TLF - The Lost Future
Review by Karl Magi
Overall Album Impressions
TLF’s The Lost Future combines his intense vocal performances with songwriting that delves deeply into emotional reflection, struggle, triumph and life's transience. The way in which he mingles well-composed instrumental tracks with powerful songs draws me in, along with the nostalgic sounds that fill the music. In addition, his guest performers add another layer of depth and feeling to the album with their contributions.
I am compelled by the way in which TLF forges together vocal performance and songwriting. Whether it's his own impassioned singing or the expressive performances of his guests, the vocals capture the dramatic and moving emotional explorations in his lyrics. The way in which he reflects on purpose, meaning and existence is powerfully affecting for me. I also enjoy the way in which his songs explore transience, interspersed with triumphant moments.
TLF's ability to write strong melodies is another powerful component that gives The Lost Future depth and power. He can write melodies that infuse his music with emotional ache or fill it with warmth and triumph. No matter which direction he takes, his melodies pierce right to the emotional core of the music. I also enjoy the way in which they support his songwriting and deepen the feelings he creates. I'm also enamored of the contrasting emotions he explores in his melodic writing.
Along with his songwriting and vocal abilities, TLF crafts layered synths nto ear-grabbing compositions on The Lost Future. The synth sounds range from gruff aggression to ethereal smoothness as they shape the textures and emotional tone of the music. I enjoy the way in which he uses 8-bit elements to evoke classic video game music and contribute a gritty, pulsating energy to the music. He also has a strong sense of rhythm that drives the music forward.
I also want to add my appreciation for his guest singers—Jaki Nelson and Elin—who each contribute their distinctive and powerful vocal performances to the album. They add more richness and emotional depth to the music and give it even more meaning for me.
My Favourite Tracks Analyzed
“Eclipse” opens with the sound of a storm raging and an echoing, trumpeting note ringing over threatening bass. The main synth melody has a gentle warmth to it, cut by the massively throbbing drums and dense bass. The lead synth glimmers with delicate, slightly rough-edged light and colossal bass throbs heavily as the guitar slices through.
A towering synth carries a dramatic, enigmatic melody above the heavy weight below it. A gleaming synth flashes and the singer's warmly deep vocals cry out with expression as the gigantic drums and bass drive on. Orchestral synths carry the melody with deep strength, intertwining with the singer's expression-filled vocals. The main melody continues, the lead synth full of a dark majesty. The track ends on delicately dancing piano and trickling water with a reverent choir in the distance.
The narrator asks, "Would you give it up for loving? Would you melt away in hate?" She questions whether this is the moment the song's subject has been dreaming about or just another day. She adds that when the other person feels as if they are fading, "when you know that you are unseen," and when they realize they’re slowly dying, they are "the eclipse that I have been."
A synth surges with slicing energy above explosive drums to open “Lucy.” TLF’s unique voice has a light touch with strong expression, carrying an active melody above the rebounding low end.
Punchy energy fills the percussion, as bursting synth flashes with light, accompanying the galvanizing vocals. A towering synth pours out radiance, carrying the main melody as TLF’s airy voice expresses the lyrics’ complex emotion. The drums drive onwards as a scintillating synth doubles the leaping vocals.
I enjoy the way in which the lyrics are interpreted by TLF here. Now, the song glides into a smoothly washing segment punctuated by gruff synth and sparkling higher notes. The song comes to an end on rough-edged, lambent synth and digital notes fading to quiet.
Our narrator says that everything is a circus and wonders why everyone's dressed in black. He adds that life's sole purpose is the fact that we're never coming back. He talks about a “serenade, so intricate” when we're watching this fake parade. We are “all alone in a soul between too much and no control.”
The storyteller tells the song’s subject, “Lucy, we're all going to die and until then we are wasting our lives” but he reminds her that “we still have tonight.” She's been crying intensely and “longing for that song to sing.” Now choirs shout, “Let the bells of leaving ring!” and tell her to run away.
Our narrator says that “succumbing hearts will never change.” One is “all alone in a soul,” and when life devours you, it does so slowly. He adds that the fireworks start as the coffin is lowered, and when it’s lowered, “your world falls apart.”
A rapidly rushing beat slowly grows in strength alongside a gently flowing melody and the lead singer's vocals to open “Sad/Is/Fight.” TLF’s' voice is full of feeling, carrying the interweaving melody as it actively leaps through the music while the drums and bass pound hard.
The melody’s minor key tinge adds a twist as the drums rush on and the glimmering synth in the distance flows past. The main melody has a hollow, choral quality, and the beats trip as the bass throbs deeply. TLF’s voice carries the song forward, weaving with a shadowy twist as the throbbing low end twists around.
Propulsive drums and bass support the leaping chorus as the open-voiced, melancholy-tinged synth unwinds through the music with a delicate feeling. The track dances on as an ethereal synth glides out, and the vocals slide between the aching melody while the low end pulses. A noble sense of loss fills the notes of the synth in a way that feels deeply touching. The song ends with the main melody crying out and fading away.
