The Secret Chord -Generation X

Review by Karl Magi

Overall Album Impressions

The Secret Chord’s Generation X combines nostalgia, brooding darkness, blossoming hope and a memory of difficult times that may serve us in good stead as the world changes again. This album blends strong vocal performances, intelligently written lyrics and a musical atmosphere that mingles memory, danger and hope in a richly woven whole. I enjoy the way this album transports me while still remaining grounded in the realities and challenges we face.

One of the first features that drew me toward Generation X is the atmosphere it creates. The way it mingles shadow, memory and a desire for change with richly layered synth sounds creates a feeling of nostalgia, cut through by the gritty realities of the world. As a whole, I find that it carries me to another realm while reminding me of what's happening in the world today.

Another reason for my enjoyment of Generation X is the way in which the vocalists add weight and depth with their performances. I enjoy the spoken-word German lyrics that NINA delivers, along with Ollie Wride’s soulful performance on “Daniel.” Ida Trosell and Joakim Paulsson also have compelling voices. Each performer has a unique sound and carries the moods and sensations of the words and music as the album unfolds.

I find the lyrics on Generation X compelling. They explore the days of the Cold War, love and loss and the current world situation. The words are well-chosen, painting strong imagery and making a statement about freedom, oppression and finding hope in the face of challenges. The lyrics are both painful and uplifting throughout the album.

The way the synth sounds, guitar and percussion combine creates music that can be gentle or brooding, filling the music with a 1980s vibe that still feels fresh due to modern production and subtle twists that elevate the overall feel of the album. The lushness and expressiveness captivate me.

My Favourite Songs Analyzed

“Dreamers” comes to life as rapidly pulsating, sharply cutting synth gleams with flaring incandescence while the drums and bass kick into a classic 1980s groove. Dark synth rises and misty clouds as the angular, bright pulse continues to tumble and the drums and bass punch forward. Joakim Paulsson’s production weaves reverent choral notes that climb as densely glistening synth carries a catchy and uplifting melody, tinged by darkness. A flaring synth rises with the melody as the dramatic low end moves below.

NINA's spoken word German segment adds a mixture of coldness and nostalgia before Ida Trosell’s expressive voice calls out. The melody she carries is rich with emotive expression as NINA's voice intertwines with hers, adding a compelling counterpoint, while the spoken word parts add darkness.

In the distance, shining synth gleams as Ida Trosell’s touching voice rises, the chorus mixing warmth and shade as the drums continue to pulse. I enjoy the way the song captures innocence and danger in an intoxicating mix.

Chimes glitter as NINA's chanting voice calls out before Ida Trosell delivers the song's lyrics with deep feeling. A synth flickers as the low end surges with ominous intensity. The chorus rises again, suffusing the music with pained luminosity. The drums thunder in a steady heartbeat as the chiming notes flash again. The driving low end tumbles as the drums kick, cutting while rough-edged synth grows and lucid notes shine. The guitar is feverishly lustrous and carries a melody that soars and grabs my heart while the drums continue to rebound. There's a soulful richness in the guitar that I find enjoyable before the song ends.

The first narrator, speaking in German, says, "We were the children of the Cold War, caught in the middle," before the second narrator adds that they were the dreamers. She speaks of "tyranny on our doorstep, baby," while the first narrator points out that they were young and didn’t have a clue, adding, "Our parents must have been afraid." The second narrator asks, "Father, do you think they'll drop the bomb?" Now, the German-speaking narrator describes a tug-of-war between the superpowers of communism and capitalism.

Our main storyteller speaks of "fear of the Eastern sun though the day is done," while the second narrator talks about "radioactivity for me and you," adding that she's rising up. The main storyteller goes on to say that Chernobyl made them fear the end of the world was coming, adding, "We never realized how bad it was, blissfully unaware of the game behind the scenes." She recalls how, while they rode their bikes around in their "safe suburbia," the Navy was hunting Soviet subs in the Swedish archipelagos.

The second narrator says that Berlin was the center of the Cold War and, even though they were caught in the middle, they were the dreamers. The first narrator talks about songs that told stories about the world's end, while the second narrator references "99 balloons on their way to the horizon," like one of the songs that became an anthem for their generation. The German-speaking narrator mentions Reagan and the Warsaw Pact, while, as children, "Peter's Pop-Show made us happy."

Our main storyteller says, "We gathered in our basements, baby," before the second narrator points out that Sweden wasn’t as neutral as it seemed—it always looked to the West. As fighter jets flew overhead, the first storyteller repeats that they had no idea how bad it was. They remained unaware of what was unfolding behind the scenes as they rode their bikes through suburbia. The song concludes with the main storyteller again mentioning the Navy hunting Soviet subs and finishing with, "It was a silent storm."

