By Rick Shithouse
The concept release is something I dearly love to take in as a sumptuous feast of synthual delights, a full multiple course affair that creates something new and something special. There's been many noteworthy concept releases over the last year or so, particularly Jon Of The Shred's Scythe project, C-Jeff's Big Steel Wheels and Protector 101's Wastelands spring to mind as masterworks in realising a concept, but many, many EP's have done so on a smaller scale as well as full albums.
Scale is the word I'd like to really concentrate on here. The scale of the project in a concept album in 2014 opens up an incredible amount of avenues for creativity outside of the music alone and Shio-Z has pushed himself to the limits with his endeavour for this year: The Z Machinery. More than just an album that explores a thematic the Z Machinery is a structured idea and story that covers video, writing and music in a cross-media way that really expands the scope for what is possible in taking 80s inspired synth music into a whole new galaxies of possibilities.
As I mentioned there have been numerous kick arse concept releases over the last year and when I've gotten a little back story from the producers themselves and learned more about it there always seems to be concessions made that reduce the original vision. Be it constraints on time, resources or just plan bad luck it is seldom evidenced that producer releases a concept album that is a mirror of their original vision. I've not talked to Shio-Z about the Z Machinery directly and I may be incorrect in assuming it fulfils his original vision, but holy cow; he must be very, very content with what has been released as final product.
In fact, 'final product' is really probably a rather misguided term as the product itself promises and delivers so much that there is still a lot of the Z Machinery's story that can be expanded upon. What we have in this album is an introduction to the entire idea with back stories and explanations and then we're left awaiting what could happen next. That isn't to say this isn't a fully explored and complete experience, as it really is, but the ideas that Shio-Z introduces us to over the course of the multi pronged multimedia attack really opens things up for a new world for the Shio-Z experience to exist in.
If you are entirely new to this project I highly advise watching all of the videos contained on Shio-Z's site for the Z Machinery here. The videos are all marvellous tools for explaining the theories and ideas behind the Z Machinery itself and will put you in good stead for listening to the album. But before we get to the album watching at least this video is a must:
The crux of the concept is a new technology that acts as a way to see future events that then can be changed via the Z Machinery. This is wonderfully explored via the videos and sets up an incredibly wide range of possibilities for future episodes, but that is something we'll have to wait and discover more of in 2015. For now the first pillar of the Z Machinery is an album of the same name and it is a hugely rewarding and wild ride into the science fiction fantasies made music by Shio-Z.
The whole point of a concept album, from the listener's perspective, is to be told a story that over arches the entire record. This is a simplistic definition but it's really about how complex or simplistic the story is; and the more detailed the story the higher the chance of losing coherence and direction. Over the twelve tracks of the Z-Machinery we're taken into a story that covers a vast amount of concepts and musical styles but the coherence is always maintained. There are motif's throughout the album that tie all the pieces together incredibly well and makes the tracks all feel like they're cut from the same cloth even though on the surface the material can sometimes differ immeasurably.
That is really due to the craftsmanship of Shio-Z himself. Each track explores a new facet of the story, with later tracks harkening back to previous ideas while continuing in new directions. The use of his own vocal talents along with Synthetix.FM favourite Who Ha and previous Shio-Z chanteuse Claudia Ortolani gives a human side to the story and through other voices and make the cohesiveness between the tracks, somehow, even stronger. The sum of the parts are certainly much greater than the individual tracks but all of them stand up as wonderfully clear episodic pieces in their own right. No corners have been cut on the songwriting, production or creativity and that is what shines through every second of the album. One thing I highly recommend for those listening to the record in the favourite music player is to set the album to 'gapless play' as many of the pieces directly follow on from each other seamlessly.
The epic nature of the Z Machinery begins with the opening track 'In Some Nowhere'. As one of the more soundtrack oriented pieces this sets a wonderfully inquisitive tone with darker aspects looming behind the synths. The atmosphere then gets rocked with the powerhouse 'The Secret Lab' as huge basslines drive dramatic melodic passages. The tone of the instruments is so crisp and clean throughout this album and the inclusion of strings and other varied sounds later makes for an always involving, evolving and intriguing synthscape.
With 'A New Machine Is Born' Shio-Z really unleashes some rockin of epic proportions as the guitars crunch onto the scene for the first time. I can't help but be reminded of Patrick Cowley's classic 'Megatron Man' in the guitar track which totally rocks hard and the story is transported into its next phase superbly well. This then opens up into one of the real highlights on the record for me with 'Engage' featuring Who Ha. The use of Who Ha's very individual vocal style amid the thumping percussion and dialogue samples is thoroughly engaging and the chorus just kills in megaton overdoses of radness.
The atmospheric tracks on Z Machinery punctuate much of the scientific theories through repeated refrains done in different instruments, such as on the grandiose 'Particle Collision Pt 1' which introduces clean natural piano sounds and even a hint of xylophone to the synthscape as the Z Machinery gears up to enact its own science defying magic against a sparkling space synth background. 'Chaos Theory' finds Shio-Z himself on vocal duties in one of the darker pieces on the album. His style reminds me of a cross between David Gahan and the late Peter Steele with the emotional depth and tortured, yearning tone felt through each lyric. A more morose angle is given to this side of the story as moral implications begin to enter the scope.
