GammaFlow - Twin Palms

Review by Karl Magi

Overall Album Impressions

GammaFlow’s Twin Palms is a sun-soaked, pastel-filled sonic journey that reflects a “Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous” aesthetic. I enjoy the combination of laid-back soundscapes with a definitive 1980s conception of luxury living, which results in an album full of chilled-out moments and cool blue water sounds. The plethora of talented guest artists only deepens the appeal and engagement of this album.

Atmosphere plays a significant role in the overall feel of Twin Palms. I enjoy the way in which the artist and his fellow music makers are able to draw imagery of a lifestyle full of luxury and indulgence. It evokes white suits, big hair and classic 1980s supercars cruising down palm-lined streets. The way in which these images and sounds combine tickles my unashamed love of 1980s aesthetics.

The way that GammaFlow and his fellow musical contributors use their guitars, synths and voices deepens Twin Palms’ auditory experience. They create tracks that glide and glow, drenched in tropical sunlight and cool swimming pool water. The music evokes ultra-cool atmospheres with smoothness and ease, layering synths in lush waves to create depth and feelings of tranquility and peace.

I also want to mention all of the musical guests who feature on Twin Palms. Each of them brings their unique sonic signature and musical feeling to add to the cohesive and well-conceived emotional tenor of the album. They are all immensely talented and their contributions only increase the listening pleasure of the music.

My Favourite Tracks Analyzed

“Ocean Breeze” comes to life as a spangling synth smoothly expands and pure, clear sounds slide while solid bass pounds softly. Orion’s satiny smooth voice slides with affectionate, dreaming emotion as crystal chimes flash delicately. Orion speaks the next line, then Lemon mixes in her voice to create a warming harmony.

Clarity fills the radiant synth as it floats limpidly, while the resonant vocals echo with deep feeling. The summer sun is reflected in the sparkling synth while the percussion adds a heartbeat. Both singers' voices mix with passionate feeling, Lemon’s voice adding a softer touch to Orion’s vocals. Brilliant synth flows with easy motion above the continually throbbing bass.

Pastel notes become a luscious flow before the gleaming synth spills out more radiance. Orion’s calming vocals drift and caress before the chorus slips in again, permeating me with peace. The synth doubles the vocals, suffusing the music with lucid life before the song ends.

Our storyteller tells the subject that he can’t ignore all the signs—“the moment you explore all the good times.” He speaks of "riding by the shore, floating on the sea, coasting on the wind" in the ocean breeze.

The narrator talks about holding his arms wide open "in place of the sun" as they embrace the night and dance. They are surrounded by street lights and “all of the glowing signs flow into the night.”

With “every moment, every winding road to the sunlight,” our storyteller reflects. He adds, “we can’t forget all the wrong times, the ones we regret.” However, in the end, there’s still a recollection of the good times.

A full synth rises with a rich, slightly gruff sound as “Promenade” starts . The synth creates tranquility as it moves with fragility. Clean notes move along with an active slap bassline that wanders in bursts. The percussion forms a dynamic, swinging pulse as slightly nasal-sounding notes intertwine and a reverberant keyboard carries a gently encouraging melody above the shaping percussion and dense bass.

Twinkling notes sing out with an uplifting feeling as they are joined by a bending, wistful synth that winds while the funky slap bass locks with the drumbeat. The brightly nasal synth calmly hovers as a fluting note pattern carries my relaxed mind with it. The slap bass is fat and guiding as the percussion continues to pulse.

The polished synth lambently floats past and the bending notes have a soothing effect as they hover. The funky bass and steady percussion create a lush bed for the elevated synth to roam and the track trembles into silence on flaring notes.

“Waterfront” commences as an effulgent, widely sweeping synth fills the music with serenity. The bass is massive and supportive as the drums pulsate and pan pipes flow past with relaxed gentleness, exhaling and spreading calm to me. Round-sounding, open synth flickers as twisting notes cry out with a tranquil touch above the smoothly guiding low end.

The drums rebound and the bass throbs as reverent sounds mix with easy motion. The bass continues to quickly pulsate and the drums guide while the shiny synth irradiates the music. The bass intermingles as the pan pipes continue to slide with laid-back emotion and the tightly flickering notes jump out above the continually guiding low end.

Once again, the synth slowly expands, carrying a slightly wistful but chilled-out melody. Vocal-sounding synth forms a luscious sound bed before the track ends on glimmering notes.

Densely glittering synth clouds swell upward as “Business Casual” opens \. Luminosity spills out as the thick slap bass intertwines and moves in gnarly lines. Dan Mason’s voice echoes as the bass interlocks and the drums pulsate. The delicacy of the vocals carries out as he speaks of wanting to be sent away, while the percussion ticks easily.

Dan Mason’s vocals are soft as he speaks about catching love and dreaming about it, tenderly unfolding as the lucid synth spills out. Nasally bending notes float with gossamer delicacy while the slap bass intertwines.

Dan Mason says he’s got nothing to hold and love. The shiny notes tremble with delicacy as he adds aching emotion, wishing for missing love. shimmery notes sing out with a floating melody that I find touching as the gnarly bass joins a synth wave.

