Pyrococcus - Glow With The Flow

Review by Karl Magi

Overall Album Impressions

Pyrococcus’ Glow With The Flow spills over with thrilling energy, positivity and a sense of life as a dance floor. Pyrococcus fills the music with excitement, joy and unbridled enthusiasm as the thundering beats are a call to dance. In concert with his collaborators, he creates playful music which fuels hope and fills me with a feeling of possibility and freedom. This is music for celebration and uplift.

For me, the heart of Glow With The Flow is the combination of the guest artists and Pyrococcus’ skills and sonic sensibilities. Each of his guests brings their own fascinating approach and undeniable verve to the album's mixture of dynamic movement and spiritual positivity. The way in which the different musical elements combine results in heartwarming sensations and the irresistible need to move.

Melody is a crucial component of Pyrococcus’ approach to Glow With The Flow He writes tunes brimming over with memorable qualities and expressive feeling. Each melody captures some essential emotion and drives it home with unrelenting engagement, weaving through the propulsive beats to touch one at a heart level.

Naturally, the dance floor vibes in Glow With The Flow make listeners want to groove. Each track is compulsively danceable and I can imagine it filling floors from nightclubs to raves with no difficulty at all. A sense of freedom and lightness pours from the album as it evolves and the end result is music which is both pleasing to listen to and fun to move to.

My Favourite Songs Analyzed

“In Flames” starts off as rising synth chords move with a slowly descending, jet-like sound. Vaulting synth chords imbue the music with intense luminosity as the reggaeton beat adds Caribbean flair.

As the Latin piano dances, the lead singer’s confident voice carries passion and desire while chords rocket with a coruscating flash. The singer’s voice drifts with intense emotion as the beat smacks in again and the effulgent synth climbs.

The chorus erupts and the percussive beat moves beneath the affecting voice of the lead singer. The steady beat is hypnotic as the piano glides with a deeply shifting synth and the vocals emanate sensuality.

Brilliant chords jump in and the hip-swaying rhythm is hard to resist while the vocals pull me into the message of the song. As the scintillating chords flash, the chorus cries out again with addictive potency, while the indomitable low end pulsates.

The vocals hover silkily before the undulating chords spill out light and the beat becomes a smoothly cruising pulsation. As the lead singer gives herself over to emotion, the chords take on a minor key quality despite their crystalline shimmer. Percussion thunders as the beat changes tempo and the lead singer reaches out to express the words with engaging strength before the song comes to an end.

Our narrator inhales deeply and feels the fire starting as "the smell of the smoke is sweet and inviting.” She says, "The glowing dance floor calls my name, I'm losing myself in the flames," as she asks if the other person can feel the heat rising too.

The heat is a "force that's surging, breaking through" while they "ride the volcano to new heights." Now the walls shake and the ground trembles as "fire is burning and it's coming for you."

As they reach new heights, she asks the song's subject if they can feel it. Their bodies become aware and their hearts race as "the music and beat has us hypnotized," while they run through the flames.

A steadily pulsing low piano and thumping bass joins the lead singer's voice to open “Glory of the Cosmos”. She conveys deep respect and awe as the lively piano dances while the bass growls with hefty musclie. Her smooth delivery carries with joyful strength while the piano fades and a wandering synth bends as she leaps in.

The low end thuds with dance floor–filling verve as her engaging presence drives home the song’s message, pulling me deeper into its spirit. Trumpeting tones shine with clean light as the beat continues to pound while the piano frolics and an elevated synth twists with ghostly energy. Flashing notes tumble as wordless phrases ascend, the piano twinkles and the low end adds weight.

As the drums rattle and the bass reverberates, the singer unleashes her expressive performance while the piano moves with celebratory life. The piano explodes with sunlight and the track comes to an end.

As space’s vast expanse opens before the storyteller's eyes, she speaks of "a never ending dance of light, a dream that fills us all with delight." She adds that from the most minuscule particle to the most massive galaxy "the universe is full of wonder." She continues, "We cannot help but ponder the glory of the cosmos." Within those innumerable stars, there's a story yet to be told.

Despite our fondest wishes, "we may never fully understand the mysteries of the universe at hand," but that doesn't mean we can't appreciate "the light that’s shining from the rays." From subatomic particles to "the supernova sky, the glory of the cosmos is a sight to admire."

“Electricity Game” begins with a bold piano and wordless vocals full of impassioned engagement. The piano chords rebound as the bass trembles and Viktoria Sunshine fills the music with soulful energy. The vocals surge with explosive, uplifting liveliness as the piano entangles with a leaping synth that washes the music in radiance.

The piano is dynamic and joyful as Viktoria Sunshine lets her voice tear through with unbridled expression. I enjoy the vitality of the performance which the vocals embody. As shining synth mingles with flashing piano, Viktoria Sunshine’s voice unfolds with pure positivity.

The piano chords keep dancing as the chorus leaps upwards while percussive tones clash and bounce. Happiness permeates the vocal performance as the low end throbs. Exuberance defines Viktoria Sunshine’s voice as she carries the rousing main melody while the keyboard sings with unstoppable life and the song closes on the piano’s glowing power.

As they move under the neon lights, the narrator says, “We dance with a mysterious grace and lure you into our embrace.” She moves closer with seductive intent as she plays a “dangerous game with no line between pleasure and pain.” This is the electricity game as she moves with “hypnotic freedom, the voltage rushing through my veins.”

“Impulses twist and turn and sway” as the storyteller speaks of rapidly falling in love. She adds, “Be true to your fate, you will never be the same.” The night air is charged and she can “feel the electricity ignite.” Her body crackles with energy, her mind alive. She concludes, “I can’t resist, I let myself dive into the power of the current flow. I’m made of energy, it’s all I know!”

