The Last Concorde - Flashback

Review by Karl Magi

Overall Album Impressions

The Last Concorde’s Flashback casts a synth spell that transports listeners into an alternate ‘80s universe while keeping the sounds fresh and intriguing. The mixture of intricate sonic layers, attractive melodies and talented musical guests results in a deeply pleasing album.

The synth palette on Flashback is brimful with a plethora of ear-grabbing sounds. The way in which The Last Concorde combines those richly varied auditory elements elevates them to greater heights. I am drawn in by the luscious tonal range, fascinating textures and massively active low end rhythms. This is synth music that bathes me in musical bliss.

Melodies that are heartwarming and engaging abound on Flashback. There is often an emotive quality, full of ache, that fills even the more upbeat melodies. I enjoy the sense of longing for a time past or perhaps one that has never really existed that fills the music on this album.

I am also pleased by the inclusion of Dreamkid and Emma Ballantine from The Lightning Kids in the musical package. They each have distinctive vocal styles that complement the overall feeling on the album. They help make it as strongly engaging as possible with their contributions.

My Favourite Tracks Analyzed

"Flashback I” begins as resonant chimes sparkle and grow in volume while bass swells up underneath. Hollow percussion forms a popping pulse that doubles angular chimes. A flat drum sound creates a bursting beat above luscious bass and below hypnotic chimes.

Gliding synth drifts past in the distance, adding an open quality to the track. Scintillating chimes interlock in an entrancing pattern with the shaping drumbeat. Shimmering notes flicker as luminous synth trembles as the drums punch, Broadly sliding glistening synth fills the background while chimes impart a pleasing solar light to the proceedings.

A more peaceful feeling contrasts with intense glow while the solid drums continue to add form. The medium-high, sweeping synth becomes more pronounced as it calls out before fading out with tapping percussion and flickering chimes.

Distantly rippling notes trickle through open space in rapid motion as air flows to open “Wet Dreams” Huge, undulating bass is joined by slamming drums as elevated, metallic notes whirl in steady motion.

Funky bass adds to the groove as colossal drums propel the track while lushly entangling synth flows in the background. Toms pop in before the track glides with serene ease. Heaving bass supports sparkling synth as it spins with slap bass accents.

Massive drums surge as blissed-out, creamily slipping synth tangles into a wonderful sense of magenta relaxation. Sharply flashing, revolving notes keep on moving above the muscled strength of percussion and bass. There’s a flowing moment of pause before the track jumps and whirls into silence.

“All I Need Is You” starts as heavily throbbing, gigantic drums are touched by sparkling chimes before oscillating bass forms a propulsive pattern. Dreamkid’s passionate voice carries a yearning melody over driving drums and bass.

Raised synths flicker with gentle light and the chorus soars up as drums guide the music over the pulsating bass. The vocal melody blends hope and affection while radiance pours from sparkling synth.

Guitar calls out to accent the vocal melody and an enfolding synth tide swirls as fragile notes float and tender sax drifts through. Dreamkid’s voice caresses as the guitar dances to add weight and strength while oscillating bass pushes the music forward while the drums rebound.

Our storyteller talks about being alone in the city from “dawn to dark” and wonders if he has “seized up on the edge.” He can see love all around him but feels that “it’s barely chasing me.”He points out that “memories of you breeze in out of my mind” from time to time and they strike him like lightning. He adds “you’re always what I wanted. All I need is you.”

The narrator says he’s been chasing his dreams “on this highway of life” but he didn’t “get the memo.” What was obscured clears up and “the blinds are now wide open.” He adds that he’s never been afraid of risks and “I’m so damn unattended” now. He concludes by saying that “you’ll never make a splash if you don’t jump, so I won’t be burning longer.”

Gossamer synth with a wide glide sweeps through to commence “Ocean.” Drums rebound in a clean pulse and funky slap bass augments the low end groove. Orchestra hits leap with bright energy and panpipes create a hypnotic pattern exuding breathy peace.

Trembling drums press on and orchestra hits jump. Popping synth weaves into the mix to raise the music's energy levels while active drums press on. I find the strong retro energy of the well-crafted drum part especially appealing.

Refulgent, scudding synth gives the track a feeling of non-stop movement while panpipes briefly cry out. Slap bass twangs as a tautly flitting synth line dances in angular motion. Panpipes take up a melody that demands action while colossal drums drive on.

“Joan Wilder” begins as summery synth sails in along with open-sounding percussion. Trembling bells shift above widely pulsing bass as a thumping beat dances in along with stacked up, flashing synth chords. Panpipes float, carrying a melody imbued with playful energy.

The Last Concorde skillfully creates a sensation of poolside lounging as drums and bass frolic. Synth chords add lustre in the background while a breezy melody skips along as the low end pulse moves onward smoothly. Flitting guitar licks add a groovy note and timbales add Latin flair.