The tempo rises and the high energy OutRun styled 'Cyclotronic Velocity' bursts into focus with fervour and passion. The synths speed and weave in and out guitars before taking an evolutionary step into a harp form, replete with backing string section. The crossing over from one world and dimension to another has begun. Looking back is no longer and option, a new era begins. Returning once again to Shio-Z's roster is the ever talented Claudia Ortolani in the follow up titled 'Fahrenheit'. The drama and cutting vocals perfectly complete the Spacy/Italo based music and turns into a magnificently well developed pop track. The sharpness of the orchestral stabs just adds even more to the authenticity.
'Particle Collision Pt 2' brings back a smoother atmosphere as Shio-Z takes time to explore his new creation. The track moves into a totally killer upbeat bass driven disco masterpiece that channels vintage sounds and moods and adds just enough modernity to the synthscape. Ideas are full of energy and positivity with an air of jubilation permeating the atmosphere. 'How It Works (Professor Shiozawa Explains' then takes the listener into the mind of the Z Machinery's creator with a passage that reminds me a great deal of Pink Floyd's progressions, really adding an immeasurable presence to the experience.
The full power of the 'Z Machinery' is brought to bear in this title track the expand the scope even further with mixtures of 70s progressive sounds mixing with dramatic synths and OutRun energies to rock you all the right ways. The guitar and synth accents built into this track are especially impressive as the excitement builds with each passing second. The final track for the album takes on the role of closing one door and opening another as the consequences of the Z Machinery being to be understood and its ramifications for the future are brought into question. To complement the ending of this part of the story we're treated to another kick arse guitar and synth driven anthem that piles on the excitement with chapter after chapter perfectly orchestrated rockin.
With the finish of this final track one is left basking in the glow of the Z Machinery's seemingly endless power and one just can't wait to see what happens next. This record sets an absolutely perfect stage from which I hope Shio-Z continues to tell this story from. The vast scope for this album and its realisation is something that is wonderful to experience. To take all these pieces of information Shio-Z has used to set-up this story and then be able to experience it first hand via this record is really very special indeed. This release should be supported by a great many people in and out of 80s inspired synth scene as it has truly massive crossover appeal in it's subject matter and the media employed.
Telefuture Records presents Shio-Z's Z Machinery album on their Bandcamp page here. This is absolutely a Synthetix Reference Experience and the amount of effort Shio-Z has put into this production becomes immediately evident from the first track on the album, even as a stand-alone record without the killer science fiction story backing it up this album is a very important and perfectly executed journey through a myriad of vintage synthscapes and is brimming over with new creative ideas. In the Z Machinery Shio-Z has created something that I hope continues and grows as not even the sky is the limit for where this concept could go.
Showing posts with label Shio-Z. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Shio-Z. Show all posts
Tuesday, December 2, 2014
Saturday, February 1, 2014
Synthetix Second Anniversary Weekend Update
The 3rd of February marks the second birthday for Synthetix.FM. Two years ago I started this venture and it pleases me greatly to witness such a marked growth in the scene I write about. Music, by it's nature, is evolutionary. New influences and inspirations shape the music and these new muses take things into new directions. When I began this journey the concept of Carpenter Brut/Perturbator/Gost's Slash Electro was unheard of. The amount of music coming out now with guitar and saxophone tracks figuring prominently were almost non-existant, in 2014 this no longer the case. Now vocals are finally becoming a staple to many 80s inspired genres as opposed to only being a novelty. And most importantly the numbers of fans and producers is growing every day.
So I'd like to thank every single fan and producer in the scene for making it what it is today. Synthetix.FM is merely a reflection of the people that make all the magic happen and to every producer and devotee of 80s inspired synth sounds I raise a glass and toast you all for making my favourite music into a sustainable movement, and here's to many more years of rockin the raddest tunes.
The third year ahead for Synthetix.FM is going to be an evolutionary one too, I hope, as the audience grows I hope to always remain relevant and in step with all the most rockin happenings in the scene.
Just as bit of a plug before we get into this week's Weekend Update I was interviewed this past week on Atomic Leg Drop Zine. This was a lot of fun and goes through some of the history of Synthetix.FM and the scene in general. I hope it provides some insight, especially for those new the music. Many thanks to Salvador at Atomic Leg Drop for affording me this opportunity.
Time get down to the business end of things now with the three hundred and forty fourth post on Synthetix.FM; the second anniversary Weekend Update!
Where a better place to start a special Weekend Update than with a kick arse new tune from one of my favourite producers: LA Dreams. 'Ready To Rumble' is a high speed thrill ride into synthtastic excitement. Perfectly written and positively shining in LA Dreams gloss brilliance.
The UK's Arc Neon are back in action with a kick arse new track from their upcoming Technicolor Workout EP due out February 15th. 'The Heat Of The Night' features the vocals of Dana Jean Phoenix and some absolutely sleazed out guitars amid sensually caressing synths and a warm, basking afterglow of sultry sax. This is a very promising new synthscape for Arc Neon and I'm really looking forward to the full EP release later in the month. For now you can get your own copy of 'Heat Of The Night' for FREE via Arc Neon's Bandcamp page here.
I always find Cougar Synth's music deeply emotionally, beyond the chords and arrangements there is always an underlying affection that seems to power each of their musical love letters. 'A Somewhere Place' is classic Cougar Synth with vastly spatial synthscapes contrasted with intimate beauty. This is currently available for FREE download, but I don't see a Download button on the new Soundcloud player, so you may have to view the track on soundcloud to get the Download button rockin.