Warm piano tones cascade as sharp drums thump to commence “Raving”. Manthy's free-flowing voice sparks enthusiasm as the low end drives with dynamic force and the piano shines with a galvanizing feeling.

The danceable bass guides the music as the vocals soar with thrilling expression while the piano notes shimmer. Manthy captures the joyful dynamism of the track in a way that catches my ear and fills me with positivity.

The low end collides with Ignacio Arrua’s weighty bass while the piano skips through with effervescent ease. Vocals glimmer and fly as the low end slices and the piano stutters with irradiating light.

Liberty and unbound happiness pour out as the bass rebounds and the piano skims across the music. Sharp-edged synth glistens while Manthy embodies the freedom in the lyrics before the song comes to a radiant close.

The beat thuds, neon lights flash and the crowd dances as our storyteller says that “we lose ourselves in the music’s heart” while they rave to the beat and let it flow. An electric rush of energy leaps through the crowd as they’re “moving to the rhythm like a child.” The music lifts them higher and they’re “dancing through the night on fire.”

As the world outside recedes, the narrator says they’ll stay lost in the moment while “raving to the beat, letting it flow.” They’ll allow the music to move their souls “as we dance and lose control.” As they become one with the beat, it frees them and they are “all connected by the energy.”

“Fire in My Soul” kicks off as Ignacio Arrua’s slap bass moves funkily and the resonant vocals carry an exciting feeling while the guitar accompanies digital-sounding, hollow synth. After a skidding sound, the drum and bass rhythm pops as Deeolares’ heart-filling singing encapsulates encouragement and strength.

The music leaps with joy as the snare drum and kick drum entwine with the bass in a pumping beat. Ilia Neverov’s guitar is ultra-chill, joined by fat bass as Deeolares captures all of the ardent intensity and unbridled happiness within the song.

As the low end stutters, Deeolares catches me with her fresh vocal performance while the guitar continues to shine with funky luminosity and the broken vocals flash. The beat’s undeniable collision with the soul-infused vocals fills the music with an irresistible sense of obstacles conquered. The guitar jams through the track with a great vibe and the music sails to an end.

For our storyteller, “the journey starts as fate commands, trading new paths my heart demands.” She speaks of a “fire in my soul, a force that makes me whole.” She moves forward confidently while “unfolding dreams with all of my might.” She chases the light with “passion’s fire.” She adds that we must “cherish visions and make them true.”

Now there’s an “epic thrill” for the narrator as we “glide toward the future” and face obstacles with resolve. She speaks of the way in which we’ll “spread wings of light” and turn the sky with our sacred power. As the song concludes, the narrator says, “obsession fuels ambition’s flame, creating pathways, fortunes to claim.” She finishes with, “embrace the call, let doubts dissolve, in daring steps we evolve.”

A gigantic, rumbling pulsation thumps to commence “Let’s Attack.” The beat adds weight and forward progress as the percussion moves while the piano chords limn the music in radiance and whispered vocals add urgency.

The low end is heavy while Nida adds her gutsy voice, the broken melody full of utter victory. The piano chords have a jazzy sheen as Nida carries the adrenaline-filled vocals with her full voice. I enjoy the defiant nature of her words as the wildly flaring synth erupts with freedom and the rhythm heaves gigantically.

The depth and shared feeling within the vocals can't be denied as the piano adds bright notes. The entire song pulsates with huge confidence while Nida lets loose with her concentrated voice before the music stops.

Taking a risk and leaving behind everything we've known is a chance for dreams to come true, according to the narrator. As we set course “on a mission so grand, side by side we make a stand” while adventure calls out to us, we make a path forward despite the fact that “challenges await, no room for slack.” She reminds us to “unleash your power, raise your voice” as every decision is a defining choice.

As the flames flare up, our storyteller says, “we take the lead, rising strong at lightning speed” while fighting against the odds. She adds that we transform new horizons as we are “on the edge,” while we push limits and strive. We make a “daring move against the grain” as we break free from the everyday.

There can be “no looking back, no regrets, no holding back” as we attack and take a chance to get what we want. The narrator calls on everyone to take risks. As the song concludes, she says, “unleash your power, raise your voice.”

“Cathartic Dance” begins as a keyboard jumps in dynamic lines, while Ziberia’s voice overflows with undeniable energy. The piano pumps as Ziberia’s voice unfolds with ardent sensations. A minor-key keyboard brims with irrepressible vitality as Ziberia’s soulful voice flies and the beat throbs, making you want to hit the dance floor.

The chorus soars with effervescent encouragement, transmitting celebration. The vocals are slightly distorted as the piano notes flit and vault and Ziberia releases her voice with joyful abandon. The track is addictive as it thunders, with the piano flicking rapidly through the music.

The chorus arcs again, twisting and weaving, full of brio. I enjoy the broken beat as it adds another active element. The piano interlocks and the main melody jumps above the active piano before the song closes out.

Our storyteller speaks about being in a place full of darkness and shadow with "souls seeking solace in the ballroom" as they ache for release "in a dance, cathartic, wild and free." She talks about the heavy burdens we carry and "the stories etched in every fold.” However, she adds that "tonight we shed our heavy skin, as the rhythm takes us deep within."

The narrator exhorts the audience to feel the beat and "let it ignite the fire within the darkest light" as they let their bodies move and their spirits fly in "this cathartic dance, forevermore." She talks about letting go of pain with every step and releasing tension "in smooth movements" as they break the chain.

Our storyteller talks about embracing our vulnerability to find strength, adding that "in this sacred space, we go to any length to heal the wounds and let go of the past." As we move into "this dance of release, our souls transcend."

As the song winds down, the narrator says that we should "dance with hearts unbound (in) a symphony of movement, (as) our souls resound," and in a "cathartic dance, we find our ground."