The lead synth’s airy feeling suits the melody’s celebratory feeling as it slides along. A delicate synth cloud moves below the guiding drumbeat as it passes by. Crystalline synth begins to grow into the music with a hazily shining feeling before it reaches full strength as distant bass swells.

Funkily entangled guitar pops as the energizing percussion presses on. Trumpet-like notes vibrate into the the unstoppable low end throbs on. The track ends on the sprightly melody with which it began.

Trickling xylophone moves above brushing percussion in a softly tumbling flow to open “Capri.” Chimes shimmer and muscled drums touch the track. An underlying, silken synth slides with feathery fragility as drums tick and xylophone hypnotizes.

Giant, retro drums burst to form a guiding beat while bass slips below as the xylophone reverberates in an intoxicating melodic pattern. After the drums throb alone, the xylophone adds an angular air of mystery to the track. The drums keep pulsating in a sonic wall.

After a drum flourish, electric guitar slides out with a majestic feeling and the xylophone wraps my ears in trance-inducing motion. Now drums fade and cosmic background synth ends the track.

“Back To You” starts as solid drums are joined by steadily clapping percussion and flowing bass as medium notes flare. Emma Ballantine’s ethereal voice is calming but tinged with ache as illuminating synth flares burst. Strong drums add addictive propulsion as gleaming chords entangle.

Emma Ballantine emotes and sunlit notes glimmer as the chorus has a soothing melancholy in it, matching the lyrics while dense bass trembles far below. Sharp edged, twirling synth cuts in as bell-like notes ring out and the drumbeat pulsates.

Flashing synth dances past as the spring, dynamic low end presses on while the vocal melody is softly touching and the energetic bass and drums interlock to take the song to an end.

Some relationships are frustrating but hard to escape. Our narrator notices that the other person says they love her when they’re alone and want her when they are gone. She swears that “I have to stop going back to you.”

The storyteller is being told she’s missed when the song’s subject is out with friends and leaves empty promises to call her even as she waits. She concludes that, in spite of it all, "I keep running back to you! “

Bright brass hits flash along with a crisply clicking drum beat that moves with razor sharp bass to kick off “Dreamers.” A strong groove tinged with varied percussion moves in as reverberant, airy synth carries a fragile melody with a nostalgic quality.

Fluting synth sings a hazy, flickering melodic line with a hint of loss in it. Slap bass makes a compelling entrance as drums bounce and brass stabs as the solid drums pop. The flute exhales in a wandering pattern while bass slices and record scratches scribble.

Big drums drive and the active baseline keeps the music moving. Wind flows and panpipes ripple in silken tranquility while rounded synth flares and record scratches come in.

“Those Days” kicks off as a throbbing drum and bass pattern propels the track with interlocking synths smoothly carrying chords that speak of peace and forward progress. After drums flourish, open-voiced synth spills out with yearning emotion while drums and bass push on below it.

In the distance, chimes twinkle while widely slipping notes slide behind the repeating melodic pattern with its dreamy quality. Now colossal bass surges as synth chords project luminosity into the track.

After a light swirl, the bright synth creates a pleasingly tranquil impression while percussion adds form. Radiant chimes carry an uplifting melodic motif above the low end's weight. Quickly trickling synth skips past as the solid drums and bass guide the track to an end.

A deep bass pool flows out as medium-high, sharp-edged synth drifts in gleaming motion to open “Flashback III.” A sweeping sound is joined by effulgent synth chords before widely glowing chimes carry a melancholy and soothing melody.

Punchy drums burst and bass growls. There’s optimism in the chiming notes as they flicker out above gargantuan drums. Ticking percussion underpins enfolding synth clouds as they well up in a more quiescent segment.

Drums rebound as resonant synth sings a touching melody mingling longing and warmth above swirling synth chords. Chiming notes glimmer as they interweave loss and hope as drums tick quietly while the bass falls silent.

Conclusion

Flashback takes familiar retrowave elements and makes them into a fresh, fun and ear-catching final album. I enjoy the approach taken by The Last Concorde on this album and find it easy to hear over and over again.

LIGHTSPEAR - Motor

Review by Karl Magi

Overall Album Impressions

LIGHTSPEAR’s Motor is a lusciously interlocking synth tapestry that explores all of the facets of cars and what they mean to enthusiasts. LIGHTSPEAR combines emotive melodies, fascinating synth textures and powerful low end propulsion on Motor. The end result is an expressive musical journey that keeps me engaged as I listen.

Melody is something that never fails to draw me into music and LIGHTSPEAR has crafted some truly pleasing melodies on Motor. I especially enjoy how he leavens the rushing intensity of the music with melodic content that is melancholy or full of longing. It creates a balance that I quite enjoy as the album unfolds.

There’s an auditory depth and layered richness on Motor that lends the music a great deal of sonic power. The synth sounds range from delicate to robust while the tones run the gamut from ice cold to solar in warmth. All of these complementary or contrasting elements combine into an ear-grabbing totality on the album.