Obliterating the atmosphere in a nanosecond is the high voltage new track from Perturbator aptly titled 'She Moves Like A Knife'. If the high speed drum track wasn't enough to get your pulse racing the then stabbing synth melodies will be sure to open an artery. The Perturbator ferocity is rockin to the max throughout this piece, but the beauty of the melodies provide that glorious 80s homage. This track is currently available for FREE download.
A rockin new collaboration between Robert Parker and Waveshaper is up next. 'Modern Technology' is a smoothly constructed odyssey into synth dimensions of the raddest rockin. This track is available for purchase off Bandcamp here, and also check out the killer photo shoot done for this project by Joakim Reimer on Facebook here.
Python Blue keeps rockin all the right ways as his musical journeys into 80s pleasures continues. His latest piece entitled 'Clouds' takes this producer into the stratosphere with a lightness to the synthscape not usually present in his work. As always the narrative is beautifully constructed and explored, one of Python Blue's hallmarks of quality. You can pick up your own copy of 'Clouds' via the link in the player, which I highly encourage.
After a great teaser campaign through Facebook, Plaisance has just released his new two track EP and it delivers on every level. This time around Plaisance has added the vocal talents of Claudia Ortolani and Patrick 'Shio-Z' Rizzi to the mix and the two resulting songs are rockin the Italo Synth magic from beginning to end. This project, delightfully titled Elle & Lui, is all about the feminine and the masculine, working in a balance and partnership. The vocals of Claudia Ortolani channel a little bit of Stevie Nicks and a whole a tonne of 80s Italo in a wonderful performance. The music on 'Same Road, Different Ways' definitely shows Plaisance's song writing is evolving rather majestically.
This evolution continues into the second track 'The Three Elements'. Patrick Rizzi's deep and tortured vocals are spectacular while Plaisance's music takes on a more dramatic turn also. The marching drums and passionate melodies are arranged majestically and the chorus is an explosion of synthual desires. Both sides of Elle & Lui are rockin to the max and the EP is available at name-your-own-price point via the link in the player.
One producer who always has the magic touch for making melodies bounce and emotions climb skywards is Rain Sword and his latest track is another beautifully uplifting composition. 'Dance All Night' is rife with catchy hooks and buttery smooth 80s love. Solid gold from beginning to end. This is currently available for FREE download also.
Marshall Bravestar is a new producer on the scene who's direct inspiration is, unsurprisingly, the wondrous world of 80s saturday morning cartoons. The synthscape on 'Speed Of A Puma' certainly has a flair for the dramatic and each layer adds more presence and depth to the narrative. I think this producer is still finding his way but this track is definitely kicking much arse. You can pick up a copy of this piece on his Bandcamp page here at a name-your-own-price point.
Another producer new to Synthetix.FM is Mosaik. Hailing from Sweden and also heavily influenced by Sweden's own Mitch Murder; Mosaik is definitely rockin hard in his new track 'Sky Fighter'. The production is as slick an F-14A Tomcat and cuts through the air with equal grace and dexterity. Mosaik explores the narrative extremely well and keeps the excitement levels at fever pitch through out. Many thanks to Project Friday for enlightening me to the Mosaik magic.
A new piece of beautiful music next from RF Extreme with his new experience 'A Time To Remember'. This is yet another soulful piece of extraordinary Synth Romance from this talented producer. Melodies shine like diamonds and each passage intimates deeper and deeper emotional investment.
Replacing love with vengeance is 'Filthy Streets' the powerhouse new jam from Bixby Snyder. Building like a tsunami and crushing with devastating force each chapter of this Slash Electro diatribe is punctuated by some totally brutal percussion. The extreme swell of the music is likely to cause the bends for those uninitiated to such synthscapes but it's the beauty of the melodies that are intoxicatingly irresistible.
Alpha Boy's new album came out while Synthetix.FM was on holidays and due to time constraints I don't have the opportunity to review properly but as Alpha Boy recently shared the magnificent 'Electric Popping' off Laser Vision I thought it was a prime opportunity to give it some love. This Eletro Breakin gem is full of hot rockin action and befits Alpha Boys 'call and response' natured melodies perfectly. Be sure to check out the full album on Bandcamp here. It's yet another strong release from this scene legend and displays some very interesting new ideas for the composer particularly on the beautifully elegant 'Carnegie Hall' and 'Vision' tracks and the sumptuously sparse early 80s electro synth of 'Collision'.
Rockin the purest of Italo Disco Synth gold is Mario Moretti with his hot new rocker 'Spaziotempo'. Pitch perfect basslines and magical melodies are woven into radical dancefloor anthem. The layering is sublimely implemented as each new element melds likes coloured molten glass to the existing structures. You can purchase this track on the full release by Bordello A Parigi's site here.
Taking things back to the depths of the shadows is Flash Arnold with his brand new epic 'The Outbreak'. This is a pure Dark Synth adventure full twists and turns of terror. with fear and excitement going hand in hand. The production accentuates the passages exceedingly well and the story is explored to it's final gory end delightfully well. You can pick up a copy of this off Flash Arnold's Bandcamp here, at a name-your-own-price point.
