HeartBeatHero - Rise to the Stars

Review by Karl Magi

Overall Album Impressions

HeartBeatHero’s Rise to the Stars carries listeners on a diverse synth journey across fascinating soundscapes and a multiplicity of moods and atmospheres. I enjoy the way in which each track is quite individual, but the unifying themes of strong melodies, emotional depth and a masterful use of synth sounds link them all together.

One of the standout features for me on Rise to the Stars is the way in which it transports me through mood and emotion. Some tracks burst with exuberance and others ache with sorrow, while moments of explosive power mingle with quiet contemplation. The end result is a sonic journey that is exciting and engaging as it unfolds.

Another way in which Rise to the Stars draws me in is related to HeartBeatHero’s ability to write excellent melodies. For those of you who have read my work for a while, you know that I am a sucker for a well-composed melody. This album is brimming over with ear-catching, heart-grabbing melodies that are memorable and convey the mood of each track effectively.

I'm enamoured of the way in which HeartBeatHero is able to weave together all of Rise to the Stars’ different auditory elements to create an intricate tapestry. He skillfully takes the different textures, tones and timbres of the various synth sounds and carefully curates them to produce a layered, aurally intriguing musical experience that continues to move and please me.

I also want to observe that while I enjoy the way in which the artwork fits the album, it would be good to see the talents of a visual artist used rather than AI generated images.

My Favourite Tracks Analyzed

“Rise to the Stars” commences as broadly slicing synth rings out in a leaping pattern to create motion. The melodic pattern varies as luminous notes cut in while colossal bass and punchy drums slam in a driving heartbeat.

Angular sounds slash through the music and the drums rebound while brilliant notes cry out with dramatic majesty. Slowly floating, sharply shining synth arpeggios revolve while the drums flourish. The pumping percussive heartbeat reestablishes itself as medium-high, gleaming synth carries the victorious melody high above the hard-edged low end.

I enjoy the sensations of soaring triumph that permeate the melody as it unfolds. Glistening, flashing arpeggios continue to undulate as string-like synth intertwines with intense illumination. Gigantic drums and bass batter again, adding dynamic energy as reverent notes glow in the background and the track slowly fades to silence.

Cosmic sounds zap as slowly throbbing bass comes in to open "When I was just a kid." As the bass continues to throb, softly swirly pastel sounds move along with Daniel Barton's dynamic voice. He delivers the lyrics as delicate notes spread outward. Now a brilliant synth leaps with optimism above the vocals as they echo with joyful, uplifting emotion.

Daniel Barton's voice is warm and delivers a hit of nostalgia with a sweet touch that I enjoy. Deep emotion fills the vocals as the positive melodic energy seeps through the music above the throbbing low end. Gem-like notes softly tremble while Daniel Barton’s voice swells with happy feelings. As the different vocal layers intermingle, a blazing synth jumps as the words capture memory and youthful freedom. The glistening notes shimmer until the track ends.

The narrator talks about the excitement he felt as a child, hitting a home run or kicking a football. He was always ready to give it his all, saying, “I gave it my soul.” He recalls everyone gathering around the radio as the “awesome music” brought them together.

Our storyteller describes diving into the pool, slipping and sliding. He remembers riding his BMX bike with his "hat pulled back," riding into the sunset with "the wind in my face, bobbing my head to the sound of the bass."

To conclude, the narrator shares how he loves thinking about all the things that happened when he was just a kid. He remembers not having responsibilities and being free to live his life.

“God of Fire” breathes to life as a choral synth creates dark drama and trumpeting notes flash with burning light. The choir creates a timeless feeling as the blaring, brassy synth is joined by a churning guitar that thunders with raging muscle. The melody generates imagery of terrifying power before mellow notes hover and arpeggiate.

The guitar cuts again, radiance pouring out as the drums burst in short explosions. Snarling guitar notes crash with threatening, rapid force and the low end pounds with unstoppable energy. The track is full of a resonant xylophone now, trembling as peaceful sounds unfold.

Arpeggios spin again as the choir adds depth. I am compelled by the contrast and auditory richness of this track. Bright synth calls out with a towering melody that exudes a sense of triumphal energy before the track ends.

Threatening bass trembles as terrifying exhalations move to start "Friday the 13th." Now the drums crash with massive force and the threatening bass batters with a sense of impending doom. Tensely wound, oscillating synth adds to the feelings of creeping danger that permeate the music.

As sweeping sound rushes and the drums rebound, the bass tangles to add to the urgency of the track. As the nervous arpeggios undulate, a delicious shiver travels down my spine. Twisted sounds howl into the music with tortured terror, feeling worried as the feverish synth writhes in spectral motion and the shuddering bass rumbles.

Slowly bending notes melt through the music with ectoplasmic sensations while the tightly twirling synth shifts. Grating notes wriggle with uncomfortable feelings as a distant synth knots through the music in unsettling lines. The brightly gnarled synth moves with contorted sensations before the track falls silent on unsettling bass.

“Neon Nitro” starts off as elevated, glittering synth trickles out into echoing space as bass touches the other sounds. Jagged synth cuts in sharp lines as colossal bass sweeps with shadowed import. A beaming synth rings out in an elegiac melody as the drums and bass form a slamming, ferociously moving beat below.

Hollow sounding arpeggios spin in continual motion above the propulsive low end. Raised, flashing sounds leap outwards as the drums fade and shadowy voices chant while the bass flows. Rough-edged synth calls out in bursts as gigantic bass slices in growling lines.

The melody glistens and yearns as it glides through the track. Drums and bass pound with forceful speed and entangling arpeggios twirl through the music with unstoppable dynamism. I can picture myself blurring past a landscape of neon lit buildings in a city from an alternate future as the track unfolds.

Bells ring, chimes sparkle and a quickly ticking hi-hat guides the music to open “The Main Theme.” A slightly twisting, ringing synth bends before triumphantly trumpeting notes cry out, full of majesty and colossal strength.

Military drums throb as the victorious synth rises, projecting ancient nobility and a sense of perseverance. A raised synth shines and rippling arpeggios cut with gruff edges while the bass undulates and the drums hit hard.

A vocal synth trembles with full-sounding notes as the low end continues to smoothly undulate. Raised, dancing notes flash and a glimmering, string-like synth calls out with a feeling of strength as the drums add military precision. Once again, the rapidly undulating, gliding low end shifts as the choral synth trembles. The drums cascade while the majestic melody calls out, lifting my heart with it.

“Cats Forever” begins as colossally heaving bass moves with the sound of cats meowing in the background. The bass is solid and dark as it throbs heavily and the cat sounds add a unique quality. Metallic, bright sounds tremble and rapid lines add tension to the deeply pounding low end.