I want to give special mention to the percussion and bass on the album. They have massive presence and propulsive life that adds to the accelerative and energy-filled nature of the music. I enjoy the way in which the low end interacts with the other elements through the tracks.

My Favourite Tracks Analyzed

“Motor” comes to life as a delicately ringing bell-like sound flows steadily into open space. Tiny synth motes shimmer with fragile, tentative motion in the distance. The narrator talks about his love of cars, night driving and speed in deep, rich tones.

Widely turning arpeggios spin and chimes glissade with sparkling ease. The narrator has an engaging tone as he speaks passionately while arpeggios dance and bright notes twinkle. Now powerful drums pulse onward and a creaking, sharp-edged synth insistently vibrates as tautly spinning notes move.

Shining synth with a string-like quality sings a dynamic, ear-grabbing melody as piano notes form a drifting pattern. Twisting, high synth calls out as arpeggios turn. The low end pushes on while raised strings exude ear-pleasingly radiant energy. Bending, wandering synth calls out in an urgently rushing pattern and bass pulsates heavily before falling silent along with gliding, metallic notes.

Cars rush past on the highway before deeply rippling arpeggios move along with brightly jangling, metallic bells to start “Route.” The arpeggios add rich texture as truly massive drums form a powerfully throbbing beat. Slightly gruff synth chords flare into the music above the elastic drums.

Chimes spill out sparkling light, adding superb lustre and metallic sheen to the music. Below the other elements, bass undulates in waves while the hard-hitting drums keep up their unrelenting motion. Effulgent chimes carry a melody that makes me feel victorious and alive while full notes twinkle and angular bass rebounds as trumpeting chords leap out.

A kick drum throbs and a nasal, gently unwinding synth drifts dreamily while vaulting, gleaming arpeggios flow. Nasal-sounding synth calls out with wistful emotion and illumination flashes from wandering, soft-edged synth as bass oscillates slowly.

“DeLusion” opens as windshield wipers swish rhythmically and a background drone becomes a steady flow. Tightly wound notes shimmy as flat percussion bursts out underneath. A distorted synth carries an enigmatic melody while metallic trickles move through above the punchy drums.

Clean, sharp synth carries a majestic melodic line before becoming haunted and mysterious again. There’s yearning emotion in the melody, adding a touching quality to the track that I find charming.

Rippling synth motes spark in a steady pattern and gigantic drums explode with broad force. Now resonant notes move as glimmering synth repeats a taut pattern and springy sounds tremble. Soft-focus synth carries the ghostly but noble melody before silence falls.

F1 cars howl around a track to open “Formula” before the sound of breath is joined by jazz organ notes with a bell-like resonance. Trickling chimes flicker and brassy notes cry out in the background, unctuous arpeggios spin and razor-edged bass thunders as fat drums explode.

Giant-sounding notes surge before a silky smooth, medium-high synth carries a melody mingling intense energy with pained emotion. Sharply slicing notes rebound in the background. There’s a wonderful, lambent life in the melody as tumbling, bursting synth leaps out.

After a sweeping synth cries out, taut notes flit past and heavy drums pound. There is breath again before the shining synth melody keeps up a sense of dynamism above the huge bass surge and silence falls.

“Track” commences as enormous bass rumbles below distantly floating chimes that wander quietly. Soothing notes arpeggiate and hard-edged bass growls in waves to create an excellent contrast. The bass becomes a powerful oscillation as chords exuding brightness flash out.

A snare drum adds shaping influence to the dark bass pulse and piano-like notes create a feathery pattern with a hopeful quality. The piano melody has a lost and wistful character while the underlying chords provide noble sensations. Now the bass scuds along rapidly with a shadowed feeling and the drums skip easily.

Rough-edged, gleaming notes have a melancholy tinge as they shift and the piano drifts past above rushing bass. The gruff synth that winds through carries a longing melody feeling as the backing chords generate majestic sensations.

Filigreed synth interweaves as big drums thud and radiant illumination spills into the track. Sharp notes cut cleanly as drums collide and golden synth sings a pained melody while drums rebound. There’s a deep ache in the lead synth while the low end powers onward to an end.

A hazily floating synth is tinged with arpeggiating notes flickering through it to start “Rust.” Softly slipping, elevated synth threads drop in before a ticking hi hat is joined by pulsating, dense bass.

A snare drum kicks in to add more shape and the tensely shining synth carries a dynamically expansive melody. Chimes shimmer as arpeggios shiver and medium-high synth vibrates with a brilliant light. A flashing synth pattern lends active energy while the percussion pushes on and bass surges.

The broadly trembling, medium-high lead synth has a pleasingly energetic quality to it. The narrator speaks with nostalgia about a beloved family car and her family’s experiences, sadness about the state of the car but joy for the memories.