The storyteller says that when the song's subject hears him scream for more and for silence, "exits are only painted doors," and he’s looking to do some violence. He adds, "There is no other aim in sight, I'm just a rabbit in the headlight," and as everything sinks down, he feels as if he’s been reborn.
The narrator admits he can never find satisfaction or "feed that appetite." He says that it’s sad and a fight but reiterates that he can’t be satisfied. When the song's subject hears him calling underwater, they know they’re holding a knife behind their back "to cut the candle only shorter."
Our storyteller concludes that when his "true aims get out of sight" he’s just a vampire searching for action. Despite everything continuing to decline, he feels reborn in those circumstances nonetheless.
“Reggie's Anthem” commences with massive, dangerous-sounding bass and smoothly rushing drums. An 8-bit melody with dramatic, dark triumph pouring out of it dances through the track, with driving drums creating an exciting feeling. The melody is joyful and energizing, exploding with liveliness and a sense of adventure.
A surging, shadowy synth rises behind it to create an even greater sense of victory. I enjoy the classic VGM quality of the melody with its instantly engaging nature. A broken drum and bass beat moves beneath the surging, gleaming synth, infusing the music with strength and nobility.
The melody fills me with celebratory wonder, lifting me up with an encouraging sense of battling on. The main melody takes on a warmer, major key feeling for a moment, and then the organ-like synth swells behind the melodic line as the drums and bass explode in a punchy flow, rushing the track to a rapid conclusion.
Gigantic, pulsing drums and slowly echoing synth notes start “Things Will Never Be The Same Again.” Brightly glittering synth rings out above the hard-hitting melody as the chimes flicker and TLF's voice is muffled as he chants. The drums and bass are muscular as the vocals are taken up by Jaki Nelson, deeply moving and grabbing, as the synth rises in luminous chords that spill out through the track while the drums and bass pulsate.
The massive low end rumbles as Jaki Nelson’s vocals ache with feeling and the intensely brilliant synth flares out. The drums flourish, and TLF’s vocals chant, doubled by the flickering chimes, in an enigmatic and twisting melody. The steady synth pulse adds an almost vocal feeling.
Jaki Nelson's vocals capture the heartfelt lyrics as towering synth chords shimmer with powerful encouragement in contrast to the pained melody. A trumpet rings out with dynamic energy, leaping above the insistent low end until the song concludes with a fanfare.
The narrator says he’s got problems sticking right on his coffee mug and asks the song's subject to remind him what their problem is again. He adds that they know they had to leave because they heard a "blurry shot" but are kept in place by gravity. He reflects that "the stars look bright from where we are in outer space" and through the night.
Our storyteller points out that things won’t ever be the same again, adding that it can happen to the best of us. He continues, saying that when "a stranger is looking like a friend," things won’t be the same again. He observes that we’re drifting through space and "stumbling through our times" as we collect everything, both good and bad.
“Like aliens on the run, to hide from city lights,” the narrator says he is still "longing for all we had." He adds that the other person's eyes look tired because "they’ve seen it all." He concludes that he knows they’re out there in the night somewhere.
"Pixelhero on the Way" kicks off with radiant, gruff-edged synth bursts that jubilantly accompany clapping percussion, propelling the exciting melody forward. Elevated synths wind through above the rapidly pulsating low end, creating a sense of intense motion. The drums enter, punching forward as sparkling notes skip through the music, while the bass drives with a hard-edged pulse.
Raised sounds flow and the main melody cries out on a triumphant-sounding synth, victorious and tinged with more pained feelings as it leaps out. The flaring synth, with its gruff edges, adds luminosity as the colossal bass rumbles and oscillates.
A smooth synth carries a melody that hints at emotive ache and darkness. Metallic sounds add a jangling quality, while the drums and bass rush below a noble melody, uplifting me. In the distance, the drums shape the music as the track ends on the main melody, singing out with encouragement and joy.
A nervous warning sound rings out above seething bass to open "Running Down to Metahell" . The bass rushes along with a sharp chip of sound flashing out, while 8-bit tones add a gritty element. These pulsating, dancing tones slip through the music in a minor-key line. I enjoy the dominant power of the low end mingling with flickering 8-bit sounds as the drums rush into a pounding charge.
A brief pause leads into the main melody, which calls out on a medium-high, glimmering synth. The melody is tinged with warmth, moving actively. Choral sounds echo distantly as the low end pounds heavily. Gruff synths dance with twirling motion, while 8-bit notes ring out with clear sharpness and the background swirls smoothly.
Gigantic drums batter again as ominous bass churns below. The drums rush forward and the main melody cries out with hopeful emotion, lifting my heart and filling me with joy. Drums and bass pulse on as scintillating sounds light up the music. A secondary melody brings a more hurting feeling before the track concludes with shiny notes trickling through the distance.