"Returning to Earth" comes to life with expansive synth pulses and high tones that tumble through the music. Stacey Jay’s voice rings out with a wordless melody as wind sweeps. The bass descends and intriguing vocals carry the gossamer, adventurous melody as percussion rebounds rapidly. The glimmering synth calls out with energizing life as the drums stutter.

A raised sound falls through the music as strings call out with warm dynamism and digital-sounding notes descend. Stacey Jay’s vocals are expressive and distinctive as the strings mingle and intertwine with deep feeling. The piano-like synth dances and moves as the strings sing with a surrounding sensation. The piano rings and Stacey Jay’s voice flows with wordless feeling as digital-sounding notes drop again.

The stuttering, ticking rhythm dances along with the radiant synth as it flicks through the music. Piano-like notes ring out again, carrying the uplifting melody and the bass drops as sweeping noises rush again. The chorus moves through with intensity. I am drawn to this song’s message as it unfolds. Stacey Jay lets her voice flow again with intense feeling before the song ends.

The narrator talks about how she has travelled far from distant planets as a "cosmic explorer, guided by a star." She talks about flying through space, "weightless and free," while seeing "wonders, a universe of grace."

Our storyteller says that she "sought answers in celestial heights" out amongst the cosmic dust and vast vistas." Somewhere inside of her, she heard a voice calling her name and "guiding me back to Earth's gentle flame." She says that in the expanse of space, planet Earth's beauty is still "unsurpassed, a treasure meant to last."

The narrator says that from her intergalactic adventures, she ends her journey and returns to "Earth's embrace, where love and joy blend." She says that back on Earth, she's grounded and "my soul finds serenity." She says that "from lunar craters to Saturn's rings, I've marvelled at extraterrestrial things" but she concludes that what she truly wishes to see is "Earth's rivers, mountains, seas."

Conclusion

Glow With The Flow is an album for summer fun, lifting the blues and getting you moving. The combination of superb guest performers, music alive with galvanizing qualities and melodies that reach out to caress the soul makes this an excellent listening experience.

Zak Vortex - Back From The Dead

Review by Karl Magi

Overall Album Impressions

Zak Vortex’s Back From The Dead is an album that delves deeply into the core of human emotion. It is a musical reflection on love, life and mortality, spurred by Zak Vortex’s experience of suffering a severe heart attack and being in a coma from which his family was warned he might never wake. The way in which Zak Vortex weaves together powerfully affecting melodies, expressive guitar performances and layers of beautifully intertwined synth creates music that moves the soul and touches the heart.

At the heart of Back From The Dead is emotional openness and rawness. There’s a clarity to the expressions of fear, worry and loss, as well as affection, love and tenderness that fill the tracks. Zak Vortex channels all of the complex emotions with which he must have struggled through the experience into music that is poignant, emotive and full of undeniable caring.

One way Zak Vortex expresses his emotions effectively is through the melodic writing on Back From The Dead. Each melody dives fully into the welter of feelings that must fill him as he contemplates the events that transpired. Every line of melody has an undeniable beauty, delivering a heady punch of sensation.

Another strong element of this album is Zak Vortex’s guitar work. He captures the palpable ache and sense of loss that touch the music, while still managing to convey hopeful aspiration and a sense of unbelievable gratitude for what he has in life. I must admit that the guitar gave me moments of melancholy contemplation as it moved through the music.

All of the different synth tones and textures mingle to draw me further into the musical landscape Zak Vortex paints here. Each synth is carefully chosen to capture a different mood or feeling, layered one upon another to create imagery that is touching and full of moving sensations I find irresistible.

My Favourite Tracks Analyzed

“How Do I Say Goodbye?” starts off with bass that ripples richly and glittering chimes which twirl and grow in strength. As the chimes flow, a peacefully expanding chord glides with luscious warmth and a rhythmic cadence bursts. The lead instrument glows, exuding caring emotion as the beat raps. The main melody moves me, poignant and full of loss, while satin tones in the distance shine with caressing radiance.

A brighter synth trembles, slowly shimmering, as the distant backing notes wrap me in a cloudy blanket. The low end guides as gleaming tones tumble and ache, while a wordless cry rises, capturing longing and hurt The bass washes with tidal depth as brilliant notes sparkle like stars in the firmament.

Floating voices wander while the percussion locks into a steady beat and a diamantine synth flickers with starlight. Roaming tones create peaceful contemplation against the sharp percussion. Bell-like notes ring as the drifting vocals slide over the clean drumbeat. Meditative sensations permeate the music as the artist considers the possibility of leaving this world. The low end throbs like a heartbeat while elevated notes exude serenity before the track ends.

A soft female voice carries a mournful melody as scintillating light suffuses the track to open “Falling”. Serene notes drift above the heavy bass throb, turning in slow motion as the . A steadily repeating, glowing synth joins a cascading melody carried on a refulgent instrument that spills brightness through the track.

The low end drops as female vocals exhale wistful dreaminess above a lambent background. A glockenspiel sings with affectionate, brokenhearted melody, touching my heart as it flows through. A heavy pulse rebounds while a medium-high, glimmering synth transmits a hypnotically enticing melodic pattern.

The glockenspiel adds distant luminosity as the shaping bass and clean drums press on. Glistening notes call out with tragic tranquility as the track progresses, percussive elements falling away until the exhalations of the female voice bring it to a gentle close.

“Let Me Wake Up” commences with a trembling synth and deep bass before a sax cries out with exquisitely soft emotion. A shining synth drifts as the sax breathes with powerful feeling, full of pleading. The beat strikes while the gliding bass curls softly around the sax, which pours out a soul-deep ache I find poignant.

The rhythmic pattern taps lightly before driving harder as the sax’s emotive voice carries all the hope wrapped in the melody. Wordless vocals and string-like tones intertwine to create calming sensations while the bass flows with lush depth.