A sweeping sound winds through and the drums rebound as medium-high, enigmatically swirling notes drift above the cat sounds. A bell rings and tumbling noises move with fragile chime in the distance. A broadly echoing synth dances in shimmering lines, full of acrobatic energy like the cats of the song's title.

The drums continue to punch as sharp notes slice with keen edges. All of the cats mew n the distance as the deeply vibrating, actively shifting synth is cut by a steady high pulse.

Strings flow with elegant motion and the low end launches in a dynamically, angularly leaping line as the bass rises and the drums hit hard with clapping percussion. Depth fills the background as ticking drums move along with sweeping, twirling notes and the track ends.

Rapidly cascading, sharp synth falls through the music to kick off “Not Forgotten.” Lambent notes form a hypnotic pulse, as they tumble over and over. Now the rebounding kick drum throbs as the flashing notes continue to hypnotically pulsate. The drum pounds hard to create a massive heartbeat while the repeating notes entrance me.

The notes are joined by fat bass that thuds with muscled weight, further driving the music. As the slicing notes interlock, feelings of mechanical processes fill my mind. The melody that comes in on a trembling synth is affectionate and full of hopeful emotion, filling me with warming sensations.

As the melodic pattern repeats, the trance-inducing low end continues to pulsate. Luscious chords fill the distance as the shining notes trip in repetitive motion. The low end continues to chug forward with powerful motion as the enfolding chords float.

A computerized-sounding synth dances in uplifting motion as the thundering low end continues to drive. The way in which all of these different layers intermingle is ear-pleasing and compelling for me.

Now a clean snare drum adds a ticking feeling as the dense low end continues to push. The repeating pattern tumbles with meditative brightness. As the track drives toward the end, the celebratory melody sings out again above the thudding low end.

Conclusion

Rise To The Stars is a thoroughly pleasing listening experience. I enjoy the wide variety of emotional states and powerfully drawn imagery which fills the music and showcases HeartBeatHero’s ability to compose and create first-rate synth-based music.

Hill Valley Hero - Aura

Review by Karl Magi

Overall Album Impressions

Hill Valley Hero’s Aura takes listeners on a thrilling, enchanting fantasy journey. As the soundtrack to an ‘80s fantasy movie which never existed, Hill Valley Hero has created a work that is intensely enjoyable and touching. I grew up on movies like this and I have to admit that the nostalgia factor plays a part in my enjoyment of this music—but it's not only that. Hill Valley Hero composes wonderful melodies, skillfully weaves synths together and draws in the talents of first-rate instrumentalists, deepening the emotional impact on the level of musical quality. The end result is an auditory exploration of a magical realm in the company of a master storyteller.

I have to commend Hill Valley Hero on the concept and vision for Aura. The way in which he unfolds the cinematic tale he's telling is intensely engaging. I feel myself drawn to the characters and the world he conjures through music. I can picture the heart-stopping vistas and great beauty of the world he creates, along with the darkness, danger and ultimate triumph of the main character against forces of evil seeking to destroy that magical place.

Another strong component in Aura’s success is the melodic writing which Hill Valley Hero has done for the album. His melodies are instantly memorable and gripping as they skillfully convey the emotions and images he brings to life. Each melody reaches out and pulls me deeper into the journey upon which I’m being taken. The cinematic quality of the melodies also adds to the overall effect of watching a classic fantasy film, with all of its wonder and adventure.

On top of the melodic beauty, the way in which Hill Valley Hero intelligently chooses and creatively combines his synth sounds results in layered and ear-catching music. His sonic choices add to the visualization created by Aura’s different melodic and atmospheric components. He has a knack for interweaving many tones and textures within the synths in order to produce a desired effect or feeling. Once again, the musical elements are in service of storytelling and the end result is captivating.

I also want to mention the other artists with whom Hill Valley Hero works on Aura. Manuel Trabucco and Juani each bring their own skillful performances to bear on the overall vision of the album. Manuel Trabucco’s sax playing is heartfelt and powerful, filling me with emotion and nostalgia. Juani’s guitar playing is confident, skillful and full of dynamism as it contributes to the thrilling feelings and sense of adventure which permeates the album. I also want to give a shout-out to Luis M. Deltell for his mixing and mastering, which creates clarity and space for the music to unfold.

My Favourite Tracks Analyzed

“Titles” starts as rain falls and heavily sweeping bass moves with a reverberant synth, which calls out with hallowed emotion, adding a sense of nobility as it shines. A feeling of a quest waiting to begin hangs over the music; a chime echoes as the sound of the ocean washing and seagulls crying fades.

Wind rushes and soothing sounds move in gentle currents as “The Scourge” begins. Drums pulse like a heartbeat as a blazing synth creates a triumphant feeling. A slowly revolving arpeggio adds a sense of impending action, while dark chords sweep and a bell-like synth rings out. The melody it carries belongs to a beautiful fantasy world.

The dazzling notes create intensity as the melody unwinds with a timeless feeling and broad arpeggios twirl. A fragile, violin-like synth carries a pained and heartstring-tugging melody that I enjoy, before martial snare drums create a sense of nearing battle just as the music fades.

“A Journey Begins” starts as colossal drums pound heavily and portentous sounds shift. A jagged synth saws into the music as the bass begins to throb weightily. Tension grows as the rough-edged synth shivers and a floating note hovers above the track.

The drums and bass lock into an insistent pulse as a fearful arpeggio spins, ramping up the sensation of an approaching enemy. Intensity pours from the music, drawing me into the story’s urgency. A bell rings and the strings surge with a melody that is both victorious and full of excitement.

Ringing arpeggios shine as the open-voiced synth descends with a melody speaking of a world full of magic and secrets. I enjoy the enigmatic feeling it generates. A whistle-like synth carries a melody inflected with medieval and folk music influences, while the strings wind up the tension. As the track fades, fluting notes hover calmly and the sound of rain falling returns to fill the music.

A sharp-edged synth entangles and ripples as “Aura's Theme” kicks off. It continues to twirl as a tender melody emerges while wind sweeps and the gigantic drums explode forward. The main melody is ethereal and soothing, carrying a feeling of hope and dreaming within it.

There’s a sense of Aura as a character with youthful dreams and boundless possibility. The fluting synth drifts with the warming, uplifting melody as the drums continue to pulsate. Metallic sounds play as the main melody slips by with graceful joy, reaching for the sky.

As the melody unfolds, I am transported into the mind of the character, feeling her aspirations for the future. My heart is touched as Juani's guitar erupts along with a sleek synth and rippling, string-like notes that entangle. The synth creates dynamic positivity as the vocal notes feel gossamer and light.

A darker element fills the music while the keyboard sings with epic verve. The flute calls out again, evoking the opening vistas which the character experiences, creating imagery of mountains towering above her. Juani's guitar howls with passion and celebratory liveliness as it unfolds intricate lines swell while the flute sings us on to the end of the song.