Conclusion

Motor carries me away on a intensely interwoven synth journey, full of nuance and auditory detail. This is synth music that roams across a broad landscape of emotion and instrumental complexity and draws me in more deeply with each listen.

LAU - Circumstance (Take Two)

Review by Karl Magi

Overall Album Impressions

LAU’s Circumstance (Take Two) carries listeners on a journey through the emotional complexity of a love challenged by distance and uncertainty. LAU and her musical guests create music that is impassioned, expressive and ear-catching. Lyrics, vocals and synth layers interweave to create music with depth and intense feeling.

Lyrics and vocals combine to superb effect on Circumstance (Take Two). LAU’s songs explore the full range of emotions confronted by people sharing a long-distance relationship in their lyrics. All of the vocal performances by LAU or her guests cut right to the heart of the matter with powerful expression.

I am enthused by the way in which LAU has brought together such a deep talent pool on Circumstance (Take Two). All of her musical guests bring a unique sensibility that lends breadth and power to the songs. I enjoy hearing their interpretations of LAU's songs and how each artist adds a fresh flavour to the music.

Each synth choice adds to the album's sonic richness. The tonal ranges, timbral qualities and musical textures are woven into a luscious whole. Each element enhances the melodic and harmonic beauty in the songs and brings out their emotional core.

My Favourite Tracks Analyzed

“Undecided” begins as flowing air moves smoothly, joined by synth with an orange glow as clapping percussion mingles with throbbing bass. Jumping drums support LAU’s strong and expressive voice as Melissa McNaught’s chorus moves around it while chimes shine.

The vocal melody is hopeful and tentative at the same time as a steady synth pulse skips while chimes sparkle. The chorus rises with strength and heart as luminous, medium-high synth chords call out. Now Melissa McNaught’s voice has a tender tone as bending synth wriggles.

After a robotized voice, Oliver Payn adds his caressing tones as raised synth glistens and the full-sounding synth chords add more brilliance to the music. Melissa McNaught fills her voice with a mixture of need and tentative feeling.

LAU’s voice climbs with the other voices in harmonic richness as the drums and bass form a guiding pulse. The chorus sails up high, emotion pouring out, as the percussion bursts. Melissa McNaught lets her voice arc upward and the track ends on lush synth.

Our narrator is willing to take on the sadness and worries of the song’s subject but “it’s been a while and you’re undecided.” There’s a fear that the song’s subject might fade away. She’s willing to wait for the other person to be with her “even if time isn’t moving fast” since they connect so well. She adds that “I don’t wanna keep loving undecided.

The connection is fresh and new but the storyteller says that “I don’t wanna feel so overexcited If I’m not gonna see you soon.” Now she’s waiting to get a call from the other person who knows that she’s there waiting. I enjoy the lines, “Give me your fears and bury the past. Can’t you see you’re made of glass?”

Our tale’s teller will illuminate the song subject’s grey skies and imagines the two of them as they “chase the clouds and dance in the rain.” However she has to keep wondering about the other person’s commitment, trying to be patient as she reminds them “you know that I choose you, don’t wanna lose you.”

In conclusion, she feels that she is waiting too long, asking the other person “Why is it that you’re so undecided?” All she wants is to be with the song’s subject, not to be overexcited because “I don’t wanna keep wondering if you love me, tell me what you feel right now.”

Broad-sounding bells carry a yearning melody out over easily skipping drums and flowing bass tinged with digital sparkles to open “Give Her Your Love.” LAU’s voice is lightly touching and dreamy, carrying the energizing and positive melody as tambourine tickles the music.

A guitar adds a touch of gruffness as the bells dance and undulating bass ripples. Emma Ballantine’s light and soothing voice carries the uplifting vocal melody out over strong low end muscle. There’s motivation and joy in the lyrics as the guitar leaps with wonderful, unstoppable energy.

Now chimes trickle as the song flows into a swirling, misty effulgence and the percussion drops out. The two singers entwine their voices as metallic, gleaming arpeggios spin.

The guitar jumps into a solo full of aspiration and reaching energy as it flies on musical wings. The main synth melody carries radiance and happiness within it as the vocals climb higher with irrepressible expression and the song ends.

Sometimes a person comes along who fits us perfectly and brings us to life. In this song, the narrator is encouraging the song’s subject to accept that person’s love. When the song’s subject’s feeling discouraged, the narrator reminds them to “look into her eyes and realign” because they can’t fight life’s tide. Instead she tells them to "find the fire, get ignited.”

To have found a person who makes them “feel brand new”, our storyteller reminds the song’s subject that they must have been doing something right. The song bursts with encouragement for the other person to “give her your love.” Nothing will make the song’s subject more joyful because of the time they took to find their love.

Although we all run the risk of getting hurt, the narrator encourages the other person to have an open heart. In the midst of being “all alone, nobody there at home” the song’s subject can still a sense of fresh love “just like you’re seventeen.”