"Better Days" starts with a pipe organ, adding a certain darkness, as TLF’s smooth, expressive voice slowly echoes with a tragic melody. The bass flows underneath as the pipe organ brings a dramatic quality. A heavy kick drum begins to heave, and trickling notes wash through the music.
TLF’s deeply felt vocals build and colossal drums collide as sweeping, string-like synths sing lustrously. The main melody climbs with touching gentleness as TLF captures the essence of the lyrics. Chimes flit with delicate lightness, complementing TLF’s intense emotional delivery. Flashing notes glow within the music, driving home the song’s spirit.
String-like synths dance with tender ease while the gigantic drums pulsate and luscious synths float through. Drums and bass continue pounding as a smooth, glassy synth is joined by soaring, wordless vocals. The track ends on a strummed guitar and resonant pipe organ.
The storyteller reveals that the song’s subject didn’t find their way or take the chance given to them. He says, “You find your dreams in blankness” and emphasizes life’s relentless nature with them. He describes the subject counting stars and waiting for one to fall, praying for a guiding vision and for their “tragic mission to come.”
The narrator questions the subject: ‘What do you believe in? What’s keeping you sane?” He wonders what makes them wait “so patiently for better days” and even consider that better days might come. He declares, “It’s high time for being high, with your eyes raised to the sky,” asking, “Is there any life on Mars? Oh, I need to know!”
The storyteller empathizes, admitting he understands the difficulty of standing oneself. He offers solace, concluding, “I can take you anywhere, any way from here, away from here.”
Conclusion
The Lost Future is full of depth and creativity, blending intense vocal performances with rich, emotionally resonant songwriting. Its intricate melodies, pulsating rhythms and thought-provoking lyrics explores the fragility of existence and the enduring human spirit.
5 Years Of My Favourite #Synthfam Artists - Part Two
by Karl Magi
Dimi Kaye
Dimi Kaye has always captured me with his skillful guitar playing and melodic songwriting. He crafts a sonic universe defined by energy, motion and vivid storytelling, blending melody and atmosphere to create a thrilling auditory experience. Dimi Kaye’s music embodies the exhilaration of movement.
The way in which Dimi Kaye uses synths adds texture and emotion, ranging from gleaming, nasal tones to broad, trumpeting patterns that pulsate dynamically. These shimmering layers are complemented by his electric guitar mastery. He can make his guitar growl, shred or evoke deep emotional resonance. Whether delivering a smokin’ solo or a tender melody, hs guitar becomes a powerful force in his compositions.
A solid rhythmic foundation underpins Dimi Kaye’s tracks, where smooth basslines oscillate beneath steady drums, creating a seamless interplay between groove and energy. This rhythmic precision enhances the uplifting, victorious quality of his melodies, often soaring with positive energy and a sense of triumph.
Another reason I enjoy Dimi Kaye's music is the way he tells cohesive stories, weaving warm, detailed elements into dynamic and evocative scenes. From open roads to sparkling seas, his compositions take me on an auditory journey, combining melody, power and emotion into a vibrant and unforgettable musical experience.
Mayah Camara
The first time I heard Mayah Camara’s amazing voice, I was hooked. her voice brims over with soulful energy in an irresistible way. emotional storytelling, relationship and personal growth take centre stage in her songs, blending powerful imagery with intricate musical textures to create deeply resonant experiences.
I’m drawn to the deep nostalgia and longing in Mayah Camara’s songwriting as she reflects on better times and memories of lost connections. She expresses a yearning for idealized moments, balancing melancholy with an undercurrent of hope. She also explores the complexities of unrequited love, separation and misunderstandings while highlighting the resilience required to move forward.
I am deeply appreciative of Mayah Camara’s entrancing and powerful vocal performances that burst with deep feelings and emotional complexity. She can carry me to the stars or make me ache with sadness through her captivating voice and expression.
The way in which Mayah Camara effectively creates cinematic imagery enhances her storytelling. Images are metaphorically etched in the clouds and neon-drenched visions paint vibrant emotional and situational landscapes.
The backing music for Mayah Camara’s songs often emphasizes lush synth textures and dynamic melodies. Luminous and glittering synths create a balance between delicacy and robustness, while uplifting yet aching melodies express both hope and melancholy.
Damokles
Damokles remains one of my enduring favourites in the synth scene. I enjoy the way in which he blends vintage vibes with contemporary flair. his style is rooted in retro sounds and infused with funk, jazz, rock ‘n’ roll and disco influences, But ends up sounding completely individual and fresh.
I've always been drawn to Damokles’ high production values, as he creates soundscapes full of intriguing synth tones and intricate textures. Layered arrangements and blistering synth and keytar solos showcase instrumental mastery and technical flair, elevating each track into an engaging listening experience.
Another reason I so enjoy Damokles’ work is his distinctive, deep-toned voice. He sounds like nobody else in the scene and creates compelling melodies that are both catchy and emotionally expressive. That strong sense of melody is pervasive, as he blends heartfelt expression with infectious playfulness.