Clean low end vibrations support crystalline notes that ring out, echoing through the track, heavy with hurt and hope. Exhaling vocals join the sax as it expresses love, fear of loss and fierce affection before the track slips away.

Distant notes float with a misty sensation as the throbbing percussion slowly grows in power to start “Will I See You Again?” There is a tentative quality to the melody before it becomes full and rich, repeating in hypnotic motion as shards of light flicker from the lead synth.

The supporting beats are dense, adding shape while the crystalline melody aches with remembrance and regret. The track slides into a quiet moment of reflection before the rhythm returns and the shining notes spill brilliance.

The guitar cries out with passion and haunted emotion, full of yearning and reaching. The continually repeating synth hypnotizes while the percussion and bass intermingle.

I am touched by the palpable affection and fear of loss within the melody while the scintillating notes sparkle. The music takes shape through the dense low end before the track ends with rapidly oscillating notes fading into silence.

“Dream” begins as a synth trickles with a softly oneiric sensation while the bass rumbles in rolling waves. Breathy notes drift with graceful lightness as the main melody sails past with disconnected, hovering sensations and an aurora of tones spills through the music.

The percussion moves with steady rhythm as the guitar intertwines with broken emotion, weaving unmoored, hurting sorrow. Chimes bring encouragement, hinting at the possibility of hope despite tragedy. The melody is fragile and melancholy, conveying to me all of the gentle emotions within the track before it finishes.

Lapping synth waves wash through to commence “Wires”. Bass oscillates with lugubrious motion as a xylophone adds metallic brilliance and ever-growing chords expand into wide, sweeping motion. A steady pulsation beneath the other musical elements adds form while the rising synth glows with encouraging, soothing emotion.

Metallic notes glitter like a mirage, dazzling me and moving me, above the clicking snare and rumbling bass. Sunlight suffuses the high notes while the low end swells with weight. A melody mingling love, gentleness and a hint of emptiness calls out.

Once again, the percussion slices with shaping accuracy beneath the raised notes that flare with hopeful illumination. Shiny synth sparkles and flits while the bass adds luscious support. As the track closes, a sense of progress and escape permeates the music before silence falls.

“Corridors” opens as a graceful synth ripples with soothing smoothness. Coruscant tones skip in hypnotic patterns as the colossal rhythm rebounds and powerful chords add strength. Triumph and rising confidence permeate the melody as it fills the music, while the twirling figures add depth and motion behind it.

Shimmering accents glint with tenderness while the drum beat guides the song with assured power. Luminous tones drift in flowing arcs as the warming synth glows with rich illumination. I enjoy the sense of growing ease and victorious progress which fills the melody while the low end pulse drives forward.

Celestial luminance spills from the entrancing patterns as flickering tones spark. The rhythm steadies, grounded and unwavering, before it fades into sharp-edged bass and delicate chimes, suffusing the music with sensations of wide blue skies. The snare and bass surge once more as the synth soars skyward. As the track ends, I am left with hopeful anticipation for days yet to come.

Reverent choral voices rise above looming bass and the saxophone cuts into the music with expressive warmth to start “Miracle”. The rhythm pulses like a heartbeat while the jazzy sax fills the soundscape with soul and reverberant chimes exude light.

The low end heaves with shaping motion while the ethereal sax sighs with haunting emotion, as faint ticking textures add definition. A drifting synth glides with tranquility while the echoing sax lingers with ghostly delicacy.

Metallic tones pierce the air with soft brilliance while the worshipful synth choir calls out wistfully. Floating chimes hover as the electric guitar creates a sense of hope, the steady drumbeat throbbing beneath.

The sax quivers before the gliding tones entwine with fierce chimes, flooding the track with effulgence. Deep with longing, the sax reaches out in a way that touches me profoundly. The drumbeat continues its heavy heave as gleaming notes flare one last time before the track fades away.

Conclusion

Back From The Dead captures the wild rush of emotion and all the complexities associated with a near brush with mortality. Zak Vortex manages to capture emotions that run the gamut from fear to affection with heart, soul and an authenticity that cannot be denied.

Power Rob - Dark Star

Review by Karl Magi

Overall Album Impressions

Power Rob’s Dark Star explodes with intensity, superb vocal performances, powerful songwriting and energetic motion. This album radiates deep feelings and oozes conviction as the artist makes full use of his excellent voice. When one adds talented guest artists and a sense of real drama, the end result is fiery and engaging.

At the beating heart of Dark Star, we find Power Rob’s vocal performance. He has a voice that is sinewy and broad-ranging, rising from a low growl to a howling cry, conveying everything from tenderness to ferocity. His unique delivery gives the songs life and strength, allowing him to interpret and deliver the lyrics with power.

As a complement to his vocal abilities, Power Rob also demonstrates his skill in crafting lyrics. His distinctive phrasing and descriptive powers convey the emotional core of his songs. He paints vivid imagery through his songwriting and lays out a fresh approach to the world. I enjoy the way he explores his themes in fascinating ways.

I also appreciate Dark Star’s musical background, which enhances the sensations delivered by the vocals and lyrics. A mixture of guitar, synth and sax weaves a lush, interwoven melodic and harmonic tapestry that supports the other elements of the album. On top of this, all of the guest artists contribute their own fresh sound and vision to the whole work.

My Favourite Songs Analyzed

“In The Desert” begins with searing winds blowing and a distantly slipping synth with rounded tones. The drums surge with concentrated power and the gleaming synth spills out a thrilling melody while Power Rob's voice reaches out with unique strength. A jagged synth cuts with shadowy sinew and glittering notes flicker while Power Rob expresses the lyrics with energy and excitement.

The drums erupt as the chorus flies, the synth glowing with sunset luminosity. Night Rider 87’s synth layering is emotive and lush here. Power Rob lets rip with his gripping vocals, pulling me into the story. As a towering synth snarls, the huge drums and bass propel the track. Shining synth cascades as the vocals add emotion and purpose and growling notes slice underneath.