Another producer who released a great record while Synthetix.FM was on holiday was Dan Terminus. His debut album, The Darkest Benthic Division LP was released on Werkstatt Recording in numerous formats and is a totally kick arse experience in the darker arts of Soundtrack Synth. The entire album tells a riveting story and creates a vice like grip that is impossible to escape from. Be sure to pick up a copy here, if you can handle the intensity! For those of weaker constitutions perhaps only one track is all you can bear of Dan Terminus's catastrophic creations? 'Tokamak' is the new one from Dan Terminus and continues down the path of no return with sinister symphonies and morose movements guiding you into a living nightmare.
Our final piece on this anniversary Weekend Update is the brilliant new promo video for the new Nightcrawler album. Welcome To Metropolis: The Last City On Earth is a very impressive visual piece that sets my anticipation levels to fever pitch. Due out February 10, we don't have too long to wait!
Nightcrawler Metropolis (Official Trailer) from Nightcrawler on Vimeo.
That does us for the anniversary Weekend Update on Synthetix.FM, thanks for supporting Synthetix.FM over the last two years, let's make the next one even radder. I'll be back during the week with more action from the 80s inspired synth scene. 'Til then, stay 80s and keep on rockin.
Where a better place to start a special Weekend Update than with a kick arse new tune from one of my favourite producers: LA Dreams. 'Ready To Rumble' is a high speed thrill ride into synthtastic excitement. Perfectly written and positively shining in LA Dreams gloss brilliance.
The UK's Arc Neon are back in action with a kick arse new track from their upcoming Technicolor Workout EP due out February 15th. 'The Heat Of The Night' features the vocals of Dana Jean Phoenix and some absolutely sleazed out guitars amid sensually caressing synths and a warm, basking afterglow of sultry sax. This is a very promising new synthscape for Arc Neon and I'm really looking forward to the full EP release later in the month. For now you can get your own copy of 'Heat Of The Night' for FREE via Arc Neon's Bandcamp page here.
I always find Cougar Synth's music deeply emotionally, beyond the chords and arrangements there is always an underlying affection that seems to power each of their musical love letters. 'A Somewhere Place' is classic Cougar Synth with vastly spatial synthscapes contrasted with intimate beauty. This is currently available for FREE download, but I don't see a Download button on the new Soundcloud player, so you may have to view the track on soundcloud to get the Download button rockin.
Obliterating the atmosphere in a nanosecond is the high voltage new track from Perturbator aptly titled 'She Moves Like A Knife'. If the high speed drum track wasn't enough to get your pulse racing the then stabbing synth melodies will be sure to open an artery. The Perturbator ferocity is rockin to the max throughout this piece, but the beauty of the melodies provide that glorious 80s homage. This track is currently available for FREE download.
A rockin new collaboration between Robert Parker and Waveshaper is up next. 'Modern Technology' is a smoothly constructed odyssey into synth dimensions of the raddest rockin. This track is available for purchase off Bandcamp here, and also check out the killer photo shoot done for this project by Joakim Reimer on Facebook here.
Python Blue keeps rockin all the right ways as his musical journeys into 80s pleasures continues. His latest piece entitled 'Clouds' takes this producer into the stratosphere with a lightness to the synthscape not usually present in his work. As always the narrative is beautifully constructed and explored, one of Python Blue's hallmarks of quality. You can pick up your own copy of 'Clouds' via the link in the player, which I highly encourage.
After a great teaser campaign through Facebook, Plaisance has just released his new two track EP and it delivers on every level. This time around Plaisance has added the vocal talents of Claudia Ortolani and Patrick 'Shio-Z' Rizzi to the mix and the two resulting songs are rockin the Italo Synth magic from beginning to end. This project, delightfully titled Elle & Lui, is all about the feminine and the masculine, working in a balance and partnership. The vocals of Claudia Ortolani channel a little bit of Stevie Nicks and a whole a tonne of 80s Italo in a wonderful performance. The music on 'Same Road, Different Ways' definitely shows Plaisance's song writing is evolving rather majestically.
This evolution continues into the second track 'The Three Elements'. Patrick Rizzi's deep and tortured vocals are spectacular while Plaisance's music takes on a more dramatic turn also. The marching drums and passionate melodies are arranged majestically and the chorus is an explosion of synthual desires. Both sides of Elle & Lui are rockin to the max and the EP is available at name-your-own-price point via the link in the player.
One producer who always has the magic touch for making melodies bounce and emotions climb skywards is Rain Sword and his latest track is another beautifully uplifting composition. 'Dance All Night' is rife with catchy hooks and buttery smooth 80s love. Solid gold from beginning to end. This is currently available for FREE download also.
Marshall Bravestar is a new producer on the scene who's direct inspiration is, unsurprisingly, the wondrous world of 80s saturday morning cartoons. The synthscape on 'Speed Of A Puma' certainly has a flair for the dramatic and each layer adds more presence and depth to the narrative. I think this producer is still finding his way but this track is definitely kicking much arse. You can pick up a copy of this piece on his Bandcamp page here at a name-your-own-price point.
Another producer new to Synthetix.FM is Mosaik. Hailing from Sweden and also heavily influenced by Sweden's own Mitch Murder; Mosaik is definitely rockin hard in his new track 'Sky Fighter'. The production is as slick an F-14A Tomcat and cuts through the air with equal grace and dexterity. Mosaik explores the narrative extremely well and keeps the excitement levels at fever pitch through out. Many thanks to Project Friday for enlightening me to the Mosaik magic.
A new piece of beautiful music next from RF Extreme with his new experience 'A Time To Remember'. This is yet another soulful piece of extraordinary Synth Romance from this talented producer. Melodies shine like diamonds and each passage intimates deeper and deeper emotional investment.