Damokles’ blend of vintage-inspired sounds and modern production captures his deep sense of individuality, offering an exploration of intriguing sonic possibilities. Whether through its funky grooves, jazz-infused rhythms or spirited synth journeys, his music expresses his unique personality.
With its bright energy, personal expression and genre-spanning appeal, Damokles’ music carries me on a bold and entertaining journey through eclectic, well-produced and innovative sounds.
Lau Fares
Lau Fares captured me from the get go with her vocals that mix emotional depth and dynamic energy. She weaves love, loss and catharsis into a luminous sonic tapestry of sound in her songs. The way in which she combines expressive vocals, radiant synths and powerful instrumentation captures both the ache of heartbreak and the hope of renewal.
Another strong aspect of Lau Fares’ music is the way in which her vocal performances bring together raw intensity and heartfelt emotion, mingling love and loss with passion and need. Her voice is warm, enfolding and unmistakably emotive as it soars and caresses. her performances embody the struggles and triumphs of human connection.
I've always appreciated the way in which Lau Fares fearlessly explores complex relationships In her songs. Her themes range from toxic ties to the challenges of love at a distance. Yearning melodies and throbbing basslines capture the push-and-pull of desire while dynamic synth solos and intricate guitar often amplify the emotional arcs.
There is something elemental in the way that Lau Fares captivates me. Despite the overt retrowave feeling in her tracks, her fusion of sound and emotion resonates deeply, producing a satisfying and transformative musical experience.
Elevate The Sky
My first experience With Elevate the Sky’s music exerted a powerful pull because of his expressive passion and his deeply heartfelt vocals that convey both strength and vulnerability.
Elevate the Sky crafts detailed synthscapes, blending retro aesthetics with modern flair to transport listeners on an emotional journey. From gentle caresses to soaring intensity, his voice becomes a vessel of yearning and triumph, evoking hope and resilience.
I am also a fan of the way in which Elevate the Sky uses rich, retro-inspired instrumentation— including pounding '80s drums, glowing synths and dynamic guitar solos— to immerse listeners in an engaging auditory experience. All of the elements add depth and diversity, creating an intriguing, broad sonic palette.
Elevate the Sky’s songwriting often embodies feelings of hope and triumph as it uplifts, energizes and inspires. His songs exude positivity, resilience and the triumph of light over darkness, creating an exhilarating sense of adventure. I also enjoy the way in which his songs unfold as journeys of emotional exploration.
The fact that Elevate the Sky also collaborates with a wide variety of artists further enhances his music, as they all add harmony and warmth. Elevate the Sky delivers a nostalgic yet timeless blend of emotive storytelling and vibrant sound, a true celebration of music’s transformative power.
Montse Torres
Ever since I first discovered her, I've appreciated the way in which Montse Torres crafts music that immerses listeners in a narrative-driven world. I find her emotional depth and rich sonic textures captivating. She explores themes of resistance, memory and human resilience against the dehumanizing forces of a technological dystopia.
Her instrumental sophistication is another reason why I so enjoy Montse Torres’ music. Her dynamic range creates tension and intrigue, underscoring her storytelling’s emotional weight. Her music often pairs modern electronic elements with organic sounds like the koto, xylophone or soaring electric guitar solos, adding nuance to her synthscapes.
I enjoy the way in which Montse Torres delves into the struggle between humanity and technology, capturing both defiance and hope. She looks at the resistance against technological dehumanization and the power of love and emotion.
I’m compelled by her focus on preserving human connection and feeling. Her tracks unfold like cinematic stories, set against dystopian cityscapes where love and memory act as beacons of resistance.
The way in which Montse Torres’ music combines emotive elements with atmosphere balances haunting melancholy with glimmers of light. Her layered, evolving soundscapes carry me on a journey of introspection, defiance and hope in the face of looming darkness.
LukHash
I’ve always found LukHash’s blend of digital nostalgia, grandeur, and emotional depth particularly intoxicating. The way in which he draws from 8-bit and chiptune elements evokes the early era of computer music with bubbling chip sounds, spiky digital landscapes and grungy computerized textures. These retro influences are intertwined with modern synth mastery, where glowing, lissome tones bend and twist, majestic melodies soar and broad notes dance with an air of adventure.
I find LukHash’s mixture of kinetic energy and motion quite compelling. Propulsive basslines and massively punching drums drive the low end with explosive speed while sharp-edged rhythms and bouncing synths create a dynamic sense of uplift. His melodies can express moods and feelings moving through dark majesty and aching emotion to dreamy tranquility.
My ears are pleased by the atmosphere and emotion permeating the music, painting vivid scenes of cyberpunk adventures, dangerous digital worlds and shadowy landscapes. The interplay between light and dark is Something that LukHash does well is contrasting gleaming, noble synths with the gritty elements, balancing uplifting triumph with lurking tension.
Ultimately LukHash’s mixture of digital nostalgia, majestic drama, and kinetic intensity creates music that’s powerful, evocative and richly textured.
