favourite albums that I reviewed in 2022.

Symbion Project - Saturnine

Mars Nord and Kasson Crooker (Symbion Project) have created an album in Saturnine that is full of melancholy, aching emotion and fragility in such a poignant way that it became one of my favourite albums to have reviewed in 2022. I find it powerfully affecting each time I hear it.

The way in which Mars Nord imbues his songwriting with intense vulnerability creates an elegiac emotional strength in the album that made it one of my favourites of the year. His emotive voice brims over with intense feeling and deepens the beauty in his lyrics to touch my heart. There is tragic yearning pouring from him in each song.

Kasson Crooker paints mournful soundscapes with trembling, shadowed piano melodies which draw me into the album. The synth elements are anchored by towering drums and dense bass. Each layer of synth sound builds another emotional layer into the music, using unique textures and timbres to add depth.

Saturnine combines Mars Nord and Kasson Crooker’s impressive musical abilities in a way that cuts right to my heart and makes it one of my favourite reviewed albums in 2022. I love the fact that it still speaks of hope, even in the face of loss and pain.

Eva X - I Dream of a Reality

The shadowy, fierce power and sometimes challenging emotional content of Eva X’s I Dream of a Reality made it one of my favourite albums to have reviewed in 2022. The way in which the album combines Eva X’s unique voice with her powerful lyrics and lacerating synth background creates a wonderful intensity.

Eva X’s vocal strength is one of the reasons this album is a favourite for me. Her voice can ooze seduction, crack like a whip or exude defiance. The way in which she can use her voice allows her to fully capture all of the emotion written into her lyrics.

Another way in which the album attracts me to it is the high quality of the lyrics written for it. Eva X combines an ability to dissect social issues, express deep emotion and create inspiration in her writing. Her fearless songwriting cuts right to the heart of things in a way that I enjoy.

Sheer musical ferocity is a factor in my great enjoyment of the album. There are slicing synths, Stygian bass rumble and percussive attacks that ram the music forward aggressively. The introduction of lighter, gentler elements creates intriguing contrasts that I quite like.

An evocative mixture of emotional vulnerability, righteous anger and shadow fills I Dream Of A Reality in a way that I find utterly engaging. I am compelled to add this album to my list of favourites by the sheer expressive power which fills it.