Replacing love with vengeance is 'Filthy Streets' the powerhouse new jam from Bixby Snyder. Building like a tsunami and crushing with devastating force each chapter of this Slash Electro diatribe is punctuated by some totally brutal percussion. The extreme swell of the music is likely to cause the bends for those uninitiated to such synthscapes but it's the beauty of the melodies that are intoxicatingly irresistible.
Alpha Boy's new album came out while Synthetix.FM was on holidays and due to time constraints I don't have the opportunity to review properly but as Alpha Boy recently shared the magnificent 'Electric Popping' off Laser Vision I thought it was a prime opportunity to give it some love. This Eletro Breakin gem is full of hot rockin action and befits Alpha Boys 'call and response' natured melodies perfectly. Be sure to check out the full album on Bandcamp here. It's yet another strong release from this scene legend and displays some very interesting new ideas for the composer particularly on the beautifully elegant 'Carnegie Hall' and 'Vision' tracks and the sumptuously sparse early 80s electro synth of 'Collision'.
Rockin the purest of Italo Disco Synth gold is Mario Moretti with his hot new rocker 'Spaziotempo'. Pitch perfect basslines and magical melodies are woven into radical dancefloor anthem. The layering is sublimely implemented as each new element melds likes coloured molten glass to the existing structures. You can purchase this track on the full release by Bordello A Parigi's site here.
Taking things back to the depths of the shadows is Flash Arnold with his brand new epic 'The Outbreak'. This is a pure Dark Synth adventure full twists and turns of terror. with fear and excitement going hand in hand. The production accentuates the passages exceedingly well and the story is explored to it's final gory end delightfully well. You can pick up a copy of this off Flash Arnold's Bandcamp here, at a name-your-own-price point.
Another producer who released a great record while Synthetix.FM was on holiday was Dan Terminus. His debut album, The Darkest Benthic Division LP was released on Werkstatt Recording in numerous formats and is a totally kick arse experience in the darker arts of Soundtrack Synth. The entire album tells a riveting story and creates a vice like grip that is impossible to escape from. Be sure to pick up a copy here, if you can handle the intensity! For those of weaker constitutions perhaps only one track is all you can bear of Dan Terminus's catastrophic creations? 'Tokamak' is the new one from Dan Terminus and continues down the path of no return with sinister symphonies and morose movements guiding you into a living nightmare.
Our final piece on this anniversary Weekend Update is the brilliant new promo video for the new Nightcrawler album. Welcome To Metropolis: The Last City On Earth is a very impressive visual piece that sets my anticipation levels to fever pitch. Due out February 10, we don't have too long to wait!
Nightcrawler Metropolis (Official Trailer) from Nightcrawler on Vimeo.
That does us for the anniversary Weekend Update on Synthetix.FM, thanks for supporting Synthetix.FM over the last two years, let's make the next one even radder. I'll be back during the week with more action from the 80s inspired synth scene. 'Til then, stay 80s and keep on rockin.
Wednesday, October 2, 2013
Shio-Z Imparts The Science Of The Night
Shio-Z has been rather prolific in 2013 with his collaborative work with artists like Plaisance and Vincenzo Salvia. His style seems very muse-like in his ability to conjure new ideas and directions for others and with his new full length album he's allowed that muse to shine over ten original tracks. The Shio-Z experience has it's own personality and crosses many themes and styles in it's journey.
The ten tracks on Science Of The Night move from traditional synthscapes into hybrid atmospheres of tones and colours. There is no doubt this album is drenched in 80s love, and that shines through in every track, however the full Shio-Z sound incorporates many avant garde/cyber-tech elements that create a futuristic air to all his pieces. The familiar and alien blend into a melange of futurism and nostalgia which is a delight to be in the presence of.
The Science Of The Night opens with a haunting instrumental entitled 'Night Flight'. The scene is set for interplanetary contact as non terrestrial tones are form a blinking light pattern of that signals to life in a distant galaxy a message beyond humanity's comprehension. Melodies are built with clean and powerful strokes that are full of inquisitive instrumentations and gravity defying percussion. The mood of 'Night Flight' is completely adventurous and bold in presentation and this idea is continued in track two 'Goodbye On Night'.
This second chapter is a heady mix of cosmic italo and heavy dimensional elements mixed at a languid pace that rocks and rolls with the flow of the galaxies above. 'Goodbye On Night' is a classic example of the Shio-Z experience in all it's interplanetary glory with our earthly italo making creative combinations with sentient life from other worlds.
The Shio-Z experiences of late have been incorporating more vocals into the synthscapes and track three introduces the first of these with 'Italo Night'. There's a superb European machismo to Shio-Z's vocals, but there are elements of tortured, unrequited affection that seems to provide a great undercurrent to the lyrics. The music in 'Italo Night' compliments this style of vocal wonderfully well as Shio-Z pleads his lust to the night on a cosmic dance floor orbiting a sun that can't warm a cold heart.
The sparkling italo gold continues into the next track, 'Night Dancing'. Melodically perfect, this takes traditional italo structures and breaks them down into baser forms that are then rebuilt by alien robots and formed into a universal energy of star powered beauty. It's on this track especially that the Shio-Z production really begins to stand and define itself as different worlds join as one and rock the galactic disco through aeons of night.