Sunesis
I am deeply compelled by the way in which Sunesis creates profound musical experiences by blending emotionally Impactful storytelling with Textural soundscapes. I am touched by the way in which her vulnerable, tender vocals tremble with emotion and By her lyrics that explore themes of love, longing, and loss. This emotional depth is complemented by the duality of melancholy and hope, reflecting the complexity of human experiences.
The defining factors that draw me to Sunesis’ sound are its galactic tranquility, stellar glow, and spaced-out environments. Her music has a sense of immensity, transporting listeners to celestial realms. Layers of shimmering, twinkling synths intertwine with gigantic bass and solidly pounding drums, creating dynamic contrasts that ground the ethereal with rhythmic vitality.
Sunesis also has a beautiful touch for evoking flowing sensations. Her music’s rippling motion and gliding notes mirror the emotional journey embedded within. The interplay of light and shadow, desolation and warmth emphasizes the transformative nature of the songs, where struggles resolve into moments of clarity and connection.
By weaving together lush instrumental textures, cosmic imagery, and heartfelt vocals, Sunesis offers a cinematic and introspective auditory experience. Each track becomes a journey through inner emotions and vast, otherworldly realms, resonating deeply with me.
Aisle 9
The way in which Aisle 9 mingles superb production quality, enchanting guitar playing and richly layered synthesizer tapestries immediately makes him one of my favourite synth artists today. I am enamoured of the way in which he uses intricate guitar, complex synth sounds and Intertwining notes to weave an intricate and immersive tapestry Is deeply enjoyable.
I am touched by the way in which emotion flows deeply through Aisle 9’s melodies. Haunting delicacy meets uplifting encouragement, Coming together into tunes that resonate with nostalgia, hope and a tinge of melancholy. Each track carries an aching expressiveness, bringing together loss and yearning while maintaining a sense of forward motion and optimism.
Aisle 9 has a superb sound defined by dynamic and textural layers. Powerful basslines, ethereal synth strings and airy chords interlace with punchy drums and vibrant melodies that sail effortlessly through the compositions. Sharp bursts of rhythm and digitally flickering notes add texture, while The artist's solos emphasize moments of free-flowing, joyful energy.
There's a deep atmospheric quality about the artist's music that lends it additional depth and engaging power. I find myself moved by his soundscapes. Aisle 9 creates a sound that is both grounded and otherworldly, carrying me on a deeply moving auditory journey.
Calida J
The way in which Calida J weaves a rich tapestry of emotions, blending themes of love, memory and self-discovery is charming to me.Her compelling Strength as they explore the complexity of human relationships, touching on longing, heartbreak and reconciliation. Her Writing explores the tension between closeness and separation, often framing these emotions with a sense of unfulfilled longing.
Nostalgia and remembrance are central motifs, evoked through Strong imagery and songwriting that captures intense feelings. many of her songs acknowledge the impermanence of cherished moments, while also celebrating their impact.Calida J Also explores personal transformation, balancing the heartache of past experiences with optimism and resilience.
Her frequent collaborator, Fonz Tramontano, weaves his own magic, using his synth skills to evoke cosmic glow, diamond galaxies and velvet night. He creates an otherworldly atmosphere, emphasizing Calida J’s intense and grabbing performances.
Another reason why I so enjoy Calida J is the way in which her emotionally expressive vocals amplify her storytelling, she can deliver aching emotion and pure soul with trembling vulnerability or defiant power.
Through her heartfelt narratives, introspection and evocative melodies, I am struck by the way in which Calida J invites listeners on a transformative journey, exploring love, loss and the human condition with profound sincerity and hope.
Beckett
Beckett’s music always seizes me as he fuses nostalgia and rhythmic energy, blending retro influences with contemporary flair. With his smooth, funky grooves and a retro-tastic production style, his sound is heartfelt and sharp, rooted in synth-based melodies that pay homage to genres from classic video game music and Japanese city pop.
I’m entranced by Beckett’s voice as it glides effortlessly through sultry, smooth tones and gritty intensity, full of captivating versatility. I also enjoy his diverse instrumentation like funky slap bass, layered synth, jazzy guitar solos and talkbox effects. He creates an immersive experience that’s equal parts playful and sophisticated. I also find Beckett’s knack for catchy melodies and fun synth solos to be deeply pleasing.
His collaborations are another reason that I enjoy Beckett’s work with guest performances from artists like Luca Ricardo and Rachel Jones adding depth and variety. Each piece radiates atmosphere, conjuring imagery of city lights, cerulean skies or intergalactic adventures.
Beckett’s ability to seamlessly meld synthwave, funk, jazz fusion and city pop allows him to craft music that feels both timeless and fresh. The result is a soundscape that invites me to dance, dream and revel in a richly textured auditory journey.
Seersha
I find the way in which Seersha’s music skillfully combines excellent storytelling, dynamic instrumentation and lush soundscapes. Her explorations of empowerment, resilience and emotional complexity allow her to explore the highs and lows of love, loss and personal growth. She blends introspection with poetic imagery to create intense narratives.