Quickly rippling chimes twinkle as the drums pound with dynamism to kick off “Generation X”. Triumphant yet melancholy chords shift as the rough-edged, glimmering synth carries a frolicking melody with a feathery touch. The drums trip along as Ida Trosell’s voice calls out with a melody that dreams and hurts, leavened by nostalgia.

The vocals slip by with caressing easiness as the lambent synth skips along with a melody that drifts with uplifting feeling. Both singers bring their voices together now, Joakim Paulsson’s deeper tones supporting the moving strength of Ida Trosell’s voice.

The drums rebound in freewheeling zeal as the sparkling synth suffuses the background. Now a minor key tinge touches the melody as the chords jump with effulgence and the drums continue to pulsate. In the distance, the glittering synth trickles and now the potent drums explode with the gruff yet brilliant synth as the chorus rings out with memory and hope before the song ends.

The storyteller reflects on a time of "the CIA, the KGB and the Red Machine," describing it as a "silent fight for supremacy." She goes on to say that it was "a golden age but an age of decadence," and that things had to change.

Our narrator points out that they were kids in Generation X and felt so free growing up. She adds, "We were raised on MTV, wondering what life was like on the other side," and if those on the other side also dreamed of world peace and democracy.

Now, the storyteller adds that although they were kids, they were still aware and believed the world should be a better place. She goes on to say, "We saw the impact of Live Aid, people on barricades because they wanted change and to be free again."

“Checkpoint Charlie” begins as staticky radio transmission sounds are joined by evenly throbbing drums and a guitar drives with shadowy energy above the electric bass. A gently lit synth carries an enigmatic and mournful melody as the drums continue to shape the music. The guitar intertwines with insistent motion as the low end pushes on.

Ida Trosell captures the sense of being trapped and full of the need to fulfill her ultimate goal as the drums continue to drive forward. As the chorus leaps out, Ida Trosell cries out with pained expression as the low end adds shape. The guitar swirls and supports the vocals as they drift with loss and despair while glossy notes interweave and sparkle. The electric bass adds dynamism as both singers call out.

The darkness in the guitar adds weight while Ida Trosell delivers the lyrics with direct expression, carrying me along into the mood of the song. A widely dancing synth moves with the strummed electric bass before the song comes to an end.

Our narrator says that no one can pass the checkpoint or "the wall that separates us all, the strip of death between East and West." She adds that no one will pass it again, so you should turn and walk away to "live to see another day.”

The storyteller asks if the song's subject can hear her, adding, "I really need you by my side. It no longer matters if I live or die," as she longs for a day when the wall finally comes down. As they raise their glasses high, "we will laugh and cry because freedom has arrived."

Now our narrator points out that they live two blocks apart, "but it might as well be across the globe.” She feels like she's losing hope and has thought of attempting an escape because "I want to see your face again, to hear your voice and feel your skin."

The sound of a busy park and birds opens "Take Me Home Tonight." The drums, bass and synth dreamily drift before rising into glittering life, gliding out with a softly touching melody. The drums pulse smoothly as the melody is filled with wistful memories. Ida Trosell's voice is sweet and softly wraps around me as she carries the longing in the lyrics. Ringing guitar adds tender luminosity as Ida Trosell expresses the confusion and ache of the lyrics. The synth exudes luscious effulgence as the vocals carry the chorus, full of need and desire.

The drums continue to guide the music as the guitar fills the music with brilliance and Ida Trosell’s voice carries passionate pain. The drums are a smooth guide as the synth weaves a web of crystalline radiance. I am drawn to the way in which Ida Trosell takes hold of my heart as the guitar carries a solo that fills me with calm while still creating a sense of need. The chorus slides out again as the vocals drive the lyrics home. Scintillating brightness slides from the synth as Ida Trosell's voice soars to the sky. The guitar weaves a melody full of intense love and longing before the song ends.

The storyteller says that summer is over, but she still doesn't know what to do. She adds, "I've spent the last four years trying to forget about you," but her friends saw the song's subject at the mall, so now she knows they're back in town. Now she's gone from MIT to working at the local video store and "my dad gave me the summer to figure things out," but she finds herself even more lost than she was before.

Our narrator asks the song's subject if they're coming to the party tonight. She says, "I need to know 'cause I've been waiting for you all my life." In the warmth of the night, her feelings are out of control—she wants "skin on skin" and to be taken home by the other person. She adds that she'll have her chance as they are "getting ready to move."

The storyteller never asked the song's subject out when they were in high school because "I was so scared, thinking I'd end up looking like a fool." Now they're together at a party and "everyone wants you, but I've been waiting for you all my life." The other person sees her waiting across the patio and they’re together as she’s "having the best night of my life." She says that "the night is young, but my feelings run wild" before concluding that she wants the other person to take her home.