When it comes to the other sides of Shio-Z one needs only look to 'Nightmare' to experience the darker forces at play in this composer's creative process. Dramatic arrangements are injected with panic and sinister forces but the action is held tightly within the Shio-Z synthscape and the sounds of distant alien life pulse within the distraught earthbound constraints of humanity. There is hope forged from this experience in the much brighter 'Starry Night' which takes the panic and replaces it with intense exploration of incredible new ideas. The absolutely pounding percussive track combined with the delicate background piano in this piece is enlightening on every level and adds fathomless depth to the narrative of the composition.
'Hero Of The Night' rocks into view next and this anthemic chug-a-thon is tempered by the fires of passion and vengeance. The melodies sweep and dive while the engine room powers along in unstoppable force of synthual brilliance. The layers of sound introduced in the final parts of this experience add even more interstellar flavour to the story and it's final refrain is full of juggernaut momentum. Definitely the most brutal track on the album it is then followed by the highly entertaining 'One Night In Romagna'. The twisted vocals and ultra catchy melodies highlight another side of Shio-Z that is wholly endearing and absolutely hilarious. It's great to see that Shio-Z knows he's a rockstar but he also knows having fun is just as important.
More nocturnal adventures are explored in 'Tears Of The Night' which is possibly the most 'traditionally' formed track on the album. Stunning synth melodies are nurtured with love and passion in arrangements that feel devoid of the alien elements previously experienced. This track is full of humanity and emotion and it's position on the album adds even more weight to it's reflective and contemplative nature.
The grand finale of Science Of The Night is another space italo gem titled 'Space Night Girl'. The synthscape is clear and sparkling with refractive melodies that dance with crystalline clarity. Without a doubt its the thumping bassline that ties this experience together and in the process allows these delicate melodies to exist in fragile beauty that is entrancing and inspiring.
Shio-Z's musical journey continues into genuinely individualised worlds of his own creation on Science Of The Night. His experimentation combined with his experiences working with others has made for a massively entertaining record and sound matures with each new release. The thematic vision of this record is what shines the brightest, however, and I think Shio-Z has a massively promising future in the universe of evolved 80s sounds.
Future City Records presents Shio-Z's Science Of The Night album on their Bandcamp page here and Synthetix.FM very highly recommends this album to all fans of 80s synth who look to the stars for inspiration and possibilities and yearn for the excitement of these hidden other worlds. Through Shio-Z's music you'll feel the power of the cosmos and it's inhabitants rockin hard every night to his italo flavoured space synth jams in planets and dimensions far beyond or earthly bonds.
Saturday, September 7, 2013
Synthetix Weekend Update
All the planets must be in alignment this past week as a whole ensemble of 80s synth heavy hitters have shared brand new music in an onslaught of pink neon explosiveness. September is going to be a big month for EP and album releases, so keep your internet dial tuned to Synthetix.FM for all the radness a rocker can bear.
One of the great things currently happening in the 80s inspired synth scene is people stepping up and doing their thing to spread the word. As I mentioned in the Protector 101post I did this week Andy Synth is doing a fantastic new shows called Beyond Synth. Andy's already done interviews with Who Ha, Ogre Sound and Vincenzo Salvia, as well as the aforementioned session with Protector 101. The interviews as informal and relaxed and make for very entertaining listening.
Also stepping up is 80s synth scene mainstay BenniMushu and his new show on KFAI radio, Synth Waves. Anyone who's been active in the scene over the last few years will recognise BenniMushu as one of the most ardent and loyal fans of 80s inspired synth music on soundcloud. Now that he has his own radio show he's doing interviews and playing the hottest rockin tunes.
These two rockers will hopefully fill the void for quality interviews with all the great producers in the scene. I had intended for Synthetix.FM to do more interviews, as I've done in the past, but the workload on here has meant I've not been able to devote nearly enough time to doing them to a standard I'm happy with. I always hoped that other rockers would stand up and take on that role and now with at least two sites doing podcast style interviews this should provide a huge amount of good times and great rock'n'roll for those fans, like myself, who want to know more about the scene's raddest talent.
Let's get down to business with some solid gold tunes that are sure to make your days brighter and your nights hotter with the new Weekend Update on Synthetix.FM!
First up is another great track from Pumping Body with 'Young Untouchable'. This Polish producer is really weaving some great 80s magic in his music and this latest track is no exception. Upbeat melodies and punchy percussion set moods to exciting, with a chance of romance. Currently available for FREE download too.
Even though Dance With The Dead pushed their full length album release back to sometime this month they're still making sure we know what we're going to be in for and that, most importantly, it'll be well worth the wait. In their latest demo, 'Xenon', the duo once again combine the danceability of high energy OutRun with the darker sides of Giallo Disco. As always the arrangements create an incredibly deep narrative that thrills and chills it's way into your soul.
It's always going to be a red letter day when theres new Photosynthesi music around and this new track certainly reinforces this. 'Out Of The Blue' is full of cascading melodies and azure vistas full of cresting waves and breezy synths; you'll need to put your sunglasses on for maximum effect. This track is also and exclusive to the new episode KFAI's Synth Waves show.
It's great to see Les Chic Voltage is back and rockin the scene more frequently of late. His latest work is a slow burning synth adventure called 'Fresh Dub 82'. Containing some massive drums and dub elements he ties it all together with some totally tubular 80s melodies that make the entire experience a magical affair. Currently available for FREE download too.