Her silky, emotive voice is another reason why I enjoy Seersha so much. Her vocals are aching, wistful and dynamic, as they pull me into the heart of her storytelling. Seersha’s vocals, often complemented by collaborators like Juan Cezar from Frisky Monkey, add depth and contrast to her sound, creating a harmonious blend of styles and tones.
I also enjoy the way in which Seersha's backing music features layered synths, undulating basslines and bursting drums. She uses textures such as shimmering chimes and glowing sonic waves to generate ethereal atmospheres while throbbing beats and oscillating rhythms provide a powerful undercurrent. Guitars, saxophones and even panpipes further enhance the dynamic and immersive experience.
In the end, it's the blend of resilience and vulnerability in Seersha’s music that most attracts me to it. She layers intricate soundscapes with heartfelt vocals and introspective lyrics. I find her music deeply pleasing for the way in which it invites me into a world of emotional exploration and sonic sophistication.
STYGIAN RUIN - A Violent Egress
Soundtrack to a Burning Sky: A Review of A Violent Egress by Stygian Ruin. Written by Chris Magdalenski.
Written By Chris Magdalenski
Soundtrack to a Burning Sky: A Review of A Violent Egress by Stygian Ruin
There's a world where those that worship the old gods succeeded. The fruits of their blood rites ripening on a tree of sacrifice, only to come crashing to Earth in unspeakable glory. Monstrous terrors released laying waste to everything within a tentacles reach.
Oslo's Stygian Ruin brings the darkness of that world to life with their latest release A Violent Egress. Comprised of two tracks that clock in at around 40 minutes total, the album is nothing short of an epic journey through a post-apocalyptic hellscape.
Like their previous releases, the music is darkly beautiful. Masterfully orchestrated with multiple layers of sonic texture to uncover though repeat listenings.
The vocals are a character by themselves. They lurk in the depths of the mix, guttural growls that emerge from the grinding guitars and sinister synths with all the menace of an eldritch creature.
This is mood music for the end of days, and I offer that as the highest of compliments. With five previous releases to explore I'm just getting acquainted with this band. I highly recommend you do the same.
For more, visit https://stygianruin.bandcamp.com/
5 Years Of My Favourite #Synthfam Artists - Part One
by Karl Magi
Introduction
This is a showcase of some of my favourite artists from the #synthfam across five years of reviewing synthesizer-based music. This was a labour of love for me, as well as a great challenge to decide on. There are so many tremendous artists out there in the scene that it was very difficult for me to choose the people to feature in this article. I thought long and hard about who would and wouldn’t make the list. If you’re not here, know that it has nothing to do with the quality or relevance of your music. This was simply a subjective and purely emotive list to put together. This is part one, so please stay tuned for part two!
NeverMann
I can’t get enough of NeverMann’s emotionally evocative vocals, his ability to reference the ’80s in a fresh and engaging way and the quality of his melodic and production choices. He also writes lyrics that perfectly capture the vibes created by the rest of the music.
I find his ability to pour out emotion compelling. He has an earnest and heartfelt delivery and an ability to capture the lyrics with his strong, unique voice. He’s especially good at creating a sense of affection in his performances.
The way in which he remains powerfully ’80s-influenced without crossing into cliché is something I enjoy. He doesn’t just emulate the sound of that era; he captures it and makes it fresh again. I also enjoy the jazzy, groove-based elements in his music.
His melodic writing is another strong draw for me. He writes melodies that are high-quality and full of expression as they move between brightness and wistful emotion. I also enjoy the way his melodies complement his vocal style.
I’ve always been drawn to his sharp, clear production. He manages to blend all the different parts together while allowing each to remain defined and individual. The end result is deep and layered.
Dana Jean Phoenix
Dana Jean Phoenix is one of the first synthwave performers I ever heard, and she has had a profound influence on my tastes and enjoyment of the genre. I’ve always been drawn to her powerful vocal abilities, entertaining songwriting and the retro aesthetic that permeates all of her music.
Her intense vocal performances move me. Her voice can soar and exude deep feeling or jump for joy. She brings real guts to her singing and the backing music foregrounds her vocal ability to great effect and makes me pay attention to what’s being sung.
The blend of pure ’80s pop vibes and high quality production is another reason I enjoy her work. While I can’t deny the nostalgic feelings her music stirs up, she manages to keep things fresh and modern in terms of production values. The blend is intensely ear-pleasing.
I also admire how she explores escape, love and emotional complexity in her well-written pop songs. She touches on a complex variety of feelings while keeping things fun and listenable. There’s an earnestness and warmth in her music that I find compelling.
L'Avenue
Ever since I first discovered L'Avenue, I was struck by the tranquility, hope and vivid sonic imagery within his music. I enjoy the way in which it’s tied together by flowing, layered elements and his ability to create musical depth.