As the song winds down, the teller of the tale points out that when they get together “nothing really matters.” The song’s subject was alone and lost until the other person came along and “now she has become your world.”

“Broken Hearts” starts out as flashing luminosity leaps from wide-sounding chimes as dense bass supports the encouraging chords. Fat drums rebound as LAU’s engaging voice echoes with intense feeling as the drums steadily rebound and the synth chords yearn upward.

Kidburn’s voice is full of feeling and gently winds around the listener’s ears, carrying mingled ache and supportive expression with skill. The chiming notes have a solar flicker in them as smooth retro drums bounce.

Shining, glossy synth chords sail out as Kidburn and LAU share the vocal duties, the guitar unfurling as it sobs and then arcs skyward above the solid drumbeat. The two singers pour out aspiration as the lyrics urge a move towards more positive thinking.

Sometimes in life, it is all a matter of getting the right perspective. The teller of this tale reminds the other person that only they can know what’s really going on inside their heads. The song’s subject wants to let go of everything, but the narrator asks, “Are you really fine?” They add that life feels “contrived” for the other person who needs to take some time.

Our narrator points out that the song's subject feels like they are falling each time they shut their eyes to sleep. The teller of the tale adds, “You wonder now how many broken hearts you can recall.” The other person tried to take a quick way out but survived against the odds.

Our storyteller goes on to remind the song subject that if they don't try, they'll never know. They go on to say "you wanna dive in, you wanna try to fall back in love” and they encourage the other person by pointing out that they’ll find someone with any luck. The narrator concludes, “hold your head up, you’re gonna be fine somehow, try to see the world with different eyes.”

An illuminating synth cloud glows in the background while gargantuan bass undulates and big retro drums burst to commence “What To Do.” A synth rises in radiant trembling motion as LAU’s ear-pleasing, enfolding voice also rises, carrying a melody that is wistful and hopeful.

Natalie Gray adds her own deeply emotive vocals as the massive low end throbs and synth flares out. Vibrating synth lines pour out intense shine to lift the mood of the song. Natalie Gray’s smooth voice glides with silky expression and soulful feeling as lambent arpeggios twirl.

After a guitar flourish, Natalie Gray’s voice erupts with emotive power and the drums and bass drive hard. Rounded, warming synth chords swell up and LAU’s voice captures all the emotion in the lyrics. Drums fly in again and Natalie Gray and LAU bring their voices together in deep expression above the brilliant synth light as the song ends.

Sometimes emotional connections begin in ways that one can’t predict and adjusting to them is tough. Our storyteller has found a connection online and realizes that “this remote romancing is hard to maintain.” In spite of that, she can’t stop thinking about te other person.

The narrator asks the other person to tell her what to do with the love she feels and with her heart because at this point “I’ve got nowhere else to hide, I’ve got nowhere else to run.” She finds herself falling to pieces without the other person beside her.

Her mental state is fragile during the “complicated madness” of the relationship. She feels stifled by her silence and finds it hard to live with.

Ultimately the storyteller wishes they could pretend they were already together in person and “it’s like real life and we feel like we touch the sky and you’re mine.”

“Circumstance” begins as fragile notes shimmer out in a lightly touching arpeggiation. Deeply throbbing bass and tapping drums move below LAU’s broad-ranging voice as it carries an expectant melody above surging drums and bass.

Need and affection fill LAU’s voice as the scudding drums keep up their guiding beat. I Am Boleyn’s singing is rich and full of feeling as it effectively carries all the yearning and possibility in the lyrics. The giant low end pushes on while glistening synth twirls out.

LAU and I Am Boleyn interlock their voices and resonant chimes drift. The guitar soars up with intense emotion, flying high as the drums and bass press onward while the synths glow and we end on bells with ear-touching warmth.

The uncertainty of a remote relationship along with the anticipation of what is to come mingle for the narrator of this song. The “distant bond” they have is turning her world on end and “your love has got me tied up.” Now her heart is racing and she feels as if she has been "waiting for this moment all my life.” She hopes that the other person will meet her at the airport when she arrives.

While the unusual nature of their relationship is undeniable, they have to try to keep the connection going. The narrator asks, “Oh why, has life kept us so far?” She’s nervous about things but she still wants to take a chance on it. In her dreams, she’s felt the other person’s “fingers on my skin” and that thought has remained with her. She holds on to it with her heart racing as she has “been waiting for this moment all my life.”

In the end they are both about to enter “a new world undiscovered” and what will happen is indefinable so they both have to reach acceptance of whatever occurs.

Slowly and with melancholy, trembling synth chords move with delicate caresses as tender chimes sparkle to commence “If You Could Know.” LAU and Matteo Bertini mingle their first rate voices as they carry needy expression.

Steady drums pound and gleaming arpeggios twirl in time to the low end’s throb. LAU’s strong voice leaps with as Matteo Bertini’s deep resonance balances it as diamond chimes glide.