80s Stallone dropped not one but two super cool tracks this week. Both are inspiring and full of 80s love and passion and I found myself in quite a quandary as to which one I enjoyed the most. I think 'Heavyweight' has a slightly richer story but 'Comeback' has a charm that is undeniable. The solution? Heres 'Heavyweight' and heres 'Comeback' so rock em both loud and proud!
Moustache Machine unleashed the spectacular 'Mission Control' this week ans I'm still feeling the aftershocks. The build on this track is totally kick arse and the nods to OutRun and Italo sounds throughout the adventure is as rockin as it is riveting. Also available currently for FREE download.
In what promises to be one hell of a synthscapade through many dimensions is the new full length record form Shio-Z. The preview he has posted covers a massive amount of territory and each track definitely piques my interest and makes me hunger for more. We don't have to wait long for this album's release though as it's released date is only a few days away on the 10th of September, but you can start getting excited right now!
The big hits just keep on coming and they don't get much bigger than STARFORCE's new single. 'Alpine Glow Part II' is a sequel to one of the most popular tracks off their last album Ominiversal Oscillations and it continues the ideas and emotions forged in the original to wondrous new evolutions.
It's an awe inspiring experience with a grandeur and class that is irrepressible. This epic is currently available for FREE download too, so get it rockin ASAP!
I honestly find it hard to put into words just how much I love Sternrekorder's music. Every time I get to post a new track by this amazing producer I seem to find it that little bit harder to convey just how hard his music rocks. In his latest track 'Duesenjaeger' we have yet another glorious ride into a fanciful wonderland of shimmering brilliance and beautiful synthscapes. Magnificent!
Funk synth rockers Jupiter Gang are back with a kickin new tune called 'The Escape'. I find this act one of the most exciting in this field of 80s synth as there seems to be a completely lucid understanding of the genre in their music. I can just see Morris Day & The Time marching up and down the stage to this with synths in hand and bad intentions on their minds. Also available for FREE download!
Another massive release in the offing is a new album from scene legend FM Attack. This exciting new release promises a huge amount of glowing 80s love done with that touch of modernity. There are currently five preview tracks available for your early indulgence on FM Attack's soundcloud here but I couldn't resist sharing 'Magic' featuring the inimitable premier chanteuse of the 80s inspired synth scene Kristine on vocals. We don't have wait too long for the album as De Ja Vu is due to be released next week on the 12th of September.
Next up is the brand new track from Dr Pecco which blew me the first time I heard it. In 'Scubamask' Dr Pecco creates just the right level of drama and intrigue while lacing the synthscape with a wonderfully catchy lead melody. This instantly became one of my favourite tracks by the good Doctor, plus it's also available for FREE download currently!
Something that's becoming a fantastic new trend in the scene is the amount of producers getting work doing soundtracks for movies, games and digital comics. These avenues are the perfect way to broaden the audience and fan base that is possible. Foreign Blade has become the most recent producer to explore these new pastures with his new track 'Wiped Out' which will feature in the online comic OutRunners. It's a great track with a darkened mood and a thirst for danger and I hope this leads to more work for Foreign Blade on this production. 'Wiped Out' is available for FREE download too.
Continuing down the dramatic path of intrigue is the new track from Cobra Copter. 'The Plan' is at it's core a funky piece that is bound by a super catchy lead melody but this has been chopped up and almost glitched about in a very entertaining manner. The simplicity of the synthscape allows for much greater explorations of this melody and creates a very engaging experience.
A wonderful new track came my way this week from the delightfully named Zombie Hyperdrive. This piece called 'Citadel' is vastly majestic and rich in melodic harmonies and it's absolutely jubilant in it's stunning chorus refrain. The story is as epic and full of enrapturing details that are completely spellbinding. Definitely one of my favourites in this week's crop of rockin tunes.
To finish off with we have a new high energy roller coaster ride from the alway rockin LA Dreams.
'The Taste Of Glory' is jam packed with twisting turns and high speed straights and the shredding guitars take the experience to all new levels of adrenalin fuelled excitement. Totally rockin.
That does us for another big Weekend Update on Synthetix.FM. I'll be back during the week with more rockin good times from the 80s inspired synth scene.
'Til then, stay 80s and keep on rockin.
One of the great things currently happening in the 80s inspired synth scene is people stepping up and doing their thing to spread the word. As I mentioned in the Protector 101post I did this week Andy Synth is doing a fantastic new shows called Beyond Synth. Andy's already done interviews with Who Ha, Ogre Sound and Vincenzo Salvia, as well as the aforementioned session with Protector 101. The interviews as informal and relaxed and make for very entertaining listening.
Also stepping up is 80s synth scene mainstay BenniMushu and his new show on KFAI radio, Synth Waves. Anyone who's been active in the scene over the last few years will recognise BenniMushu as one of the most ardent and loyal fans of 80s inspired synth music on soundcloud. Now that he has his own radio show he's doing interviews and playing the hottest rockin tunes.
These two rockers will hopefully fill the void for quality interviews with all the great producers in the scene. I had intended for Synthetix.FM to do more interviews, as I've done in the past, but the workload on here has meant I've not been able to devote nearly enough time to doing them to a standard I'm happy with. I always hoped that other rockers would stand up and take on that role and now with at least two sites doing podcast style interviews this should provide a huge amount of good times and great rock'n'roll for those fans, like myself, who want to know more about the scene's raddest talent.
Let's get down to business with some solid gold tunes that are sure to make your days brighter and your nights hotter with the new Weekend Update on Synthetix.FM!