I've always been struck by the mixture of hopeful feelings and serenity that fills L'Avenue's music. He uses water and tropical elements to create a sense of delicately lapping blue waters and sun-drenched beaches.
The layered lusciousness and depth of L'Avenue’s music is another compelling aspect that draws me in. He smoothly interlaces a wide variety of synthesizer sounds to conjure different moods and atmospheres.
I enjoy the way in which L'Avenue uses instrumental elements like guitar, percussion and trumpet to deepen the atmospheric and evocative nature of his sounds. I like the auditory explorations on which he takes me as his albums and singles unfold.
Another aspect of L'Avenue’s music that attracts me is the auditory aesthetic he goes for. There's a cool, 1980s retro feel that conjures up images of white suits, pastel walls and palm trees at the poolside. I find that the artist paints strong images for me with his music and immerses me in the sensations he wants to elicit.
Chelsea Owen
From the moment I discovered her, I’ve been impressed by Chelsea Owen’s artistry—her moving voice, her skills as a songwriter and her talent for creating vivid sonic and emotional experiences. Her music is not only well-crafted but also deeply affecting.
Chelsea Owen’s voice was the first thing that captivated me. It’s powerful and gripping, effectively conveying feeling, passion and depth. I also admire the soundscapes in her music. Collaborating with skilled producers, she creates varied synth textures that focus on contrasts, such as the interplay of low-end drive and high-end luminosity. The backing music serves to enhance her vocal performances more fully.
The way in which Chelsea Owen infuses her performances and lyrics with feeling and passion also captures me. She fills her songs with deeply personal themes of heartache, longing and self-expression. The way in which she harnesses those themes with her voice elevates the emotional weight of her songs as they unfold.
As a whole, Chelsea Owen is one of those artists who has a cohesive and rounded approach to music. She is able to explore all of the varied emotions that make us human and connect with them fully through her voice and words.
Cat Temper
I appreciate Cat Temper’s creative and playful approach to music, his mastery of layered synth sounds and his ability to create immersive, emotionally rich and replayable auditory experiences. He stands out as one of the freshest and most unique artists in the scene today.
Cat Temper’s playfulness and inventiveness shine through in his music. I enjoy how he has fun with the creative process, making music that is clearly engaging for him to produce. His eclectic approach allows him to experiment with a wide array of tones and textures that create fascinating sounds.
I’m also a fan of the melodies he writes. They stay with me and evoke various moods and emotions. Each track is a journey, and his compositions are always fresh and unique.
The immersive quality of Cat Temper’s music is another highlight. He takes full advantage of synthesized music’s dynamic and emotional range, creating tracks that feel like self-contained worlds.
Finally, his charming and witty touches add to the appeal. He isn’t afraid to bring joy or humor into his work and his pun-based titles, often featuring cat-themed wordplay, are some of the best in the business.
Bunny X
Since I first reviewed their music, I've had deep respect for Bunny X’s artistic approach In which emotion, nostalgia, collaboration and detailed soundscapes come together to create compelling synth-driven music. The '80s retro aesthetics are always close by but they never overwhelm the music’s quality and artistry.
Bunny X’s music centres around their emotive and touching voices. The vocals capture affection, longing and hope with sensitivity and energy. Their voices reach out and take hold of the listener, pulling them in. I've always found their vocal performances especially enjoyable as they connect with me deeply.
Bunny X also stands out for their melodic writing which is warm, uplifting, yearning and bittersweet. Those melodies help carry the themes of emotion, connection and escapism then fill their song writing. Both elements reinforce one another and make their music especially rich and powerful as a listening experience for me.
I also enjoy Bunny X’s ability to work with other musicians in the synth music scene. Their collaborations are well done and skillfully mingle their own sound with those of other artists to create refreshing sonic combinations. Their ability allows them to enhance the music's depth and character.
Color Theory
The emotional intensity, vocal expressiveness and dynamic musical textures that define Color Theory’s ( Brian Hazard) work have always drawn me in. I enjoy his ethereal voice and distinctive sound that captures emotional depth. The way in which his lyrics explore human experience is compelling and I enjoy the journeys on which he takes me through his songwriting.
In terms of his musical approach, I am drawn to the way in which he dynamically contrasts sounds that move between brightness and darkness, weight and delicacy. He also has an ear for synth and bass interactions and often incorporates luminous, serene sounds that add to the touching nature of his work. His use of some fascinating tones, textures and timbres gives his music added complexity.
Color Theory has a sound that touches on 1980’s New Wave but retains a unique quality of its own. He is able to make music that intrigues my ears with its interlocking layers well adding a voice that feels classic and both of a time and beyond it. I've always been a fan of his fearless exploration of challenging feelings and ideas in his songs.
Star Madman
Since I first heard it, I found Star Madman’s music to be deeply atmospheric and emotionally rich with a strong narrative voice and sonic landscapes that are complex yet accessible. I'm always enamoured of her singing abilities and focus on high quality songwriting.