The vocals are spaced out and full of nostalgic desire as a softly illuminating synth drifts and the fat bass tumbles. Xylophone reverberates with calm before the track ends.

“Open Spaces” starts off as vibrating notes move and the voice-over shifts. The voice-over adds a sensual and passionate feeling as the chimes sparkle and heavy percussion forms a shaping influence. The dreamy guitar drifts with tranquility as heavily rebounding notes pulsate. Disembodied vocals wander, adding a disconnected feeling.

The chimes are glassy as the guitar floats past, chilled out and full of warmth. The drums patter as the vocals echo in drifting waves. The continually vibrating drums and bass add form while the trickling chimes create a filigree of light. I am enamored of the untethered feeling which fills the track as it glides past. The guitar shines lusciously to balance the roaming vocals before the track comes to an end.

A tremulous synth moves in fragile and haunted lines to begin "Midnight Heat". Fat bass intertwines below intensely illuminating chimes as a hang drum synth rings with metallic resonance. Chopped-up lyrics speak of midnight heat as panpipes drift and drums bounce. The hang drum adds dynamically dancing, yet gentle sounds while the explosive drums continue.

A sax planes through with minor-key elegance, twisting through the music to create a feeling of uncertain emotion as the rebounding low end shifts. I enjoy the sneaky feeling of the sax as it unwinds and the broken vocal echoes. Panpipes levitate with trailing, breathy feelings as the vocals echo again. The drums and bass are thick and heavy, while the bright hang drum and flashing chimes intermingle. The feeling of weightless drifting fills the music before the track ends on the sax.

"Dream Sequence" starts off as creamy, massive bass forms a rich flow in the distance as muffled drums throb and entangling notes glide together. The sound grows clearer as crisp drums add shape. Bell-like synth carries a calming melody, reminding me of blue water and sunlight. Metallic percussion ticks as azure synth clouds rise and twangy bass flows while sparkling chimes flutter.

Rounded, breezy synth slips past in soothing motion while the huge low end adds form to the track. The drums create a clean pulse as bending, pastel notes slide and chimes flit as sunlight glints from them.

The chiming synth melody is easygoing while the drums and bass add motion underneath it. Bass tumbles past and intermingling synth slides back into indistinct haze before silence falls. My mind fills with deep relaxation as the music enfolds me like warm water in this track.

Blaring synth heats like the summer sun to commence "White Sands." A solidly throbbing kick drum moves underneath the chimes, which have a string-like quality and metallic brightness as they flutter above the funky low end. The drums groove along with the slap bass as distant notes fill with early morning sunlight.

The chimes have an effervescent sensation as the slap bass moves with a steady groove. Trickling notes move with aquatic feelings as the blaring notes spill out with brilliance. The sensation of cooling in the midst of the ocean and sun draws me in. Flitting notes slip past as the bass rumbles. Hollow percussion pulsates as the open-voice synth drifts in a soothing and slightly broken melody before the music ends.

“World Class” opens as resonating bells flare brightly and a restful bass flow moves. Distant drums softly touch the music, adding form while the brilliant bells flash. Slap bass moves with a twangy feeling as a vocal-sounding synth carries a soothing melodic pattern.

Elevated notes glint with crystalline luminosity as the low end offers guidance. Tropical light suffuses the music as the chimes ring softly and the percussion continues to tick with an easy motion. Breathiness spills as the music is pierced by bells, and the slap bass adds a funky quality while the flowing notes intermingle. Glittering sounds drift past and the drums add shape.

Now the electric guitar moves with jazzy energy, flicking and singing as it skips through the music. Underneath, the low end continues to move forward as the chimes sparkle on. The guitar flies to the sky with leaping dynamism. I enjoy the freeness and easy-going nature of the music as the track ends on bright notes.

Traffic sounds and rapidly glimmering synth sparks move above slowly pulsing drums to open “Big City Lights”. The thick, rounded bass adds support to the notes which dance like lights at night. A hollow-sounding panpipe trickles in a melody that’s mellow and chill, like an apartment above the city skyline.

The xylophone-like notes are joined by coruscating sounds that wash and flow above the steadily moving low end. Tightly wound synth wriggles with a calm flow as the percussion moves with the dense bass. Shiny sounds float with starlet illumination, and I imagine myself watching the view from the penthouse, far above the hustle and bustle of the street.

“Willow” comes alive as bending notes slowly tremble and rebound. Drums add a strong pulse as lustrous-sounding synth intermingles with impassioned sax, crying out with reedy density.

Ethereally drifting notes form a luscious flow as the widely throbbing drums move with electric bass. Elevated, burnished notes shimmer past the steadily pulsing low end while the sax adds a chilled-out and cool emotional change. Chimes radiate a polished feeling as the drums move with solid propulsion.

As the sax unwinds, it carries me to a place of sophisticated relaxation while the bright notes permeate the music. The splashy percussion interlocks with the bass as a tumbling curtain of synth and glamorous, spreading chords move around before the track ends on the sax.

Conclusion

Twin Palms transports me to a retro fantasy world full of ultra-luxurious decadence. It has a serene beauty mixed with dynamic energy and is full of well-drawn imagery that carries my imagination with aplomb. When one adds the skillful guest contributions, the end result is a highly enjoyable listening experience.

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.