The chorus rises, complemented by lustrous notes that sparkle with muscled beauty. A triumphant synth melody climbs, leaping out with irrepressible dynamism, as the pumping drums and bass drive on. The percussion drops out as a flaring, twirling synth echoes above the dense bass and Power Rob imbues his voice with immense force. Now the song drives toward the end, a scintillating synth irradiating the music as the chorus carries on.

The storyteller can't wait for midnight to face the sands and become legendary. He adds, "Some say it's an obsession. I feel it, I need it." He points out that as they "erase the sunlight," they're locked and loaded while looking for an "ethereal connection."

Our narrator adds that at sunset, they're perfect strangers who are "just living for the danger," as they surrender to faraway thunder. He continues, "When the wind calls upon the neon, at long last I've got the fever," mentioning again that they've surrendered to the distant thunder.

In the desert, the storyteller says that "we can't help it when we fall in love, we can't fight it when we're far apart," as he points out that "with the looks that kill, you better believe it." He goes on to say that "in the desert, it's a mood that takes you to the stars," adding that you never want to be too far "when you've got that thrill."

The narrator continues, saying that he's unable to escape the madness because "you're so far, but yet you seem to be familiar—like I've known you forever." He adds that the starlight they've shared for long nights is "all we've got to get connection until we are together."

Bass glides smoothly as swelling notes glow with delicate light to open “Dangerous”. Blazingly bright synth illuminates the track as Power Rob's immensely expressive voice carries the leaping melody while the drums explode. Power Rob's voice is full of muscle and sinew as the drums continue to press forward.

The chorus breaks outs with flying dynamism as the floating notes in the distance shine and the low end continues to pound. The way in which Power Rob drives the song is fiercely propulsive, drawing me into the song’s excitement. The floating notes in the distance carry a gentler melody as the bass continues to undulate.

There’s a break and a segment exuding peaceful sensations slides in as the vocals drift over the spaced-out background, before the drums return. The chorus flies out with concentrated energy as the pumping low end bangs on, before Power Rob unleashes his voice and the song ends.

On the edge of uncertainty, the narrator questions if he’s alive or out of line. He says, “hold fast” as he faces the fact that some stories never get told. Now strange faces gather, like aliens in a vengeful mob, as the narrator adds, “we are complex people in complex times.”

The storyteller admits he’s only temporary but realises it’s necessary to confront that feeling head-on. There’s danger lurking, but it's part of a game he always plays. When the moment freezes and the heart sinks, it’s “dangerous” but he has confidence that “there’s a way for us.”

Now the narrator swears never to surrender or lie. He talks about holding fast through sleepless nights and being despised. An army waits, staring, as the narrator faces a vicious spectre that won’t leave. He asks if one would face “the menace that gives you pause” or run away. He adds, “stand in the line or stand alone, do or die, you won't atone.” As the song ends, he concludes, “we always seem to make it rain for us.”

“Innocent” starts with a powerful bass rumble and chimes ringing out with piercing light. The drums explode, creating a steadily throbbing pulse as Power Rob’s voice captures mingled desire and excitement, tinged by pain. Power Rob has a feeling for the lyrics that ideally expresses the emotional tenor of the music. The drums and bass continue to rapidly pulse as the metallic chimes flash.

The guitar sings to match the vocals as the muscled drums move and the bass shifts. The drums rapidly rebound as Power Rob lets the lyrics fly with heartfelt expression and a synth twinkles in the distance. The chorus dances with dynamic life as the guitar wheels in active flight. The drums and bass shape the music as the vocals climb with intense feeling, while the guitar adds brightly interlocking notes that carry a galvanizing solo.

Power Rob’s voice aches and gently slips as the silky synth slides before the heavy drums and lush bass pulse again. The chimes radiate light and the guitar mingles with the leaping chorus, carrying the impact of the words. The track comes to an end with impassioned backing vocals and the chorus fading away.

Our storyteller talks about the song's subject, who says that she's alright and it's another night. She says that she's just fine when he's in her sights. He adds that "In the heat of the night, I'm a victim of vice" as he wanders in his desire. He points out that they just can't lie to each other.

The narrator goes on to say that the song's subject claims to have nothing to lose. She says that she "comes alive when we both see the lights." He becomes lost on some nights and "in the heat of the moment, I just can't say" because she keeps the fire in her eyes inside of herself. He adds that with her kiss' sting, he can't decide.

Now our storyteller says that "when the lights go out and the sun comes down" her eyes shout "I'm not innocent." The song's subject points out that she hasn't felt seduction like this before and adds that she has "a thrill that he just can't miss." The storyteller says that as they speak their lies "with the words they spell” their thoughts dwell and lonely hearts fall.

They are both at home with heartbreak, but the narrator adds that "tonight we're alive in eternity," adding that they're just fools "sailing to lose on a river of secrets." The narrator asks the song's subject to take his hand because "our love will last that night and forever."

Delicate notes swirl in tranquil motion as Bending Grid’s guitar flares with luminous life to open “Mr. Right”. Power Rob’s sensual and fascinating vocals carry the desire-laden lyrics and the energetically dancing melody.

The drums and bass punch with crushing weight as the sexy, smooth vocals glide with Power Rob’s unique delivery. Chimes flash with fragile luminosity while the guitar, drums and bass interlock. I am seduced by the potency of the vocals while the low end drives on without stopping. The funky chorus erupts and the guitar adds cool licks and the drums and bass lock into a groove.

As the vocals climb, they're imbued with lust and need. Bending Grid’s guitar flickers out with a charged excitement and Power Rob’s voice explodes with mingled yearning and surprise. As the heavy percussion pulsates, the vocals soar and leap before Bending Grid unleashes his guitar solo, which grabs me with its intensity and depth before the song comes to an end.