"We Were The Cold War Kids" starts with ominous, deeply reverberant synth pulses and a guitar adds another dark note. A kick drum slowly pulses as the darkly intertwining synth moves with gruff edges. A radiant synth calls out with haunting energy as the guitar intermingles with the drums and bass in the distance. Weight and a hint of danger hover in the guitar as the drums drive on.

An elevated, ghostly sound glides as Joakim Paulsson conveys the ache of the lyrics, pouring out anxiety and tension. Ida Trossell weaves her voice in as both singers call out in the chorus, a defiant call to fight the growing danger. The drums keep guiding the music as Joakim Paulsson captures a sense of imminent threat. In contrast, there is warmth and love in the next line.

I find this song’s reflection on a growing possibility of authoritarian takeover poignant. The drums continue to guide the music as the chorus rises with a sense of resistance. Softly glimmering synth tumbles as Joakim Paulsson conveys a sense of worry in his strong voice. There’s a worshipful quality in the floating synth before the chorus calls out again, full of intimidating portent, before the song comes to an end.

Our narrator speaks about how they were the Cold War kids in their "journey towards adolescence." They were caught between the East and the West as they watched the "Iron Curtain fall and the Berlin Wall collapsing like a domino" to open the path to a new era. She adds, "Now it's happening again, are we reaching the end?"

The storyteller says that now "people seem to want freedom from choice" and have no sense of liberty. She likens them to a "flock of sheep who think war is peace." She says that if you want freedom, "it's time to fight autocracy" as history repeats itself.

Our narrator says that "the sun is zooming in and the Doomsday Clock is ticking" while crops grow thin. In the song’s subject’s eyes, all she sees is "a warmth, a paradise, glowing in a world turning black" as our sisters and brothers are being attacked.

Now the storyteller says that "like Winston and Julia, rebellion’s what we need if we want to be free." She concludes that "the world is moving backwards; love is not all we need."

Actively moving electric bass and easily guiding drums commence “Polonia.” Tightly wound synth moves in a melancholy melodic pattern as the drums and bass push forward. The synth chords have a flashing sheen as the drums continue to pulsate.

Ida Trosell’s touching voice captures all of the emptiness and craving for freedom in the lyrics. The electric bass propels the music with undulating dynamism as Ida Trosell’s voice carries aching defiance. Now, Joakim Paulsson joins her and their chorus reflects victory and a sense of hope as the satiny synth suffuses the music with gentle illumination.

The vocals touch my heart, conveying the aspirations and fears of the people. The chorus rises again with a sense of vengeance and renewed positivity as the drums continue to pulse, while a guitar calls out with encouragement and warmth before the song ends.

The storyteller wants out, adding that the life she's living isn't a life worth leading. She feels like there must be a place that offers more—"a place where freedom reigns, where liberty’s not in chains."

Where she is, the shelves are empty, people are on strike, imprisoned, or killed and there is no freedom of expression. Our narrator says, "Look what they've done to our beloved Polonia," declaring that they will no longer submit to oppression. She adds, "They will see—solidarity. Our movement is spreading ripples across the country."

She states that they will not rest until they are free once more and democracy is restored. The storyteller dreams of a place where people live freely, somewhere to the West. However, "there's a wall between us and our happiness" as people suffer from a lack of human rights. She ends on a note of hope: "Something's happening—people are starting to fight."

“The Baltic Way” kicks off with effulgent synth shifts in softly caressing chords that wash over the music. Ida Trosell’s voice is touching and full of quiet determination as the drums barely brush against the rising, richly surrounding chords.

Ida’s voice has a strong core to its sweetness as rough-edged bass undulates and the drums pound. Her voice rises with a sense of hope slowly being fulfilled. Joakim Paulsson now joins her as the drums and bass create a heartbeat. The strumming guitar moves while an ardent synth exudes a brilliant glow.

The chorus soars, filling me with passion. The drums continue pulsing as the entangling guitar drifts past and the rough-edged bass rumbles. The vocals are strong in their opposition to oppression. The background is full of fondness as the drums continue forward. The chorus climbs, gliding with positivity, while the triumphant synth flows. As the song ends, perseverance and joy radiate through and the track closes with the synth shining and filling the music with a sense of indomitable happiness.

Our narrator states that they have been restrained for far too long—"if we don't act, this will all be gone." She tells their oppressors that they will learn, because the people are "tired of standing in line for bread" and have had enough of being oppressed. She says the tide will turn and "there has got to be something better out there—maybe collective action can take us there."

The storyteller declares that their rulers will learn: "We will not let you destroy our land. We will not bury our heads in the sand." She adds that the tide will turn and "this is the Baltic Way." They will not remain silent for one more day and "will sing this song for everyone who's gone."