Warm, caressing and expressive are all words I used to describe Star Madman’s vocal performances. She has a strong ability to reach out with her voice and surround the listener with it. She uses her talents to deliver her well written lyrics to full effect.
I am also drawn to her music by the themes explored in her lyrics. She can write songs that are encouraging and empowering, creating sensations of uplift and positive progress. She can also delve deeply into more complicated and challenging emotions in her songs. No matter what topic she writes on, her words always get right to the heart of the matter.
Her approach to music making is lusciously layered and full of contrast between light and shadow. There's also a frequent focus on mystical imagery that adds to the intensity of the vocals and lyrics in her music. The fact that she makes all of her own music also deepens its meaning.
Russell Nash
I enjoy many elements in Russell Nash’s music including its dynamic motion, luminous imagery and emotional depth. It creates a strong interplay between synths, bass and percussion that evokes a wide range of emotional states and sensations in the music. I find myself transported by his layered synthscapes.
One of the consistent elements of Russell Nash's music is the way in which it creates uplifting emotion through sounds that have warmth and hopeful qualities. Many of his melodies also have an encouraging and positive feeling to them which I find engaging.
Another part of Russell Nash's music that compels me are the light and lustre he creates in his tracks. I enjoy the diamond illumination of the synths he uses to paint his sonic landscapes as they interact with other auditory elements. He evokes flow and motion in the music he writes, weaving an auditory tapestry.
I also find the way in which he creates musical energy and drive quite exciting. His music is full of good energy and driving motion that permeates every layer of the tracks. I continually find an irresistible sense of liveliness and irrepressible motion within his writing which is deeply enjoyable.
The Lightning Kids’ Emma Ballantine
From the first time I heard The Lightning Kids, I was captivated by Emma Ballantine’s passionate vocal performances. She blends emotional vulnerability, dynamic storytelling and layered soundscapes to create a deeply resonant experience. They explore escape, desire and connection, underscored by textured instrumentation.
I’m attracted to a recurring theme that The Lightning Kids explore: breaking free from conformity and embracing youthful freedom with a sense of risk and abandon. Their songs express a longing for release and self-discovery. Desire and intimacy are central with passion infused into both lyrics and delivery. Emma Ballantine’s tender, emotive voice is uplifting, effortlessly carrying the narrative weight.
I've always been strongly pulled in by the way in which The Lightning Kids’ gliding synth textures, glowing guitar and crying saxophone solos create layers of sonic beauty. I find that the interplay of vocals and instruments creates an atmosphere that is simultaneously nostalgic and forward-looking, capturing moments of reflection and possibility.
I am drawn to the way that The Lightning Kids’ music weaves a tapestry of emotional storytelling, that blends hope, passion and melancholy. Emma Ballantine’s ability to balance heartfelt vocals with the band’s layered soundscapes is captivating, connecting and inspiring.
Aeronexus
Aeronexus’ music explores cosmic adventure, emotional depth and the intricate interplay of dynamic musical textures, all tied together by strong visual and narrative qualities. I find his ability to create a synthesized journey quite attractive. A sense of urgency and tension often fills the music as it unfolds. The way in which Aeronexus generates emotion in his music draws me in as he evokes feelings that run between soaring triumph and pained tragedy.
I'm also drawn to the tones, textures and timbres of the synth sounds with which Aeronexus paints his music. I’m impressed by his beautifully woven synth palette and his use of unique instrument sounds that range from panpipes and chimes to Theremin. He also has a strong grasp of drum and bass dynamics that add more weight and shape to his music.
Aeronexus’ music is often filled with imagery that explores vast, velvet blackness and conjures images of nebulae and constellations. I also enjoy his skill at using music to weave strong imagery in my mind.
I appreciate Aeronexus’ layered and evolving compositions as he combines textures and sensations with melody to further deepen this music’s emotional qualities. I also enjoy his approach to creating musical contrast and balance across his albums.
I Am Boleyn
From the moment I discovered her, I was drawn to I Am Boleyn’s ability to convey loss, longing and liberation in her voice. She weaves stories that are emotionally resonant and vividly atmospheric. She takes me on journeys are both literal and emotional, marked by determination and the desire to move forward.
I Am Boleyn’s voice radiates clarity and heartfelt emotion in a way that pulls me into her music. Her voice is clear and fresh-sounding as she delivers each song’s lyrics. She is able to press feelings home through her airy and delicate singing, adding more depth and breadth to her music.
I am enamoured of the way in which I Am Boleyn’s music uses strong imagery to evoke a cinematic quality, heightening the emotional stakes and adding texture to the music's storytelling. Ideas of chemistry and connection interweave with moments of empowerment and agency in her work.
I Am Boleyn’s vocals work well with shimmering, glimmering and pulsing synths to paint layered soundscapes that mirror the emotional intensity of her vocals. Dynamic basslines and driving rhythms propel the energy, while flickering synths and broad, trembling tones add depth and resonance.
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