Matteo Bertini’s gruff voice erupts to support LAU above skipping synth oscillation and pulsing drums. The two singers trade parts as a wildly twirling synth solo glows and tumbles above the heavy drumbeat before the song draws to a close.

Connections that form, even mediated through the Internet, can be powerful and deep. The storyteller was captivated by the other person’s smile when they first connected “on a rainy April day” but now the song's subject is indecisive. Even so, she has agreed to wait as she anticipates how ““our hearts would melt and beat like one.”

All the narrator needs now is the other person’s “tender love” so that people would realize that they weren’t crazy. She has found her place “in the middle of nowhere” with the other person.

Her frustration is clear because the song’s subject is unwilling to change, making her wonder if its the right time or “is it better to wait and find another light?” She yearns to be near to the other person but she is so distant now.

Our storyteller knows that people are questioning if the other person is right for her but they “live in my mind just like a new song.” The doubters add that it is hard to make long distance relationships work but she’s used to it now. She concludes, “Give me all your loving tonight, baby don’t say no ‘cause I don’t wanna lose you now.”

“The Fire” starts as funky electric bass moves along with bright synth and a solidly throbbing drumbeat kicks hard along with the bass groove. LAU lets loose with passionate, heartfelt energy in her voice above the locked in low end.

Lessus’ gutsy and expressive voice carries the energetic melody as a nasal-sounding synth carries a jazz-inflected, whirling melody. LAU cries out as the swirling, dancing guitar deepens the funky flow.

The chorus rings out with arcing energy above the pumping low end as some disco strings jump in. Flashing lead synth sings with lively motion and horns flare with brassy radiance before the song ends.

After heartbreak, starting in a new relationship can be tough, but the song’s subject still wants to try with the narrator. They say that they can’t recall how it feels to be in love with someone. They're afraid to start the relationship and bring the other person down. He adds, “You never put your love on the line."

The storyteller explores their feelings of desire that are building up, wishing the other person could “just put out the fire.” Their feelings are undeniable and they shouldn’t fight them. They muse on why loving and finding someone to share our lives with is so hard. Our storyteller concludes by stating that “I think I can’t live without your love.”

Waves wash as serene synth arpeggios twirl to open “Different.” LAU’s aching voice is interwoven and harmonized with the other vocals as softly touching, delicate synth traces limns their engaging sound.

LAU’s enfolding and calming voice carries an aching melody above the undulating arpeggios. Quick synth shimmers flicker and punchy drums kick in while arpeggios spin out. LAU’s powerfully emotive voice flows and Heartracer’s voice is rich and pained as it carries the needy melody.

Synth flashes with radiant light above the strong low end while the lush arpeggios turn. A sax calls out, reedy energy deepening the song’s melancholy. Heartracer’s voice captures all the yearning in the lyrics as they move through the song.

Even when a relationship is in difficulty, a deep desire for connection can still exist. The narrator felt so alone without the song’s subject in her life, even though they are different people. She says “I can’t argue with fate” in that regard. She wishes that the other person wanted her because “I can ease your pain.”

Our narrator realizes that their relationship’s “a long shot” but still wants to give it a try. She understands that the song’s subject might find the idea crazy but says “I know that I want you and I want you to stay.” The other person’s presence grounds her and completes her.

If the song’s subject is struggling, she will try to help them heal and get stronger. She adds that “I’m almost someone else” when she is with the other person. She knows that she’s willing to try with the other person. They are now far apart and the storyteller can’t forgive herself for hurting the song’s subject.

In spite of that, she feels it may have been for the best, adding that she might be losing her mind but “I know that I want you so I’m coming back.”

“Instant Sunshine” starts as clapping percussion moves from muffled quiet into active disco motion. LAU’s voice bursts with her signature power as bass undulates underneath. Deep, funky synth and sunny chimes flash as Alessandra Boldrini’s passionate voice joins LAU’s to add heartfelt energy.

The disco vibes are massive and propulsive while the percussion drives. Metallic chimes flicker and Alessandra Boldrini’s voice is wonderfully full of intensity and affection. The motivating chorus lifts the song’s energy levels sky high. There’s groovy joy in the thumping disco beat that launches the music forward with funky and fun dynamism.

Alessandra Boldrini’s soulful delivery matches LAU’s as rapid synth cascades. Now Alessandra Boldrini adds a rap segment and swirling synth moves past as the chorus bursts out. The guitar unwinds in a dynamically tumbling cascade and the music ends.

Sometimes desire and yearning build until they are hard to contain in a long distance relationship. The storyteller asks to be told a “hopeful lie” because she doesn’t want to be innocent. Her desire is strong and she can feel the other person’s presence. She says that “distance is always known to deepen the surprise” of meeting the other person and she promises to get to the other person “like the speed of light.”

Our narrator says that the other person brings “instant sunshine” to her life. All she can do is fantasize because words won’t suffice. She hopes the song’s subject will love her for one more night. The narrator wishes to fly to the other person because “I just can’t wait so long to have you in my arms.”