“Escape the Maze” commences as intensely seething synth tumbles and bass growls with shuddering power. The drums press on now as the quickly spinning synth trips and ghostly sounds float. The fiercely flaring synth ignites in rapid pulses while the drums explode beneath. Urgency and tension fill the radiant synth as it continually slides back and forth.

As the majestic chords rise, thunderous notes erupt with looming strength. The impression of continually progressing through confusing twists and turns fills the music, along with a certainty that escape will be achieved. Now Manuel Trabucco's sax flies into the music with pure passion and jazzy joy, the solo full of lively drama and nostalgia.

Chimes dance as the sax unfurls in leaping lines. The synth rapidly cascades and descends, illuminating notes spilling through the music as the pounding percussion pushes on. The hypnotically oscillating synth continues to float through the music in animated lines as laser-like sounds pierce the distance. Hollow notes move with elegant motion as the sax cries out again, explosive and reedy, before the track closes.

A heavy mechanical sound shifts and threatening noises vibrate as “Robot Skeleton Shotgun Samurai” opens. The crushing sound of heavy machinery is joined by a rapidly charging drum beat and distorted bell-like sounds that ring in angular motion.

A brassy synth carries a melody that feels battle-ready as slicing notes cut through and the chimes add tension. A vast synth planes and the melody carries imagery of fierce battle as rounded synth twangs and continually twirling arpeggios oscillate. The bass tumbles again and the drums hammer as the lead synth surges and a steadily repeating pattern adds to the feeling of struggle.

The main melody calls out with shining nobility, filling me with excitement and wild joy as it unfolds. The ringing notes flicker past again and the unrelenting low end pounds with danger before the track ends.

“Enchantment” comes alive as a beaming string instrument carries a melody full of timeless peace and a feeling of otherworldly calm. As it sings out, images of fantastical landscapes and architecture that defies belief fill my mind.

The full-toned synth reminds me of a woodwind instrument with its rich tones as the glimmering strings carry the melody, my mind journeying across the ancient landscape with it. As the rounder notes fly, the strings trickle on.

Now an elevated, oboe-like synth calls out with a melody full of tranquility and magical sensations. The bass collides heavily as the melody climbs above it, radiating serenity before the track ends.

A strong wind whips and descending notes trickle while solid bass cuts in to begin “Blade of the Windmaster”. The lead synth floats calmly before the drums tick solidly and the melody skips past with a lithe motion.

The drums rebound densely and the fluting lead synth calls out with a melodic line that speaks of elegance and composure. Arpeggios ripple steadily in the distance as the drums burst and the luminous synth shivers.

There’s a momentary twist before the main melody luminesces again, drawing a wise, skilled portrait of the song’s character. The electric guitar cries out, ardent and fiery, twining through the music with an arching dynamism that evokes strength and nobility before the track finishes.

“You Give Us Hope” commences with soft rainfall and natural sounds that are joined by a trembling synth tumbling in slowly journeying lines. A hypnotic quality fills the tones as they descend and a distorted, thudding kick drum shifts beneath.

The bass is dense as it rebounds and the continually rippling notes fade. The massive drums collide with an explosive beat as an exhaling sound moves through the music. The incredible weight adds strength as the taut synth carries a warming, reassuring melody.

Xylophone-like notes add caressing light as the hopeful melody moves. Gigantic drums and growling bass pulse as the radiant synth descends in extended chords, filling the music with luscious and encouraging notes as strings shine in the distance. As the track ends, the sense of progress is undeniable.

Towering drums explode and guitar flares as the blinding synth rises to kick off “Training Montage.” The guitar slices in sharp lines as the scintillating synth carries the thrilling, blood-pumping melody. Juani's guitar unwinds with howling dynamism as the thundering low end propels the track. Fiercely illuminating synth is joined by twinkling chimes as an eagle cries. A jagged guitar lacerates the music, generating sensations of a combative struggle.

The guitar spins out as Manuel Trabucco's sax takes over, spilling out with wild expression and exciting life. Underneath it all, the drums surge and flaring notes bring their own liveliness. The punchy low end jams on while the guitar cries out with feral feelings as it drifts by. All the musical elements come together, creating muscled motion before the track stops.

“Hold Me Close” begins with wind chimes and a crackling fire as slowly floating notes play out above the gruff low end. The lead synth is tremulous and carries an affectionate, soothing melody above the luscious bass. Leaping notes transmit the melody’s emotional depth and tenderness, touching my heart as they do so. Warmth suffuses the synth, bathing the music in sunset orange. Shining notes flow past, gentle and dreamy, as soft breaths exhale.

A flute adds fragility as Manuel Trabucco's sax soulfully captures love with a full-sounding richness that only increases the caring and devotion within the melody. Radiant synth trickles, chimes shine and the sax reaches deep to fill the listener with overwhelming love.

Military drums erupt and brass rumbles with foreboding while hollow percussion trembles to start “Gear Up.” The drums throb with dominant weight while a churning bassline shifts below steadily gliding notes. The synth pulse creates drama while the threatening brass rumbles and climbs with diamond-lit brightness and triumphant muscle. The drums are a warrior’s heartbeat as the scintillating synth flashes.

Images of banners snapping in the breeze and weapons being honed to a keen edge fill my mind as the low end thunders. Trumpeting notes speak of preparing to fight for a righteous cause against a dire enemy. The pulsating low end drives forward while a blinding synth carries the nobly successful melody. The drums pulse again with indomitable strength while a piercing synth rings out with undeniable energy to end the piece.

“The Battle and Beyond” opens as a soft wind flows past and birds call out. A sense of anticipation fills the music as a bell rings. Distantly throbbing drums add looming danger as the angular synth carries a tightly wound melodic line and a flute calls out with a melody that creates imagery of an impending battle and all that it entails. The melody speaks of forbidding castle walls and armor glinting in the sun while the sweeping percussion becomes a monumental beat slashed with snarling guitar.

The glistening synth cries out with defiant readiness. I find my heart throbbing in time to the beat, feeling the blood pump in my veins as Juani's guitar flashes with unstoppable power. A thrill runs through me as the instruments pour radiance above the low end. Feelings of danger and potential triumph shoot through the music.

Now a tensely trickling synth moves with gleaming strings while a sharp-edged series of sonic bursts on guitar and trumpet leap. A guitar solo howls above the track, filled with all of the resolve of a true warrior, while the low end rumbles and the drums beat. The guitar unwinds in free-flowing lines that intricately twist and turn while an elevated flute sings again. Broadly expansive synth glows as the brassy notes call and the track comes to an end on dark bass.