Our narrator says their defiance will be a million voices raised—"to overthrow the evil empire, ‘cause it must go." She adds that they are tired of being ordered around and will no longer listen to their oppressors. She concludes, "So many sisters and brothers dead to this day. We almost lost ourselves along the way. The tide will turn."

Conclusion

Generation X captivates me, heart and soul, drawing me into its vocal expression and lyrical depth. Out of all the albums so far this year, this is one of my favourites for how it emotionally engages me and holds my attention on repeat listens.

PALINDRONES’ Electronic Epic Saga

Written by Vero Kitsuné

UK-based synthpop and electronica duo, PALINDRONES, just unveiled their latest long play, “Chapter 2: The Slender Blade,” part of a continuous, esoteric-themed electronic saga. Before we get into “Chapter 2: The Slender Blade,” let’s first revisit “Chapter 1: With Fearful Velocity” where it all began - a mythical science fiction tale centering around humankind’s first contact with extraterrestrial life.

“Ch 1: With Fearful Velocity” beautifully meshes various ambient, electronica, EBM, darkwave and synthpop treatments. The opening track “Escape Velocity” starts off atmospheric and epic with bits of spoken word art before breaking into drum and bass sections. Then we have more of the traditional synthpop tracks like “Coma Berenices,” carrying some tasteful, lush and catchy vocal melodies with sensitive, hopeful and doe-eyed delivery by singer Karen Bell - a particular signature sound we encounter through their works. The record carries on into a very infectious trance-like segment in “Anima,” with Karen’s soaring yet delicate vocals intertwining with the pulsating, driving beats that transport listeners to liminal spaces. I’m particularly fond of the type of feeling this track evokes - it brings me back to the mid-2000s London club vibes of my youth.

Chapter 1 takes a brief repose with atmospheric ballads like “Leviathan” and “Lemuria” - two tracks that give nod to the great legends of the ancient past and mythologies long gone, but with narratives served in a very polished and modern electric soundscapes. The record escalates back into a clubby, pumping pace surging with fast saw basses in “Samadhi” before relaxing into the dream-like drama of “Sakura” - the record’s finale that begins very ambient-like before breaking into trip hop segments reminiscent of Massive Attack.

The following LP, “Ch 2: The Slender Blade” continues the profound meshes of various synth, techno and electronic treatments with the mythological story-telling, but we are seeing a bit more polished elevation in their overall production, and more advanced and sophisticated songwriting. The stunning intro “Sunspot” harkens cinematic scores before brilliantly dropping into the rapid-firing bass arps, majestic pads and crystalline bell-laden of “Kryne Lamiya,” carrying harmonious and infectious duet vocals of both Karen and Jamie. “Abraxas” continues the drum and bass motif against ambient soundspaces from the previous record, but this time topped with soaring vocals, while “Azatoth” incorporates some distorted spoken (or rather, shouted) words against erratic, countering poly beats and beautiful synth drones weaving in and out of space.

Then we enter “The Dark Forest” and “The Light Forest” - the wondrous twin tracks meant to be experienced together. “The Dark Forest” starts off deeply immersed in atmospheric drama, with some lush drones and brassy synth pads reminiscent of the great Vangelis. Despite of the title, the composition evokes hope as though light breaking through the dense dark forest, before fully emerging into the brightness of “The Light Forest” - one of the most vibrant yet tender tracks in the record, with spirited vocal performances shimmering with optimism.

“Sùil Nan Diathan” enters and ushers listeners into a magical portal with its cinematic, dark and mysterious ambient composition. We first experienced this track last year as a Winter Solstice offering, complete with a stunning storybook visuals about two travelers in the midst of a post-apocalyptic tundra, under the watch of the Eldritch gods. To experience it once again in context of this record is quite a treat.

Chapter 2 concludes with the trance-like, clubby, pulsating beats of “Animus” and “Resonance Factor” - both with marked with the duo’s infectious, bright vocal performances carrying buoyant and hopeful qualities against sweeping synths that altogether give just a touch of new millennia club nostalgia.

Both concept LPs by Palindrones are shaped not only by their extraordinary ability to mesh different electronic genres together, but their ability to present depth in concepts and story-telling filtered through modern and yet familiar sounds. It’s a clever mix of the esoteric, the nostalgic and the futuristic, balancing both dark and light aspects with messages of hope and positivity, while transporting audiences to otherworldly spaces as well as the club halls of their youth.

In a world hampered by playlist culture, Palindrones’ Chapter 1 and Chapter 2 records are a pleasant and generous reminder of the importance and relevance of experiential long plays created with elevated concepts filled with not only bangers, but also with thought-provoking, immersive pieces. Each record on its own is a complete experience, but combined together, they are an epic electronic saga like no other.