Our storyteller is looking for some education to “ease my passion” and a stimulating experience. He says “from the bar, along came trouble” in the form of the song’s subject. He tells her, “Baby, you’re sweet seduction with a hint of vengeance.”

The narrator can’t dance when they get onto the floor, but it’s too late for him. He says, “Such a nervous feeling, I must be dreaming.” He tries to act cool when she tells him what to do, but he asks, “Who knew that I’d fall in love?”

Now our storyteller asks the song’s subject if she realizes he’s not her Mr. Right “when you call me baby.” He asks her, “Don’t you know that I ain’t your big surprise?” However, she still drives him crazy.

Despite it being 3:00 in the morning, the song’s subject says it isn’t too late. The narrator has the sneaking suspicion that she’s not going to leave him. He concludes, “She pressures me so perfectly,” and he’s developed a bad habit “like some voodoo magic.

“Top Gun” leaps into being with Power Rob's voice charging electrically as the drums rap hard. The explosive vocals are full of intense fire as the kick drum batters. The track grooves with angular, gyrating motions as Power Rob's voice matches that swerving energy.

The drums continue to explode while the warmly swelling vocal performance adds irresistible drama. The drums and bass batter and the flashing synth burns through the music with feral light. Power Rob's performance is infectious and pulls me into the music’s spirit.

The drums hit hard as the vocals fly through the music with vigour and flair. Power Rob's range and strength are apparent as a madly spinning synth flickers through a wildly leaping solo. Power Rob chants as the low end smashes hard and the brassy synth ignites the music. The huge drums flutter and the vocals move above the massively shifting low end before silence falls.

Our storyteller has been held in the song subject’s “clever eyes made out of stone” while she spins him “tall tales and promises of love.” It’s midnight and our storyteller says, “I covered your love to a fault.” He points out that the other person is fine and he's out of time. He isn't sure where he's going, but they’ve parted.

There’s something the narrator needs that the song's subject has and he's been fooled by her, but “I’m so starstruck when you make me.” When she sees him there, she can't get enough of him. He loves it when she teases him but adds, “Don’t you know you’re always on the run.” He says he's the top gun and she can't get enough of him, adding, “Baby I love it, can’t you see.”

When they hit the dance floor, the narrator says, “We’re always out for blood and we can’t stop the rhythm.” When he hits the floor, he has to go because “it seems so strong” but the other person has “the modes of ice perfected, she’s so calm and collected.”

Rain pours down and thunder cracks to commence “Restless Summer”. Tranquil, undulating synth slips as the sax calls out with hurting emotion. The woodwind voice is laid-back but creates a painful reflection. Power Rob’s voice is full of longing and need while the sax drifts with emotive depth. Miami Nights 1984 weaves synth magic through the song.

The neediness within the vocals is aching and compels me with its sincerity as the drums pulse. The bass oscillates as metallic, chiming notes spin out while Power Rob captures all of the sensation of loss and brokenhearted feeling within the lyrics. The sax rings out again, expressing love and pain, while the delicate notes below continue to oscillate.

Hard-hitting percussion drives the song forward as the vocals wrap around my ears with gentleness and the sax weeps with intense feeling. The synth continues to slide as the rhythmic heartbeat flutters, the bass undulating while the sax drifts like a ghost. Bright chimes flash again as the lead singer encapsulates all of the melancholy within the words.

The beat surges with determination while Power Rob pours his heart out. Pulsing rhythm underpins chimes that glide with moonlit luminosity, as a gruff, trembling synth adds a yearning quality. In the final moments, the synth solo wheels and dances in the spotlight while the lead singer powers to the finish.

As midnight descends, the song’s subject whispers in the narrator's ear. He says that he's never felt like "my heart is hers to steal." As the walls between them crumble, he admits, "I got it bad," and he knows that she needs him. However, he adds, "When she says don't leave me, understand before we fall apart."

It's a restless summer for our storyteller as he adds that he's "in love with the loss" of the song’s subject. He's giving in and he asks, "Don't you wonder how it all falls apart so soon?" As the walls fall down, he says that he has to make time to "fall too fast" as he realizes that their love isn't meant to last.

“World Gone Mad” comes to life with raging determination and battering power. The vocalist calls out with feral, dramatic energy as the low end smashes hard. The vocals exude forceful danger as the heavy low end is joined by Battlejuice’s assaulting guitar while a luminous synth flashes. The drums are unrelenting as the lead singer calls out, filling me with defiant strength while the trumpeting synth howls above the churning low end.

The vocals snarl as the guitar slashes wildly and the drums continue to pound. Battlejuice imbues the music with rage and muscle as the two performers’ voices intertwine. The drums erupt as the guitar cries out with razor-sharp precision and darkness while the bass shatters and the drums attack. I enjoy the ferocity and uncompromising nature of the song. Colossal bass surges again as the chorus and the guitar join together, shining with a brilliant glare as the track drives to an end.

The narrator says that at daybreak, he can't seem to shake what he’s feeling and “the TV forbids me” as the streets are filled with a “lawless persuasion.” He realizes it’s a military emergency as “the words they crawl across the screen” and the emergency screams at him.

Our storyteller admits he can’t relate because we’re in a “world gone mad” and it’s too late to save it. He wonders, “How will we survive when the sky comes alive?” He feels that he’s tempting fate in this world gone mad as night descends and “terror steps to stand tall” while the old guard is taken on and humanity finds itself “facing down the dragon.”

Cosmically deep bass rumbles as kick drum pulses and metallic notes flare to open “Dark Star”. The ominous pounding continues as gossamer synth floats with a soft melodic pattern. Sharply entangling synth tumbles through the music in a luminous flash as the huge drums rebound. Sebastian Ochoa Arguijo’s guitar slashes with razor-sharp edges as the leaping synth erupts and the drums punch forward.