Lambent notes slowly float above a mournful background to start “I Am the Storm Rider.” Smooth, brassy notes with an orchestral feeling move with a softly shadowed bass and hollow percussion. A horn-like synth carries an elegantly flowing melody above the continually throbbing bass as diamond sounds flicker. A rough-edged synth carries the melody, which is full of pure sensation and a feeling of growing hope.

As the bass continually pulsates, a broadly shifting synth calls out again, filling me with a sense of single-minded strength. The drums continue to throb with martial precision and lustrous notes illuminate the distance. A gruff melodic pattern continues to rise and as the drums throb in a battle-ready beat, the horn-like synth carries a dreamy melody tinged with an aching feeling.

The propulsive but slow-moving beat proceeds majestically. The main melody yearns and reaches, tinged with unstoppable strength, while Juani's guitar slices with honourable emotion. The track grows to a crescendo before silence falls with the gleaming guitar.

“Epilogue / End Title” opens as an orchestra sweeps with power and intensely felt emotion, metallic brass crying out in elegant but forceful motion.As the trumpet rings out, actively explosive drums move in varied lines as Juani's guitar spins out a melody speaking of endings and victory. As the evocative chords gleam, rebounding drums support the refulgent melody that slides into the music. The horn section skirls and rises with serene triumph as the brass is supported by the strings.

A feeling of completion fills me, bringing to mind the sensation one feels at the conclusion of a great adventure film. The piano trickles with a delicate and affectionate melody as the guitar adds soaring, uplifting sensations. Calm descends as the battle ends and our main characters go back off into their lives, wiser and stronger for what they’ve gone through.

My heart swells with the growing music while the colossal drums drive. The melody is tender, sweet and full of heart as it closes out the wonderful journey on which we've all been in the company of the artist. I am left smiling and fulfilled as the strings fade away.

Conclusion

Aura transports me to a world of dreams and on a quest to save that enchanted place from an evil blight seeking to destroy it. Hill Valley Hero fully brings me into his world and musically elucidates the adventures of the main character within it. This is music which compels me to continue listening and painting pictures in my mind.

Midsummer Ex - Fake It Till You Make It

Review by Karl Magi

Overall Album Impressions

Midsummer Ex’s Fake It Till You Make It combines dynamic energy, emotional complexity and melodic joy as it unfolds. A surge of '80s sounds mingles with the artist’s songwriting abilities and intricately interwoven synth layers to produce an album that roams across broad territory and creates engaging, entertaining music.

One of the standout features of Fake It Till You Make It for me is the sheer liveliness it exudes. In between the well-chosen synths, active percussion and dance floor energy, the music is a hell of a lot of fun to listen to and complements the poppy feelings it radiates. I really enjoy the '80s sounds as they unfold here.

Another strong element of Fake It Till You Make It for me is Midsummer Ex’s songwriting. He moves from fairly light-hearted pieces to music that is much more deep and emotive, exploring more serious themes. Whatever mode he's in, Midsummer Ex is able to draw me in and fill me with sensation as his songs unfold. I'm enamored with the journey he takes me on throughout the album.

The way in which the various synth sounds are combined also creates lush depth. Each intertwining sound complements the others and as they come together, they create sonic beauty and interest. As the synths interweave, they carry the well-composed melodies that fill this album. Midsummer Ex has a knack for emotionally powerful, easily hummable melodic lines that I find intensely ear-pleasing.

My Favourite Songs Analyzed

“Hollywood Star” begins with the sound of clicking cameras before cascading synth brings a melancholy quality and shining notes gleam. The sound of a radio tuning jumps into a hard-driving low-end pulse with drums and bass locked into propulsive motion.

A circling arpeggio glistens as Midsummer Ex’s delicate, heartfelt vocals glide with the dreamy melody and the low end pushes forward. The singer captures the strange desire in the vocals above the broken low-end pulse. Broadly moving drums move with the resonant vocals, carrying the passion within the words.

The drums are huge and add strength as gliding notes unfurl with indigo light. They move in uneven lines as the vocals slip past continuing to press on with dynamic bass as Midsummer Ex draws me in with his deeply felt performance. The vocal melody is fragile and warm, contrasting with the unsettling feeling in the words.

Drums continue to explode as swirling notes intermingle and clapping percussion adds shape. As the chorus reaches out, Midsummer Ex's enfolding voice carries the mournful and lightly caressing melody. Glowing notes wash through the music as the colossal bass intermingles. As the song comes to an end, the mixture of shadow and twisted affection fades into silence.

The narrator talks about watching the object of his obsession wake up and drink tea, taking their morning pills as he adds, "Life is hard in Beverly Hills." The nature of his dark attraction to the song's subject is clear as he says, "I'm watching you into the night time. When you drive, I follow your car," adding that he always knows where they are. The narrative takes an even darker turn as the narrator says, "One day you'll disappear, no more pain and no more fear, lost in the final frontier."

Our storyteller describes feeling as if he's been "touched by your sunshine," while calling the object of his obsession his "wonder love." He adds that making people believe in the song's subject is a "state of art," pointing out that the other person is his Hollywood star. He encourages them to "fake it till you make it" and take their evening pills, which is "the only way to get your thrills.” He talks about the song's subject "swinging from the chandelier, waiting for the final tear,” as they lose another year.

As the song concludes, the narrator describes the song's subject standing on the shoreline, "so cold in the dark." Chillingly, after calling them his wonder love again, he says, "They will never find you, the one final spark," as he declares that the other person was a Hollywood star "born to fall apart."

A distantly flashing synth cascades in twirling motion as a digitally crying melodic pattern moves above seething bass as “Be Here Now (jacket. Remix)” opens. A suspenseful feeling fills the synth as Midsummer Ex’s softly drifting vocals carry a soothing melody above a punchy kick drum.

Mournful emotion fills the vocals, transmitting the feeling of the lyrics with clarity and sensitivity. A glistening synth floats with uplifting joy as the drums add power and Midsummer Ex grabs hold of the song's meaning and sends it home.

The drums are colossal as a brilliant synth irradiates the music with luminosity. Distantly chiming notes float as Midsummer Ex cries out again, mingling emotion with his fresh voice. A windy sweep joins hard-hitting drums as brightness suffuses the music.

The chorus flies out again, adding a positive element while glimmering notes intertwine. The drums rebound in uneven motion as sparkling notes spin and the bass rumbles. The vocalist takes me along with him as he expresses himself. Crystalline notes in the distance join rising sonic clouds as the drums drive. Chimes shimmer and trumpeting notes flare before the song comes to an end.

Our storyteller talks about a "dream that is shining on the horizon," as a mixtape he made for the song's subject keeps playing. He adds, "I can't see with the lights in my eyes, you been crying," as he observes that the other person keeps on driving like they always do.