She has waited months for them to come together as she’d rather not be by herself. She has no intention of letting the other person go now. She concludes, “I’ll admit you’re on my mind but our love’s still undefined and I just keep counting time like 1, 2, 3, hey.”

Gently gruff synth carries a melancholy melody to open “True Colours.” LAU’s vocals are caressing and soothing as flaring chimes gleam. Powerful bass throbs along with gigantic, rebounding drums. Radiant arpeggios twirl as LAU’s voice carries the warming vocal melody, rich with encouragement and gentleness.

Glimmering arpeggios tremble and the tremulously emotive melody calls out. Minute Taker’s tender voice carries the melody as it spreads deep love and appreciation. Colossal drums rebound and effulgent arpeggios continue to spin. The two singers create heartwarming harmonies as their voices intermingle and rise together.

The song conveys a positive message as arpeggios add more luminosity. I enjoy the way the two vocalists manage to create a real sense of connection backed by musical depth. Chimes flicker along with Minute Taker’s voice as it drifts out. LAU’s voice joins again as the guitar glides out in a solo that has soul and depth before silence falls.

In the face of life’s challenges, sometimes one has to show their true inner strength. Our narrator tells the song’s subject not to lose heart in a complicated world, even when “the darkness inside you makes you feel so small.”

The storyteller can see the song’s subject’s “true colors” as they shine through and reminds the other person to let them show. They point out that those colors are “beautiful like a rainbow” and wants the other person to show their smile.

Now the narrator asks the other person not to be sad because they haven’t heard their laugh in a long time. They remind the song’s subject that “if this world makes you crazy and you've taken all you can bear, you call me up” as they’ll be around and see the other person’s true colors shining.

Conclusion

Circumstance (Take Two) starts with the strong basis of the original album and takes it to new heights thanks to the musical support of the #synthfam. The amount of talent, added to her own abilities, makes a powerful impression on me here.

Matt Goodluck - Inner Cosmos

Review by Karl Magi

Overall Album Impression

Matt Goodluck’s Inner Cosmos takes listeners on a journey through cinematic soundscapes while exploring a lusciously varied synth palette with nods to composers like Vangelis and Edgar Froese (of Tangerine Dream.) The result is an album that is complex, layered and ear catching.

Inner Cosmos is full of intense imagery and atmosphere, skillfully created by Matt Goodluck. There’s a sense of occasion in each track, layering together well-constructed pieces into a deeply engaging whole. I find myself traveling across the stars and through cyberpunk dystopias as the music unfurls. There’s nuance and depth in abundance here.

Matt Goodluck’s talent for writing synth-based music is clear in his ability to layer and combine a plethora of synth sounds to paint the mental imagery that fills his compositions. I enjoy how each individual tonal colour, timbre and texture wove together to enhance the emotional qualities and images on each track.

I also enjoy the way in which Matt Goodluck was able to pay homage to the synthesizer composers, who have influenced him, well, while still retaining his own unique vision and sound. It's always heartening when a composer is able to respect those who came before them while forging a new path.

My Favourite Tracks Analyzed

“Arrival” comes into being as edgy, threatening synth sweeps in a slicing line while wobbling, elevated notes ripple. Dominating bass oscillates with angular weight to deepen the sense of lurking danger.

Flashing broad notes glide out above the giant bass walls and hollow sound like a launching craft fades into silence. The impression of alien threat is powerfully created, starting off the album well.

Entangling synth tumbles with an intense gleam above rumbling bass depths to open “Dreaming.” Radiant, metallic synth cries with piercing light above the intertwining synth as it pours out energy.

The bass becomes a colossal throbbing heartbeat below medium-high, flaring synth. I am drawn to the way in which the lead synth creates a melodic pattern shot through with hope.

Wind sweeps as the bass briefly fades out before returning with trickling chimes that glint with sunlight above an active bass. Ethereal synth briefly adds a delicate quality as the chimes ring out.

Sharply piercing synth cuts in as the airy, fragile synth breathes out meditative gentleness. Bass ripples and adds shadow while scintillating notes flow into silence.

“Outer Limits” opens as a hang drum rings out into a shifting sonic drift along with rounded sounds. Elevated synth shines while gargantuan bass swells with a rough edged buzz that has a dangerous quality to it.

Gleaming synth glides with brittle, sharp-edged light above the massive darkness below it in a well-crafted contrast. Reverberating metallic notes move out into vastness as silence falls.

Airy bubbling is touched by fluttering static as huge bass towers up with great weight to commence “Interstellar.” Soft-edged, fragile synth slides past as breezy notes sweep. Trickling notes move past and wide, washing synth arpeggiates as one long, hazy sound glissades below.

Oscillating synth shifts while rippling notes flit. The background layering creates an unctuous, calming canvas that I find wonderfully tranquil. Shiny notes rush quickly rush while tautly trembling synth is joined by truly colossal bass. High, twisting sounds are joined by tender, aching synth with an orchestral quality.