Power Rob’s voice flows with fresh expression as the intertwining bass twangs and the chorus flies with unstoppable liveliness. Power Rob grabs hold of me and tugs me along with him, the guitar thundering as the drums slam hard. The heaving background charges as the guitar slices and the vocals soar with intensity.

The low end lacerates as the slap bass and entangling, diamond-bright notes tumble together while Power Rob lets rip once again. The explosive vocal melody is joined by the crashing drums and stormy guitar, only deepening the hurricane-like strength of this song. Robbie Whiplash’s drums keep battering as the passionate vocals fly through the music and the guitar charges ferociously. Dynamism erupts from the music as Power Rob cries out with unbound strength.

The slap bass twists as the percussion echoes and chimes shine with lambent luminosity. Sebastian Ochoa Arguijo’s guitar rips again with feral muscle and swirls through a rapidly unfolding solo, arcing with complexity. The drums drive forward as the guitar shreds and spins before Power Rob’s voice hovers with fresh expression. Once again, the chorus floods through the music like a torrent before the song punches to a close.

Our storyteller says that it all started 10 years ago in the dead of night and began with an "evil lie." Now he's stealing shows like a "thief in disguise" and adds, "I'll make them hot when I meet the mic." He says that he'll jam without any superstition and jam because "tonight I let it go." He reminds the audience, "Just remember, I can't surrender."

The narrator goes on to say that he'll jam because he has the motivation and he'll "never ever lose control." He adds that he's made it a long way because "I never say never" and he's coming like a thief in the night. He goes on to say, "Dark Star, hold me close no matter where you are." He adds that he'll live it to the minute.

As the song concludes, our storyteller talks about his feelings being on fire on the floor and he'll "take a chance when thunder strikes" because he's all alone and "I can't see the start."

Conclusion

Dark Star carries the listener on an energy-filled ride punctuated by emotion and expression. The album’s mixture of excellent vocals, well-crafted songs and strong musical backing creates a first-rate listening experience.

Aisle 9 - Paradise Cove

Review by Karl Magi

Overall Album Impressions

Aisle 9’s Paradise Cove explores the many moods and emotions related to the power and beauty of our oceanic world. Water surrounds us and defines us and the artist roves through everything from peaceful beaches to great creatures moving in the deep ocean. His mixture of skillful guitar playing, synth tones, textures and melodies captures the gentleness, danger and beauty of the world’s seas.

Atmosphere is a crucial component on Paradise Cove, as Aisle 9 weaves imagery through sound. The music explores everything from tranquil sensations of floating in tropical warmth to the vast depths below the dark blue of the open ocean. The tracks all expand upon themes of water, shorelines and the inexorable power of the shaping force that covers 70% of our planet.

Aisle 9 demonstrates his high degree of talent and expressive ability on his guitar with Paradise Cove. Sometimes the guitar hovers with jazzy, laid-back vibes and other times it roars and tears like the rising tide. His solos are confident and smoothly complex, while all of the varied guitar tones allow him to dig further into the emotional shadings of each track. When one adds the rich synth layers, the music surrounds me and lifts me like oceanic currents.

Melody also adds an engaging component to the musical mix. The melodies Aisle 9 writes are clear, full of emotion and compulsively listenable. Once again, he voyages through all of the moods and sensations of the seas, carrying the listener along with him as he unfurls his melodic beauty.

My Favourite Tracks Analyzed

“Voyage” comes to life as a rough-edged, gigantically vibrating synth is joined by a guitar which drifts mournfully as the waves wash. Trembling synth moves with hollow, spectral drifts as the ominous bass rumbles. Flickering sounds trip through the music and vibrate while the broad bass growls.

Metallic sounds flicker as the bass pulse adds portentous heft. The haunting guitar planes eerily through the music while the bass adds threatening undertones. Fragile, brilliant notes shiver outward while the guitar drifts slowly, filling me with astral peace and a sense of awe. The sublime bass tumbles below the bell-like synth which illuminates the music before silence falls.

Solidly throbbing drums and gently hovering bass slip past to open “Infinite Ocean”. The drums and bass undulate with rich strength while the glittering synth in the distance shifts slowly. As the music sweeps along, a peaceful indigo quality pours through, as wandering notes tremble. Echoing sounds slip past while swirling synth exhales a sense of respite and wraps around me.

As the endless blue expanse swells and rolls, flickering luminescence skips across the waves, driven by the glimmering synth. The drum beat continues to rebound as widely flowing notes shiver and breathe out while the bass sails along. The drums are sharp and clear as chiming bells float in the ether while the dark tides below extend.

Tranquility pours through the music as the steadying low end shifts. Trailing notes roam with aquatic grace as the smartly ticking drums join the resonant low end. A trembling synth and shining bells flow together with calming ease and silence falls.

Actively rumbling bass pulses and rushes as waves wash in to open “Night Bay.” An ethereal synth drifts, its shining notes carried along by an actively bouncing drumbeat and luscious bass. Brassy bursts cut in rapid succession while an angular guitar trembles through the mix with sharp-edged energy. The drums throb steadily as trumpeting tones flare with a fiery light, the bass driving forward while the guitar hovers at the edges.

The low end cruises on, sweeping sounds glowing tremulously as blazing notes shimmer above. The track softens, floating with aquatic gentleness while the background ripples and elevated tones trip lightly. The bass remains a steady force as the drums dance beneath a funky guitar, carrying a solo that blends enigmatic emotion with soulful energy, haunting yet ultra-cool, before the song closes.

“On The Rocks” begins with massively shifting, broadly bouncing synth and hard-hitting drums as waves surge again. Passionate, wordless vocals cry out over the heavy pulse of the low end. The sax adds a jazzy, groove-laced atmosphere while the guitar glows with laid-back warmth and the bass punches through. The interplay between saxophone and guitar brings a smooth, jazzy edge.