The narrator speaks of riding into the "dusky moonlight" as they "speed up the holy midnight on our way." He talks about an ever-ending summer and says, "So what if we're pretending," because he'll always stay.

"There's no time, there's no end to these summer night feelings, my friend," is what the storyteller tells the song’s subject. He adds, "This is how—be here now." He speaks about the two of them in the car that the song’s subject won. As “Winds of Change” by Scorpions plays, there are "nostalgic echoes from a long time ago."

He concludes, "Don’t be nervous. Once you have been found, you’re never alone."

“Always 1985” begins as serene synth slips in with gossamer lightness. The drums start to throb with a powerful beat as the bass drives forward and Midsummer Ex’s rich voice carries the dreaming melody. The drums and bass press on as the smooth, touching vocals glide with deep sensations, while a bell-like synth gleams above.

The nostalgic wistfulness of the music draws me in and carries me along, full of wonderful emotion. The drums and bass continue to pulsate as the sparkling synth pours into the music. The vocals have a diaphanous delicacy that reaches out to carry the emotion of the lyrics.

The steady rhythm pushes forward while the soothing melody floats. An accent of warm notes rings out as Midsummer Ex transmits the sense of remembrance in the song. The beat has a classic '80s sound, fitting perfectly with the overall atmosphere. The melody then calls out on a glittering synth, radiating uplift and misty memory before the track ends with a guitar strum and the sound of a disconnected phone number.

The narrator speaks about the fear we have—that we all need to stand alone—as he tells the song’s subject that he needs them, that he won't make it on his own. He points out that “for all the years now, the grass has overgrown,” as they were always waiting for something to occur. He asks the other person to “come over here so I can see you again.”

Reminiscence fills our storyteller as he talks about the way they drove into the sunset, “a magic feeling we will never forget.” He points out that, for whatever it was worth, it was the best time of his life. He recalls them taking a chance and dancing “in the street lights” as they made their way out of their haunted town. He continues, “deep in my heart it's always 1985.”

The narrator talks about melodies that take him down memory lane as he concludes: “Now I know things will never be the same. Bittersweet, all good things must come to an end.”

Immense bass throbs and medium-high synth flashes out in embracing chords to open “Missing You”. Delicate notes sparkle and smoothly shining synth repeats a melodic pattern. Midsummer Ex’s uplifting voice carries an reassuring melody out over huge retro drums and undulating bass.

Midsummer Ex’s gentle voice is hopeful as a distantly glowingsynth trickles above propulsive drums and oscillating bass. Medium-high, glistening synth dances through and the upbeat vocal melody is carried on the vocals’ caressing warmth.

Heavy drums drive on and the gliding synth pattern repeats. The tremulous, tender vocal melody moves through as drums drop away and gigantic bass throbs to a conclusion along with a flitting arpeggio.

Our storyteller talks to the song’s subject about how the “mind can pull through” when they feel depressed and bereft. He reminds the other person to try and find their inner strength and then “you know it will be alright.” He adds that the other person’s got to “live and learn” to perceive it and a great deal of strength to heal. The need for healing is like oxygen “but it’s gonna be alright tonight.”

The narrator points out that the other person has to find the light and keep fighting. He says that everyone has to try and spread “a little love and sunshine” in life or we’ll see our dreams fade away. There’s a strong image of loss as the narrator says that “I'll be missing you like the shadows in the night” when the other person is gone.

The other person feels “abused and lonely” according to the storyteller. He adds that “we are losing you so slowly” and asks what the other person’s testimony will be. Our storyteller isn’t sure if they’ll both be okay.

He talks about sitting in Stockholm, browsing and looking at gravestones. He still feels that all will be well in the end. As the song ends, he talks about how “echoes travel very far” to the other person’s guitar being strummed. He concludes that, “I'll be listening when you’re gone.”

“Stuck on Repeat” starts with crackling static as a clock ticks and dramatic strings call out with sweeping emotion. The low end pulses with a dancy rhythm as Midsummer Ex’s softly emotive voice carries the aching melody with tremulous feeling. The low end continues to punch as the strings shine with luminosity, while distant trumpeting notes climb and add radiant life.

Gigantic drums now erupt with even more dynamism as the synth entangles with scintillating positivity. The depth of feeling Midsummer Ex captures pushes deep into my heart with affecting sensations, while the ticking clock and massive kick drum pulse underneath. The chorus shines with longing, as the low end is accented by gleaming synth notes frolicking above it. As the song ends, chimes ring out alongside the huge drums.

The narrator says that both he and the song's subject realize summer is almost at an end and that "we don't have the autumn, winter and spring." He urges them to understand that time is getting shorter and "we are longing in an endless dream."

Both characters face "the same good old pain, the same old refrain," as the storyteller points out that it's the same game all over again. He adds they are "stuck on repeat," because things never seem to reach an ending or feel complete.

The narrator and the song's subject both wanted freedom as they were "starting over again this midsummer eve." He speaks of the flowers beneath the subject's pillow, which will be frozen "as winter breaks and bends." He concludes with a poignant line: "Countless hours sleep, you little willow, all the frostbites will one day fade away."

Solid drums throb while glinting chimes carry a hurting melody to commence “I Never Saw It Coming”. The drums continue to pulse as the rich low end chords move with the twinkling higher notes. Midsummer Ex’s voice carries a contemplative ache as the drums throb and the chiming notes sparkle.

Midsummer Ex takes hold of my emotions with his warming voice and sense of longing. The vocals slip past as the gleaming notes flare with luminous tenderness. A sense of time passing quickly is reflected in the vocals as the drum and bass pulse continues. As the chimes flicker, the rebounding low end presses onward. Serene synth carries the melody, which wistfully wonders as the snare drums throb and the bass flows. As the song ends, Midsummer Ex's voice is fragile and lost.

The teller of this tale has been awake for a while, trapped in indecision. He has the world in his hands if he chooses to, but he is "lost in my mind." He talks about having "all this precious time" in which he knows what to do if he wants it. He explains that what he wants—and what he can't resist—is "holding on to that kiss."

Our narrator didn't see the relationship coming. It came without warning and he adds, "there's so much I want to say, but the time’s slipping away." He points out that the other person is never going to hear him calling. He's "been up all night" because he can't hide the romance they're in, as he asks, "is it still true?"

Now the storyteller says that they've been "in the dirt" and in the sky and he goes on to say, "if you want to be found, then I'll find you." He concludes that the other person will never see him falling or crawling.

“Digital World” starts as the kick drum thumps and a minor key synth washes with dramatic tension. The low end pumps with dancefloor-filling dynamism as synth whorls intermingle with indigo light. The low end has a smooth swing to it as Midsummer Ex embodies the disconnected sensations within the lyrics. The synth spills out radiance as it moves with the throbbing low end.