Bright notes leap and bubbling sounds keep welling up. Galactic drifting permeates the music as darkly angular notes pop in while shadow fills the low end. Massive power throbs and delicate notes exhale into silence.

“Conspiracy” starts off as rumbling bass joins splashing synth that wanders as gossamer notes breathe out. Shining synth illuminates the other musical elements with clear light.

Hollow, metallic notes roam and radiant accents flicker while starry, elevated notes rise to ear pleasing effect. A voice over talks about CIA experiments as shimmering synth flows.

Splashing, open voiced notes trickle and airy exhalations delicately glide as sharply piercing light flows in. Steadily ticking notes move while a retro radio voice speaks.

Fragile synth washes through as flickering notes slice and fade. Hollow synth roams freely and trailing vocal sounds shift. Choral synth creates a meditative sound while far off notes rise and the entrancing pattern falls silent.

Twanging guitar breaks through the threatening, gigantic bass that flows in broad motion to begin “Night Of Anubis.” Nervously tumbling arpeggios whirl and tight, worried notes slip past.

High, seething sound moves and echoing, elevated synth drifts in wandering lines. A voice over gives the audience advice about eradicating ghouls by killing the brain.

Rushing arpeggios add to the tension and ticking sounds increased the urgency. The music skilfully generates a terrified sense of anticipation. A steady, high sound screams and buzzing darkness surges while a much gentler, more tragic synth calls out before the track fades into silence.

“Into The Blue” comes to life as a surging cacophony of voices mingles together into one chanting line. Piano-like synth roams in mesmerizing motion before gently caressing, lambent synth carries a calming melody above the wandering, undulating piano.

Razor-edged sounds slice while a reverent feeling flows in the airy background synth. The main melody has a soft touch despite the gleaming light pouring from it.

The slipping background pulses steadily and the piano adds shape while wind floats past. Worshipful synth moves with a choral sound that effectively deepens the music's ease.

Glistening synth rings out in a peaceful melody and rushing sounds intertwine in the distance. A bubbling pattern shapes the music and ocean sounds flow into quiet.

Luminous synth moves slowly, vibrating with hazy motion to open “Atlantis.” Vast bass begins shaking below with dense strength as glimmering synth echoes out with a tremulous intensity.

Rich bass undulates with muscled depths below delicately gliding notes carry a melodic ache that travels through the track. Digital notes trickle as aquatic sound ripples past, lifting me on a turquoise current that puts me in a easy going mood. A vocal sample speaks of lost Atlantis above smoothly rounded bass as glassy synth shifts.

The vocal sample tells of the awful destruction of the city as open synth echoes with a distant, lost feeling. Aquatic notes also move past while sharp-edged strings cut in. The vocal sample speaks of Atlantis rising again.

“Neon” starts as roughly growling bass fills the track as a flat sounding synth arpeggiates. Wind blows and dazzling synth chords add lustre as they echo into openness.

Xylophone adds a shiny, darting accent that rises and fades above the twirling arpeggios. Peaceful synth calls out, creating engaging tranquility as buzzing sounds move. Tentatively lambent synth is touched with glowing chimes while shadowy synth shimmies and bass wells up.

There’s a deeply soothing feeling in the glistening synth, relieving stress as chimes add radiance. A technological sounding synth pulses in the background. Keen-edged synth adds more intensity and silence falls with the sound of traffic.

Rain falls softly as delicate synth swirls and drifts in roaming lines to begin “Deckard’s Requiem.” A steady gleam fills the background with caressing radiance that permeates the track.

Digital sparkles flit past as lush bass rises up elevated synth slowly undulates. There is deep calm in the rounded, xylophone notes that slowly flow out, effectively imbuing the music with melancholy peace. A rich bass current slips past as trickling notes ripple.

Ethereal synth trails along with an aching emotional tone as distantly spinning notes sail out into the misty rain, falling onto iridescent pools in a Blade Runner dream. There’s meditative qualities along with a mournful tone.

“Voyager” comes into being as dense, massive bass rumbles with a shivering crackle as cosmically bending synth shifts with tentative ease. Soft-edged synth brushes while reverberating piano carries tender notes given a touch of strangeness by squelching sonic flows.

Looming bass creates an impression of the unfathomable darkness in outer space. There is a pleasing contrast between terrifying power and untethered wandering while radio transmissions crackle out.

Tapping notes, along with twisting synth trickles and bells, ring out as percussion shimmies. Digital sounds are touched by piano notes slipping past while intimidating bass shadows rise. High chimes flicker while a skittering synth is accented with metallic tapping before the track ends.

Conclusion

Inner Cosmos is an expansive and exciting journey through Matt Goodluck’s fertile imagination. I enjoy coming along with him as he deploys his synths to create “head films” that are full of interest and passion.