The wordless vocals continue to infuse the track with feeling while the guitar skips along with chilled-out ease and the saxophone lends its reedy, heartfelt voice. The guitar unwinds into a relaxing flow, widely throbbing notes hanging in the air. The vocals flare again in short bursts as the drums guide the track forward.

Rhys Hayward’s slap bass slides in with a laid-back, dance floor pulse while the drums press on. The synth swirls and swerves with layered complexity as the saxophone calls out once more, ardent and alive, the low end propelling everything ahead as the shifting tones fade and the track slips away.

Smoothly trickling water and widely washing synth commence “Paradise Cove”. Heavy bass pulsates as trembling sounds shift through the music and the guitar slips out in a purely peaceful melody, wrapping around me in a sonic blanket. Sensations of cool blue water and a hidden cove, full of beauty and tranquility, fill the music, transporting me with them.

The beat has a strutting pulse as the bending, floating synth trails through the music with tenderness. The entire track exhales gently as the guitar curls through the music and chopped-up vocal samples hauntingly shift. The guitar performance is assured and radiates serenity while the water trickles.

Ticking percussion shapes the music as the thick bass guides it. The guitar hovers again, exuding elegant and easy-going emotion, while the heartbeat of the track throbs on. Slowly unfolding, elevated synth planes through the music while the track fades.

“The Lighthouse” opens with a quickly trembling synth and the sound of ocean waves lapping the shore. Airy tones float into the music as the heavy drums accelerate into a dynamic beat joined by thunderous bass. Breathy sounds exhale as a softly illuminated synth dances, while the guitar carries a melody that feels adventurous yet dreamy as it paints an image of a beautiful lighthouse on a rocky promontory.

A nasal-sounding, warm synth takes the lead with a melody tinged by melancholy despite its active movement. The drums punch heavily as the bass surges and the guitar slides with mournful peace. I’m drawn to the mix of battering power and gentler sounds, especially the roving guitar.

The drums keep battering in a broken beat, delicate notes shimmering as the bass collides. A mysterious quality permeates the melody while the low end heaves with muscle and the guitar sails out, guided by the artist’s skilled fingers. The melody remains enigmatic and tender as the drums strike and the track closes with the nasal synth calling out in dramatic power before fading into silence.

Broadly open sounds move through the background as a sharper, more enveloping synth shines above it to start “Other Worlds”. The drums are ferociously propulsive as glittering notes dance along, carrying a lulling melody that tentatively brushes my ears.

The low end rumbles as the bass glides and the slightly distorted synth carries a dramatic, majestic melody brimming with images of exotic new worlds. A spinning synth circles through the music as the undulating bass and punchy drums add shape. A xylophone-like synth carries a tranquil, floating melody that touches my heart.

Now, an illuminating, expansive synth delivers an enigmatic and melancholy melodic line. Hazy notes hover in the distance as a delicate synth spins out a crystal web and the low end heaves. I am drawn to the main melody’s mysterious quality as the track ends on an almost reggae-like beat, with the drums fading away.

“Nine Fathoms Deep” begins as xylophone-like notes echo along with a nervously surging synth and heavily hitting drums. Guitar churns while a majestic and slightly intimidating melody drifts.

The guitar entangles in a glassy-smooth, soothing line as the drum and bass pulse is joined by heavier guitar. The distantly floating, metallic notes hover, their tenderly caressing melody in contrast to the heavy low end. The guitar slips out, breathing with unbroken softness while the heaviness below adds balance.

I enjoy the layered effect of the music here while the heavy drums and bass thunder and arpeggios twist. Nobility exudes from the elevated synth which pours out crystalline illumination as the guitar continues to snarl.

The drums cruise as dancing arpeggios create whirling motion and the background synth enfolds my ears. A bubbling synth ripples as the high notes hover and the low end growls before the track concludes.

“Falling Tides” starts as a brightly tremulous synthesizer moves in a misty flow above cleanly ticking drums and dense bass. The drums add lushness as they throb along with the tides of bass that flow. Above them, gleaming notes unwind in a smoothly sailing line, sparkling like a sun-dappled ocean. The drums are a solid presence as the ethereal synthesizer descends in a veil.

A xylophone with rich depth calls out, full of serenity and strength, as round-sounding synthesizer pulses shift. The towering drums pulsate as tightly wound notes move outward. Expanding chords in the background move with the jazz organ that shivers with warming calm. The drums continue to shape the music as the synthesizer floats. I am carried away on the shining musical tide, floating in its depths.

The drums continue to guide the music as brilliantly flashing sounds spread outward. The music swells up around me, shot through with light and darkness, peace and hidden sadness. Now a nasal-sounding synthesizer with a sharp edge skips through the music and the track closes on a single exhalation.

Angular, sharply heaving notes move with brighter synth and tripping strings to commence “Leviathan”. The low end surges with tidal power as the slicing, towering synth creates a steady heartbeat. Washing notes glide as chopped-up vocal sounds trip through the music above the tremendously pulsating low end, while nervously shining synth is sliced by radiant strings.

The sense of a great creature moving with barely restrained power permeates the music here as the huge size and gliding motion combine. The low end growls, waiting, while the staccato vocal sounds flow and the track moves into a segment in which planing notes move with oceanic force, broken by blinding light that leaps and fades.

Below the other musical elements, waves rumble and the choppy vocal pattern moves again above the continually driving low end. The drums burst while the chanting sound floats and metallic tones drift above the heavy bass and then the track ends.

Conclusion

Paradise Cove expresses the intense connection humanity has to the sea. The mixture of power, grace and aquatic flow transports me to other realms and imbues me with a plethora of complex feelings as it unfolds.