As the synth winds out with gentle smoothness, the low end continues to press on. The vocals are tinged with a sense of emptiness and regret for an unbridgeable gap. Trumpeting notes brim with sunlight as Midsummer Ex touches me with his vocal expression. Shining notes spill out and intermingle as the low end continues to throb. Arpeggios twirl as shimmering notes wash through the music, while the drums and bass continue to pulse. The low end has a groovy feeling as the string-like synth flashes out. As the song comes to an end, Midsummer Ex carries the floating melody to a close with his calming voice.

The narrator talks about feeling love so strong that it "carries on like a drum" in the night. He says you can dance until the morning light as the beat goes "on and on and on." He continues by saying, "you're a digital boy, oh so electronical," and "an analog girl, so lonely in the digital world."

Our storyteller says the situation is happening so rapidly and "the beat goes on when all is said and done,” but their connection was never made to last because it's "too cynical, not physical enough."

Smoothly flowing synth carries a melody full of regretful nostalgia to begin “One More Light.” As the touching melody moves, Midsummer Ex's painfully aware voice carries the caressing vocal line. The drums are powerful and deep as the aching vocals float past. The drums continue to drive as tranquil synth shines and Midsummer Ex pierces my heart with the depth of loss in his voice.

The low end bursts continuously as a glimmering synth traces through the music and the vocals are hurting while the interlocking synth spills out tenderness. The drum beat is shaping while the synth fills the music with an enfolding embrace. Now the bass trips heavily as ethereal notes float airily into the distance. The drums pound again and Midsummer Ex imbues his voice with reminiscence and remorse as the drums fall silent.

Our storyteller castigates himself as he says he should have stayed and wonders if there were signs you'd ignored. He asks, *“Can I help you not to hurt anymore?”* He recalls that together they “solved brilliance when the world was asleep,” and points out that there are things we’re able to have but we can’t keep.

The narrator reflects that if people say, *“Who cares if one more light goes out in the sky of a million stars,”* or ask who cares when a person's time runs out, *“if a moment is all we are,”* his simple answer is that *he* does.

When someone is gone from our lives, the storyteller says that “the reminders pull the floor from your feet,” and there's an empty chair in the kitchen that you no longer need. He goes on to say, *“You’re angry and you should be. It’s not fair.”* He reminds us that just because you can’t see something, it doesn’t mean it isn’t there.

“747” begins with a rather portentous-sounding, heavily throbbing bass and delicately swirling synth that grows in power. As the vocals glide in, they are even more tender than Kent’s original, with a tremulous feeling of a tenuous grip. The drums continue to undulate as the vocals shiver with pained emotion. Rather than the resonating xylophone of the original, the cover uses tentatively sparkling chimes.

The drums kick in with an undeniably active beat above the low end. I enjoy the way Midsummer Ex puts his own unique sound into the heart-rending vocals. Chimes shimmer with crystalline light as the low end continues to throb and the vocals carry the yearning melody. The melancholy within Midsummer Ex's voice is touching as the continually twirling synth flickers.

Longing pours from the vocal performance as the drums punch and the hovering synth exudes gem-like light, while widely cutting notes blare and the sound of an airplane announcement to fasten your seatbelt comes in. The drums continue to pulsate and again Midsummer Ex cries out with an engaging feeling while the chimes flare and the track fades into silence.

The song explores the tension between quiet despair and violent release, using the metaphor of "silence like a whisper" to convey emotional detachment. The narrator reflects on pain inflicted by someone close as he says “it won’t hurt when the killing’s done by a friend.”

He expresses a desire for escape, underscored by urgency and finality: “we ran out of time, leaving all behind.” A haunting contrast between numbness and intensity, culminates in a yearning for liberation through suffering as he says, “maybe this time it will bleed until I’m free.”

Conclusion

Fake It Till You Make It engages my heart and soul along with my sense of groove and rhythm. The way in which Midsummer Ex combines synthwave, synth pop and fascinating auditory textures with seriously infectious beats results in music which is massively enjoyable. The addition of emotional depth only makes for an even better listening experience.

The Gliding Faces - Veritas

Review by Karl Magi

Overall Album Impressions

The Gliding Faces’ Veritas combines Daniel Graham’s intoxicating electronic soundscapes, Max Herring’s powerful songwriting which roams across complicated emotional landscapes and his superb vocal performances to create synth-pop music with a dance edge and a rare level of insight and moving feeling. This is an album that makes me want to shake my booty while crying. In my world, that's an unbeatable combination.

Daniel Graham's production skills and ear for creating fascinating, entertaining synth textures lends Veritas dynamic energy and luscious depth. His sound combinations are first-rate and the melodies he writes are hooky and addictive. The way he propels the music while giving Max Herring space to emote and express himself adds even more quality to the album.

I am strongly engaged by Max Herring's songwriting chops and vocal skills. His songs explore anxiety, love, broken-heartedness and memory with sensitivity and tenderness. I find myself engaging with my own past feelings as the album unwinds. The way he's able to translate his lyrics into expressive vocal performances brings them home with immediacy.

The way Veritas mixes powerful feelings with danceability and bursting dynamism is quite enjoyable for me. I find myself being pulled in by Max Herring's songwriting and singing while Daniel Graham suffuses me with active liveliness and a sense of musical inventiveness.

My Favourite Songs Analyzed

“Things I Can’t Explain” comes to life as truly colossal bass tumbles and synth chords glow with luscious light. Max Herring’s fragile, tremulous vocals carry a melody full of exquisite aching as the synth continues to vibrate with surrounding light.

Max Herring’s voice is deep with hurt as industrial sounds clatter and soothing synth chords slide above the huge bass. Both singers intertwine their uniquely touching voices as the melody shivers with melancholy while the bass tumbles.

A twisting, smoothly flowing synth echoes, gripping my heartstrings with the melody’s mournful sensations. Lush bass continues to join with the shaping drums while the synth melody cries out.

The broken vocals call out with engaging emotion as rounded notes flare and the deep bass rumbles. The voice carries a pain that is raw and immediate as the hard-hitting industrial noises echo again. The singers combine their voices as the song comes to an end.

The narrator tells the song’s subject that he knows it causes them pain when there are things he can’t explain, like “where I was last night, what I was doing.” He adds that he can’t really say and it isn’t worth pursuing because “some things I can’t explain.”

Those things include “how a sunrise makes me feel,” and the way it’s torture for them to “deal with problems in our lives.” One of the problems is where he or the other person was when one of them was crying. He acknowledges the other is in great pain but confesses, “I’m stuck with the truth that I have to be lying, some things I can’t explain.”

He also struggles to explain how the subject wishes on a shooting star or how they ended up where they are, with “so many problems in our lives.” Now he asks where the song’s subject was last night “while I was fighting for us to be free of this pain.” He says they were elsewhere, “doing wrongs, I was fighting some things I can’t explain.”