For more Palindrones, visit https://palindronesofficial.bandcamp.com/

Retrograth - Sparks and Shimmer

Review by Karl Magi

Overall Album Impressions

Retrograth’s Sparks and Shimmer explores both the literal and metaphorical meaning of gold in society and the world at large. He examines both the consequences and significance of gold as a symbol and its influence on human behavior. The way in which he combines his distinctive, gripping vocal style with well-written lyrics and a musical backdrop that mingles melancholy, triumph and seething darkness draws me into this philosophical and thought-provoking musical exploration.

The way in which Retrograth's voice takes hold of me is one of the reasons for my enjoyment of Sparks and Shimmer He doesn't sound like anybody else on the synth music scene, combining weight with expressive depth in a way that drives home the meaning within his words. The unique tone of his voice gives the music a mingled shadow and energy as it unfolds.

I'm also deeply impressed by Retrograth’s songwriting abilities. Each song explores some aspect of striving for gold in either a literal or figurative form. It examines the ways in which greed, the desire to win and a hunger for dominance are interwoven with how gold has been perceived and how it has functioned in society.

The music on Sparks and Shimmer combines a powerful bass line with fascinating synth tones, timbres and textures to convey moods that range from heavy darkness to victorious energy, moving through complex layers and mingled feelings. The end result is rich, layered and complements Retrograth’s singing and songwriting abilities.

My Favourite Tracks Analyzed

"Shine" begins with heavily explosive drums moving below a seething, angular synth pulse as shining notes carry a melody full of leaping dynamism and irrepressible energy. The heaving weight below pushes the smoothly glowing synth melody before Retrograth’s shadowed vocals carry an enigmatic and haunted melody above the broadly throbbing low end.

The chorus adds rich illumination as the guitar howls and shivers in the distance. The drums and bass thunder and propel the music as the gleaming notes carry an intertwining, ghostly melodic line. The surging energy drives the track as the scintillating synth shines. Retrograth’s darkly trembling vocals call out with icy power while the guitar cascades and the massive drums and bass continue to launch the track. I enjoy the lurking threat as the heavy low end carries the song to an end.

The narrator talks about gold being "a link between us, a chain round your neck" as well as a sign of affection that glows and glimmers. He adds that it will "shine on." He goes on to say that it is "a limited resource, an ancient ware" as well as a symbol of kingdoms full of "sparks and shimmer."

Sharp-edged synth cutting through drifting notes as rocketing drums erupt as "Above and Below" starts. Hollow, lush-sounding synth sings an expansive and energizing melody above the rushing drums. The vocals call out with a melody full of haunting drama as Retrograth’s resonant voice pulls me in. The drums continue to burst as the deeply vibrant vocals are surrounded by deep-toned, open-voiced synth that trembles while explosive notes skip, heavy and dense, as the low end erupts.

Swirling, delicate sounds flash with golden reflections as the lead singer carries the mystical melody, adding an element of timeless power. String-like synth shines with iridescent light as the punchy drums and bass continue to charge. Jagged notes slice as the leaping percussion continues to flow and Retrograth’s evocative voice carries the lyrics before the song rushes to an end.

Our storyteller talks about the alchemical obsession of finding the Philosopher's Stone and eternal life by "mixing wisdom with magical stones." He speaks of how "in the chemical heaven of the divine," alchemists sought truth in "the golden drops of youth."

The narrator talks about turning base metals into gold to "distill the essence of the soul." He reminds us "as above, so below." He says that "in the spiritual cocktail, the substances and rites," there's a purification that results in "the shiny golden light."

"Luminance" commences with a heavily thudding kick drum and rapidly rippling, twitching synth as a bending series of notes wobbles. The bass is gigantic and heavy as the synth pulses with a warning sensation. The sitar-like synth carries a propulsive and ominous melody. Retrograth drips shadow from his dramatic voice as the drums explode in a groovy beat. Tapping percussion moves and the weaving, string-like synth winds up the tension as Retrograth’s weighty vocals contribute gripping emotion.

The low end is undeniably catchy as diaphanous sounds float like spider webs. The low end gyrates as elevated notes cry out and the slicing electric guitar growls with compelling weight. I enjoy the power and lurking emotion in the song. The vocals slide with cold strength as the drums continue to pulse. Laser-like sounds zip past as the string-like synth twists in a spectral minor key melody. The drums continue to drive hard along with the icy feeling in Retrograth's voice.

Now a flatly pulsing synth moves with the crisp snare drum as tightly wriggling sounds skip past. The guitar snarls with threat as the heaviness below shoves it forward and the song ends.

The narrator says that the spectacle right in front of us demands our full attention as we are "spellbound by a quick response." He points out that backstage, everything is obscured.

Our storyteller reminds us that "fool's gold, brass shimmer" lures our gaze with a fake glow while we are blinded by "luminance" from real life. He adds that "beyond the glittering lights" are the luminosities that guide us through real life.

Now the narrator points out that "the theater in front of your face craves concentration" as one is misled by "visual cues" from real life, which are "masked and interlaced."

A hissing sound fills the background with rushing air to open "Hollow Men." Rapidly flicking digital notes trip through the music with intense, echoing pulsations as the massive drums rebound. Electric bass entangles as the piercingly radiant synth cascades in fierce lines. Retrograth’s voice is triumphant as it carries the powerfully impactful vocals.

The drums continue to thud with raging weight as the full, emotive vocals cry out. The drums are a steady force as a synth pours out brilliance and the entangling bass adds density. Drums keep bursting as Retrograth captures the feelings of the lyrics in his lush voice. The guitar moves in tremulous lines as the wildly shining synth trumpets.

Drums continue to move as the widely dancing guitar is joined by angular noises that slice into the music. The electric bass adds more motion as the vocals exude expression and the brassy synth carries the thundering main melody before the track ends.

Our storyteller talks about digging deeply for oneself "in the promised land, among the grabbing hands" and "in between the scarcity and the green." He says you'll turn your friends to enemies for a plot of land as you walk the river downstream looking "for chunks of glitter in the sand."

The narrator speaks of hollow men who "gather wealth" at the expense of decency and need while they are "at the new frontier, in the golden years." One look and their gold pan will tell them they have "an empty soul (and) two empty hands."

"Sweat and Gold" begins as a steadily flaring, intensely bright synth moves with smoothly bursting drums and deeply undulating bass. The bass has a muscular weight as the vibrating synth cries out with strength. Chords pour light as a wandering, shadowy synth carries a melody that feels victorious yet threatening.

Bending sounds rise as the bass thunders and Retrograth’s uniquely gripping vocals carry the melody, mixing triumph and drama. Huge drums continue to pulse as the chorus flies out with energizing liveliness and colossal bass pulsates with disembodied danger.

The narrator talks about an athlete's great ambitions "to master a game" with an expectation of fame and glory. He speaks of "long endurance, no time for regrets"—just memories of hard work and sweating.

Our storyteller says that when you "run at the top of the world, for the sweet taste of gold, the taste of triumph," and when you climb for your life, it's "for the sweat and gold, the sweat of winning."

A rushing mechanical sound sweeps to open "The Crown." A steadily droning, string-like sound is pierced by fragile chimes and hard-hitting drums. A sitar-like synth is joined by string-like notes that exude radiance and warmth while the low end heaves. The guitar entangles with effulgent light while Retrograth’s resonating voice calls out with a melody full of deliberation and power.

Sitar-like notes are sliced by a gleaming synth that suffuses the music with metallic light. Retrograth’s yearning, directly eloquent vocals drift as the chimes sparkle. The driving beat continues to pulse while the bass surges. The string-like synth carries an orchestral melody, noble and warm, above the weight below it. The depth and expression in Retrograth’s vocals capture the mixture of defiance and gentleness within his words.

Bass towers as the colossal drums rebound and the strings flicker. The drums continue to explode as the intertwining guitar fills the music with brightness and twisting sounds shift. The drums continue to pulse as the steady string flash goes on. As the song comes to an end, the drums become crushing and the strings flow with fierce luminosity before the song fades out.

Our storyteller talks about an ancient tradition which is “the Dark Ages in a glance.” He adds, “The segregation and deception” put the audience in a trance. He adds that it enhances “the persona, improving the morale” as a monarch dons “the orb, the cross, the golden scepter” and puts on the crown. He speaks of endless processions “to hide inherited defects (and) illustrious costumes and creations to lift the grandiose effect.”

Conclusion

Sparks and Shimmer is a mind expanding and emotional exploration of all of the various meanings of gold and what it represents to humanity along with the ways in which it distorts and changes our interactions with one another. I enjoy the way in which this album is a pleasant listening experience as well as a thought-provoking one.

A Portrait: The Music & Art of Shae Green

Review by Karl Magi

Overall Album Impressions

A Portrait: The Music & Art of Shae Green is a deeply moving tribute to a truly talented and unique human being. In reviewing this album, I felt my heart touched and moved by both the talent of this person who died before their time and the way in which he affected other people around him. Not only is the music a fitting way to honor such a first-rate lyricist and singer, but it is clear that he made a massive impact on the lives of many and will leave a great gap behind him. This review is a way to pay my own tribute to the musical beauty and love which this album exudes.

The songs which feature the lyrics written by Shae Green are a fitting way to showcase his ability with words. There's an immediacy and emotional depth to his lyrics that took hold of me right away and drew me close. He was able to convey intense feeling clearly and deeply. The way in which the guest artists who interpret his lyrics transmit those feelings is superb and does real honor to what he created.