These unexplained feelings include what it’s like to be misunderstood and how “what seemed awful really was good for the problems in our lives.”

Fiercely flaring synth slices with clean edges to join a rapidly trembling pulse to start “It's on Me.” Scintillating synth shines in intertwining lines as the percussion ticks and now the bass explodes with dynamic motion. A positive sensation fills the music as it flies forward and Max Herring’s softly elevated vocals fill the track with emotive depth.

The vocals are full of encouragement and support as the muscled drums and heavy bass rebound while the gleaming synth dances. The music’s propulsive nature matches Max Herring’s positive delivery, touching me with its sincerity of expression.

The drums continue to throb solidly and the vocals echo while the chorus flies and glistens. The bright synth glimmers as the percussion and bass interlock and fade. Max Herring’s gently affecting voice calls out while the synth exudes sunlight. The tremulous sound shifts again and the brilliant notes carry the hopeful melody as the song comes to an end.

Our storyteller points out the subject has been through a lot and seems to be losing touch, saying, “Reality is scratching your skin, your nightmares are moving in.” He encourages them not to let the thoughts “living rent-free” take away the shine “we all love to see.”

He reminds them that it’s all on him and they shouldn’t worry because “I’ve got you.” He says that when things get tough, “emotions rear their head,” they just need to remember he’s there and none of it is their fault.

Again, he tells them the intrusive thoughts shouldn’t steal their luster. The song’s subject worries they’re a burden, but the narrator reassures them he understands that “it’s love you need to face the day,” encouraging them to get up and face it because “we want you to stay.” He concludes, “You’ll never have to worry. I’ll always have your back.”

“Runway” opens as a twisting, sweeping synth rises smoothly as a glistening synth twines out above the gigantic bass and metallically guiding drums. After a percussive flourish, shiny chimes bounce as Max Herring's voice captures the song’s hip-swinging feeling.

The pounding bass and clean drums propel the music as a radiant synth carries the lissome melody and Max Herring has a twist in his voice which I find enjoyable, like a wry smile, as the string section shines. The low end is a solid pulse as the lyrics bounce between stereo channels and the French spoken word part adds another fun touch while the strings leap between.

Varied percussion taps as the drums and bass guide the music. The pipe organ part rings out with luminous energy and the open-voiced synth vibrates before the strings flash again and the low end thumps before the song comes to an end.

The narrator talks about a model walking the runway, feeling their “skin against these seams." He points out that confidence is everything and "with a smile you can spill the tea." He describes the model’s "stomping stilettos" as they catch their breath, adding that they never smile and they're "fresh to death."

Our storyteller describes the runway "lit like a boxing ring" and says it makes "the rhinestones sing." He adds that the runway feels like a tightrope as it feeds the people’s hope. As the eyeshadow runs down the model's cheek, he reminds them to "charge those hips, hit the beat.”

The narrator describes the model turning the corner and catching the light as they allow the crowd to "power your flight." The song ends as the narrator says in French: "Dressing is a way of life. Without elegance of heart, there is no elegance. Life is made up of little pleasures. Beauty has no age.”

Ghostly sounds and exhaled breaths drift past to commence “Last Night.” A sparkling sound flickers as Max Herring ’s passionate and painful vocals carry the yearning melody above the trickling synth and broadly tapping snare drum. Delicacy fills Max Herring’s expressive voice as a deeper voiceover adds gruff tones, while the xylophone-like synth echoes.

The drums and bass lock into a pounding beat as the trickling note pattern floats. A resonating, hollow percussive instrument moves with Max Herring's voice, which takes hold of my heart and tugs on it. These lyrics are a reminder of a difficult time in my life and one which I find deeply touching.

As the melancholy vocals slip by dramatically, the voiceover continues to repeat the phrase “last night.” After a flourish of percussion, the drums and bass continue to pulsate as the slowly swirling xylophone moves past. Max Herring's voice rises dreaming and full of loss above the drifting bass. A steadily buzzing sound moves as trumpeting notes flare and a laser-like synth trembles.

The snare drum hits hard again as wandering notes move past and Max Herring ’s tender voice slides out again, regretful and needy at the same time. As a string section swells lushly, the low end pulses and the track ends.

Our storyteller talks about the song’s subject being there with him and holding him tightly. He adds, “Last night I became aware while it was getting light that I need you far more than you need me.” He reaches the conclusion that this is just a fact and will remain so forever.

The narrator talks about how they were out together, “dancing through the laser beams.” He wonders if there can be any doubt that the relationship with the song’s subject is “exactly what it seems.” He reiterates the other person needs him more than he needs them and adds, “But my heart is true and we’ll make it eventually.”

In conclusion, our storyteller realizes they both drank too much the previous night and were barely in control. He goes on to say, “Last night I felt your touch and fell into the deepest hole.”

“Slick” begins as ferociously bouncing bass throbs and a mysterious synth floats with unmoored motion. A rubbery sounding synth carries a ghostly, jazzy melody out above the heavily rebounding low end.

The drums add sharpness as the roaming, peaceful melody joins Max Herring's distinctive voice, which flows with easy motion. Cleanly throbbing drums join with heavy bass as Max Herring embodies the lyrics’ mood. Razor-edged percussion moves with a round-sounding, dense synth while a smooth ringing fills the distance.

A bending synth flows with a silky, chilled-out melody while the vocals drive the message of the song. The low end’s bursting motion and thick bass add power while the vocals move with fragility. Drums and bass snap as Max Herring reaches out to the listener with his unique sound.

The bass throbs and the chorus rises again. The elevated melodic line howls above the hard-hitting low end before silence falls with Max Herring wordless voice.

The narrator says that the song's subject is "slick like the oil pumping through my heart," as he talks about them splashing it around artfully. He adds, "I don't quite know why I'm here, so I'll just keep out of your way." He describes the other person "spinning, spiraling from front to back," as they use "every tool on the rack.” He can see the skill it takes to do it, so he’ll “just keep out of your way.”

Our storyteller talks about the song's subject’s obvious talent, adding, "I watch as the world denies any kind of recompense for what you give away." He says the person has talent in his eyes: "If only the world was kind enough to make you a living, but you're always too forgiving.” He also describes the other person watching as all the likes and clicks accumulate.

If every search doesn't mean a hit, the narrator points out that the other person will be "filled with rage if you're not ranked top of the page." He says the person has "fans in 100 nations," asking if that isn't enough validation for them. He concludes that they "don't seem to get it through, it's all about you."

Ominous bass rumbles beneath a steady drum burst that creates a rapid, rushing sensation as “Disco Paranoia” kicks off. The slamming dance beat is joined by rapidly intertwining synths that gleam with fierce light as cymbals clash. A tightly wound, metallic synth echoes with ghostly nervousness as the low end thumps.