Another aspect of A Portrait which I found affecting and compelling are the original lyrics written by artists in tribute to Shae Green. They crafted words that reached out to connect to the emotions of those who had been left bereft by this incredible person’s passing while also expressing their own emotional states and exploring issues with which they’re struggling. The way in which they bared their souls gave me a great deal of respect and appreciation.

An enormous amount of love and care was lavished on producing the tunes which were written by Shae Green and his band members. The energy of the music writing is another clear indication of how skillful Shae Green was with music and the way in which this album is able to bring his ideas to life is visceral. The sharpness and clarity of the recording and production creates music that is luscious and even more engaging because of the quality of the sound.

I also want to comment on the final track of A Portrait. The way in which it combines a wonderfully ambient and tender musical background with all of the recollections of this singular and singularly wonderful human being was truly emotional for me. Although I had never known or heard about Shae Green before, the way in which his family and friends paid tribute to him brought tears to my eyes and made me wish I had a chance to know him.

Musical Tracks Analyzed

"Shenandoah" begins with quickly tumbling synth flashing and intertwining. The drums kick rapidly and the sweeping synth line carries a dreamy melody as the bass reverberates. The sharp low end propels the music as the lambent lead synth sings with melancholy passion. Rob Rowe’s voice trembles with feeling, carrying a melody deep with need and passion. A glistening synth cries out with floating smoothness as metallic notes flash.

The chorus is full of scintillating energy while bouncing, gleaming notes dance together. The drums and bass lend an undulating quality and a synth radiates springy light as Rob Rowe’s emotive voice carries the yearning chorus while chiming notes fill the track with lush luminosity. I am touched by the way Rob Rowe captures the emotion exuded by the lyrics. The song's irrepressible dynamism draws me further in as the aching vocals carry their haunting melody. Diamond-bright, flickering notes intertwine as the unstoppable low end punches forward.

The narrator speaks of "love in disguise," adding that the song's subject doesn't realize what's happening because it's a dream come true. He adds, "I am the king and you're the prince, you need someone to love." He asks if it’s making sense that the things the other person thought were all wrong, adding, "That's why I'm here to write this song."

Now the storyteller says that Shenandoah is where the song's subject ought to be, adding, "Don't ponder here, let your heart run free." He says that "the element of love" has no disguise, so "just look deep down in those dark brown eyes."

Our narrator says that the song's subject will "hold her tight and you'll hold her near" as they can feel her love while she wipes their tears away. He says, "Give her your love and share your dreams" because she'll be there when no one else is around. He adds that "you'll feel the love that has grown" and again reminds the other person to give her their love and share their dreams.

"I will love you forever and with all of my heart" is what the storyteller pledges to the song's subject. He tells them that nothing will ever tear them apart and continues, "I know you too well, I can read you like a book." He asks them to turn around and take a look back at him. He concludes, "When you pray at night and you ask for the key, thank the Lord for your memories."

Quickly ramping up, sound rushes along with the swelling, gleaming synth that carries a rapidly pulsing and dynamic melodic line to start “My Portrait.” The drums and bass are powerful as the softly sliding notes plane in a meditative, dreamy melody while Andrea Powell's expressive vocals move with affectionate gentleness.

The low end pulses strongly as the string-like synth intertwines and caresses the listener’s ears with calming lightness. Eric C. and Andrea Powell's voices mingle into one harmonic, luscious whole as the chorus rises. A sharply glimmering synth sparkles with trembling light as the two singers harmonize with richness and depth.

The percussive low end propels the music as the two singers convey all of the deep need in the lyrics. The strings intermingle with the driving bass and punching drums, flowing with smoothness. The way in which the singers carry the emotion within the lyrics is compelling and enjoyable for me.

The storyteller says that when she's alone in her room, she sits and thinks about the song's subject and the "good times we had, the bad times we shared," along with how much she loved the other person and how much she cared.

Our narrator says that there are "so many nights that I've cried, trying to hold back the tears that I hide." She adds that when she's sad and blue, she takes out her portrait of the song's subject to look at.

Now the storyteller says that she misses the song's subject's face and touch, adding, "I miss the love 'cause you gave so much." She can hear the other person's voice in her head "echoing all around." She says that she's got no choice now because they've gone away, so all she has left is her memory of them.

The narrator concludes that she knows she'll live and pull through "as long as I have my portrait of you."

"Sympathy (Remember When)" commences as a reverberating, bell-like synth trembles while a ticking sound moves in the distance. There's a swirling, soothing background as the brightly glittering notes flash above the resonant bass. Crystal Rome's levitating voice breathes with delicate, tender feeling as it carries the diaphanous melody.

Bass thunders as the vocals drift like soft clouds. The bursting drums guide the music as Crystal Rome captures the nostalgia and wishful thinking in her lyrics while the drums continue to throb. I am charmed by the gentle emotion of the vocals as the soothing melody sails out.

There's a feeling of beautiful, melancholy memory which inhabits this music. The drums are unstoppable as the chorus rises with hopeful encouragement and the glimmering synth sparkles in the distance. Lambent notes intertwine as Crystal Rome’s wordless vocals lightly touch my ears.

Trumpeting synth flashes with energizing light while the metallic notes riffle and saxophone cries with passion and aching memory. Drums continue to bounce as Crystal Rome carries the melody on her breathy, engaging voice while the drumbeat pulsates. T. Mancuso’s sax adds a luscious sensitivity as the chorus is accented by a crystalline glow. The vocals slip past with soothing ease as the chanted chorus climbs.

The low end guides the music as the drums pulsate while the sax emotes deeply and diamantine synth flickers before the track ends.

Our narrator points out that "seasons change, time goes on" but the memories don't fade; they continue to live on. She points out that each day is the same and asks why she and the song's subject can't go back to the memories they shared of "runnin’ young and free." She doesn't want to quit and time stands still "until that day I see you" as she asks the other person to "remember when."

The storyteller looks toward the horizon of the song's subject to see "the colors of the sun," while as the shadows fade, she sees the other person's face. She says that she's blinded by their love and "heaven is shining down from above." Their brightness erases fear and all of the years to reveal "a future full of love."

Our narrator speaks of memories taking over in a "digital world, a world of wonder" that reminds her of a poster over her bed and "the records playing in my head." She asks, "Here and now below the clouds, would we do it all the same?" and wonders if there were "promises, or anything you’d change." She refers to "the beauty of rivers of love" that flow through her again as she hears the other person say each day, "remember when."

The storyteller concludes by saying, "Those are the days, they never fade. Remember when they live on and on."

Bells ring out into openness as a chanted voice echoes before "Resolute" begins. The drums throb as mechanical sounds shift in the distance and sharp-edged, angular synths vibrate through the music. The percussion is powerfully shaping as the synth pulse undulates in shadowy lines, creating dark energy.

A smoother, brighter synth carries an encouraging melody up above the thundering low end. Dave Pataconi’s deep and distinctive vocals carry hope leavened by sadness. The drums throb hard as Dave Pataconi’s beautifully ghostly voice drifts as the uplifting melody slips past. The drums continue to drive as a shining synth cries out with the melancholy-tinged, touching melody.

Fragile notes skip as the hugely pulsing drums leap again as the vocals entwine around my ears with emotive strength. Rippling notes flash as Dave Pataconi takes hold of the lyrics and delivers them with deep commitment. A gliding synth slips with tenderness as the chorus echoes. The drums continue to rebound as the lithe synth sails out. As sweeping sounds shift along with heavy bass, the song comes to an end.

The storyteller begins by saying that you're all alone, or at least you think you are. He adds that "it's not like the movies in Paradise." The narrator tells the song's subject that they're stronger than they know, so they can "fight back and gain control."

Our narrator says that the subject moves him by "being the strong tree in the deserts that you dwell." He adds that the other person is simply amazing and "constantly changing into a better version of yourself." He emphasizes that they are stronger than they think they are and that "you've got the power to withstand."

The storyteller repeats that the other person is stronger than they realize and can fight back and gain control. He adds, "pull yourself out of the hole, lost the fight but gained your soul." He continues, "ashes to ashes, dust to dust, look toward the light and who you trust."

The narrator concludes by saying, "no one can tell you where to go, now that you've gained back your control."

"Sympathy (Ode to 1988 Instrumental)" begins with the bell-like keyboard carrying the gently drifting melody as chimes shimmer. The ringing notes cry out with compelling emotion, slipping delicately. A vocal synth adds operatic tenderness as the gruff bass pulsates while swelling chords fill the background with luminosity.

The drums are active, varied and smoothly guiding as the chords slide mistily. The drum pulse moves with the dense bass to create more motion, increasing in speed and strength. A steadily oscillating synth lifts the music with increased lambency as the drum beat bursts. The background synth adds an orchestral quality as trumpeting notes gleam with aspiring liveliness. The drums dance as flickering notes are cut by laser-like sounds while the entire track exudes peaceful sensations.

An operatic vocal synth slips through the music with intense feeling, drawing me inward. The crystalline lead synth carries the melodic pattern as the hard edge to the low end continues to burst. The pulse is deep and smooth as the track evolves. The main melody climbs now, rising up to the heavens with dreamy positivity, like a foggy day pierced by sunlight before the track ends.

Conclusion

A Portrait, for me, captures the essence of a deeply skillful and talented individual who also seems to have been a deep human being who made a huge impact on the lives of everyone with whom he interacted. this tribute moved me and made me feel as if I'd missed out on knowing this person, despite never having met him in my life.