Max Herring delivers anxiety and discomfort as the drums build and a skipping, glimmering synth flies with manic liveliness. The vocals feel uncomfortable and stressed, evoking the same feelings in me. The minor key vocal melody is full of unsettled feeling, while a brightly tripping synth moves with the unstoppable low end.

The song glides into a calmer segment, where a sense of relief fills Max Herring's voice. The drums flourish as the vocals are chopped and reverent noises move behind them. Then the drums accelerate again and the track pounds onward with radiance before ending.

The storyteller feels his nerves jangle in the club “like the lasers above” as people push and shove. He says, “my stomach drops like the beat, the walls closing around my feet,” as paranoia floods his mind inside the disco.

Our narrator hears alarms ringing in his ears and feels “anxiety like mould,” which isn’t being helped by the vodka he’s drinking. He feels like he’ll collapse soon. He adds that his brain is “filled with lies” and his senses are fried, concluding, “there’s so much I’ll take, one more song and I’ll break.”

As the song ends, the storyteller remembers why he’s even at the club and says, “the outside world can disappear, I’ll grab a drink and take a shot and try to forget the lot.”

“Abandoned” begins with undulating, swinging synths echoing out while tiny, crystalline notes sparkle and the chords launch into motion. The vocals are hypnotic and elevated before the main melody flies out on a glimmering synth, full of loneliness, while strings intermingle faintly in the background.

Tremulous percussion pushes forward as Max Herring's melancholy voice cries out with bereft emotion. The strings shimmer as the voice climbs and the track then returns to the swinging, bouncing beat as the chorus carries the sensations of loss that flood the lyrics.

The percussion accelerates and the drumbeat throbs while the vocals swell with pain, moving above rippling arpeggios. The track pulses onward, as Max Herring carries my feelings with it. The chanted chorus swings smoothly once more before the track falls silent.

Our narrator describes “an empty chair, an empty bed, everything empty except my head.” He explains it’s about how “it’s you, yourself alone” and how the song’s subject walked away. As for himself, he’s left behind, bereft, because “it’s me, myself and I you abandoned.”

The storyteller says he was “unaware” and wonders if the other person was ever truly present. He was lost inside his own mind when he was “abandoned, left for dead.” As the song concludes, he mourns that he now has “an empty soul, an empty heart, everything empty now we’re apart.”

“Waste of Time” begins with building, swelling notes that grow over a bass pulse. Darker feelings wash below as a digital synth wriggles through the music while pan pipes exhale smoothly. Flaring chords trip underneath as Max Herring's voice is choppy and full of discomfort. In the background, sunlight spills while Max Herring expresses feelings of worry and anxiety.

As the frolicking notes intertwine, the vocals rise with delicacy and feeling. The low end punches as the performance captures the sensation of unwanted thoughts, while the synth glimmers with light. As the pan pipe synth intertwines with airy lightness, Max Herring fills his vocals with regret while the percussion pulses. The drums and bass keep the propulsion going with luscious depth as sounds twist and break. I enjoy the way the synth adds to the sensations of disconnected discomfort. As a fluting synth dances past, the glistening notes slide together and the track ends with choppy sounds.

Our tale’s teller regrets not having said what he wanted to before the moment vanished. He said he'd move on and let it go, but "that was a lie, I'll think about this till I die." He adds that it's going around in his head and he'll "worry about something else instead." He points out that it's a waste of time, but "I'm a slave to my mind."

The narrator is "preoccupied, antagonized, obsessively agonized," as he overthinks and second-guesses himself. He goes on to say, "give it a rest."

“What We Had” opens as waves of smoothly trembling synth move with twinkling chimes and crushingly massive bass. Starry notes sparkle like far-off dreams and Max Herring's voice reaches out with mingled nostalgia and pain above the smoothly tripping drumbeat. The vocals twist my heartstrings with the anticipation of the pain about to occur.

Chimes glitter as Max Herring's vocals climb with intense emotion and the drums burst. The notes are like silken threads and the vocals are hurting and damaged. As the shining notes irradiate the song, the vocals evoke painful memories. The drums continue to guide the music while the vocals soar upwards and the chimes pour out a scintillating luminescence. The emotion builds until it reaches aching intensity before the fragile notes echo. As a wind sweeps, Max Herring cries out once more before the song ends.

Our storyteller remembers himself with the song's subject as they were "kissing and holding, smiling and laughing." He was "feeling and floating, content and unknowing"utterly unprepared for what was about to happen.

Now, when the narrator thinks about the relationship they shared, he's unable to feel anything else but sadness. When he thinks about what the song’s subject said to him, "everything gets blurry, my heart hurts my head." He finds himself "hoping and crying, drowning and dreaming" as he thinks of the other person with regret.

The storyteller and the song’s subject’s relationship broke down into "shouting and fighting, hurting and panicking" in a torturous loss of meaning. Now he struggles to imagine his life without the other person, adding, “I can't describe the feeling, I can't tell you what I mean.”

He concludes that “you’re my perfection, you bring me joy. That’s why it hurts when you toss me like a toy.”

“Lift” begins with massively rebounding drums that move with a sunset synth glowing with orange light. Uniquely angular drums follow, as the lower-end percussion presses on slowly. The string section carries a positive melody full of hope above the low end. Max Herring enchants my heart with his expressive passion.

Love permeates the melody, which sings as the chorus climbs with sensations of fulfillment and safety. The strings intertwine and add affection as the vocals capture relief and settled comfort. The drums rattle while softly swirling chords interlock and Max Herring cries out with deeply felt sentiment.

Strings shine while the choral voices in the distance rebound and the vocals climb higher, reaching for the stars. The orchestral strings dance with an encouraging melody that folds me into a warm embrace. Aspiration spills through the music before the song ends.

The narrator "felt an eternal dismay, only living for today," and says that with one thing after another, "the future made me shudder." He asks the song's subject how they manage to make him feel so calm. He says the other person gave him a lift and adds, "Your existence is a gift." He feels unafraid in the other person's arms, putting his life in their hands.

Our storyteller reiterates that the other person lifts him up and feels like a gift. He adds, "I'm whole because of you. Till eternity, it's us two." He goes on to say that everything has now changed, asking the song's subject to "understand my sentiment," because the words don't come lightly and he wants to remind the other person nightly that they mean the world to him because "with you, I can just be."

As the narrator concludes, he says he didn’t feel like he could ever be "the sensitive kind, open and ready." But he’s come to realize that it’s so easy and "I get that lift eternally."

Conclusion

Veritas successfully combines melodic beauty, dance floor-filling grooves and emotionally powerful songwriting and singing. The Gliding Faces have created music that pierces my heart and makes me want to dance in the best possible combination of feelings.