First up is another great track from Pumping Body with 'Young Untouchable'. This Polish producer is really weaving some great 80s magic in his music and this latest track is no exception. Upbeat melodies and punchy percussion set moods to exciting, with a chance of romance. Currently available for FREE download too.
Even though Dance With The Dead pushed their full length album release back to sometime this month they're still making sure we know what we're going to be in for and that, most importantly, it'll be well worth the wait. In their latest demo, 'Xenon', the duo once again combine the danceability of high energy OutRun with the darker sides of Giallo Disco. As always the arrangements create an incredibly deep narrative that thrills and chills it's way into your soul.
It's always going to be a red letter day when theres new Photosynthesi music around and this new track certainly reinforces this. 'Out Of The Blue' is full of cascading melodies and azure vistas full of cresting waves and breezy synths; you'll need to put your sunglasses on for maximum effect. This track is also and exclusive to the new episode KFAI's Synth Waves show.
It's great to see Les Chic Voltage is back and rockin the scene more frequently of late. His latest work is a slow burning synth adventure called 'Fresh Dub 82'. Containing some massive drums and dub elements he ties it all together with some totally tubular 80s melodies that make the entire experience a magical affair. Currently available for FREE download too.
80s Stallone dropped not one but two super cool tracks this week. Both are inspiring and full of 80s love and passion and I found myself in quite a quandary as to which one I enjoyed the most. I think 'Heavyweight' has a slightly richer story but 'Comeback' has a charm that is undeniable. The solution? Heres 'Heavyweight' and heres 'Comeback' so rock em both loud and proud!
Moustache Machine unleashed the spectacular 'Mission Control' this week ans I'm still feeling the aftershocks. The build on this track is totally kick arse and the nods to OutRun and Italo sounds throughout the adventure is as rockin as it is riveting. Also available currently for FREE download.
In what promises to be one hell of a synthscapade through many dimensions is the new full length record form Shio-Z. The preview he has posted covers a massive amount of territory and each track definitely piques my interest and makes me hunger for more. We don't have to wait long for this album's release though as it's released date is only a few days away on the 10th of September, but you can start getting excited right now!
The big hits just keep on coming and they don't get much bigger than STARFORCE's new single. 'Alpine Glow Part II' is a sequel to one of the most popular tracks off their last album Ominiversal Oscillations and it continues the ideas and emotions forged in the original to wondrous new evolutions.
It's an awe inspiring experience with a grandeur and class that is irrepressible. This epic is currently available for FREE download too, so get it rockin ASAP!
I honestly find it hard to put into words just how much I love Sternrekorder's music. Every time I get to post a new track by this amazing producer I seem to find it that little bit harder to convey just how hard his music rocks. In his latest track 'Duesenjaeger' we have yet another glorious ride into a fanciful wonderland of shimmering brilliance and beautiful synthscapes. Magnificent!
Funk synth rockers Jupiter Gang are back with a kickin new tune called 'The Escape'. I find this act one of the most exciting in this field of 80s synth as there seems to be a completely lucid understanding of the genre in their music. I can just see Morris Day & The Time marching up and down the stage to this with synths in hand and bad intentions on their minds. Also available for FREE download!
Another massive release in the offing is a new album from scene legend FM Attack. This exciting new release promises a huge amount of glowing 80s love done with that touch of modernity. There are currently five preview tracks available for your early indulgence on FM Attack's soundcloud here but I couldn't resist sharing 'Magic' featuring the inimitable premier chanteuse of the 80s inspired synth scene Kristine on vocals. We don't have wait too long for the album as De Ja Vu is due to be released next week on the 12th of September.
Next up is the brand new track from Dr Pecco which blew me the first time I heard it. In 'Scubamask' Dr Pecco creates just the right level of drama and intrigue while lacing the synthscape with a wonderfully catchy lead melody. This instantly became one of my favourite tracks by the good Doctor, plus it's also available for FREE download currently!
Something that's becoming a fantastic new trend in the scene is the amount of producers getting work doing soundtracks for movies, games and digital comics. These avenues are the perfect way to broaden the audience and fan base that is possible. Foreign Blade has become the most recent producer to explore these new pastures with his new track 'Wiped Out' which will feature in the online comic OutRunners. It's a great track with a darkened mood and a thirst for danger and I hope this leads to more work for Foreign Blade on this production. 'Wiped Out' is available for FREE download too.
Continuing down the dramatic path of intrigue is the new track from Cobra Copter. 'The Plan' is at it's core a funky piece that is bound by a super catchy lead melody but this has been chopped up and almost glitched about in a very entertaining manner. The simplicity of the synthscape allows for much greater explorations of this melody and creates a very engaging experience.
A wonderful new track came my way this week from the delightfully named Zombie Hyperdrive. This piece called 'Citadel' is vastly majestic and rich in melodic harmonies and it's absolutely jubilant in it's stunning chorus refrain. The story is as epic and full of enrapturing details that are completely spellbinding. Definitely one of my favourites in this week's crop of rockin tunes.
To finish off with we have a new high energy roller coaster ride from the alway rockin LA Dreams.
'The Taste Of Glory' is jam packed with twisting turns and high speed straights and the shredding guitars take the experience to all new levels of adrenalin fuelled excitement. Totally rockin.
That does us for another big Weekend Update on Synthetix.FM. I'll be back during the week with more rockin good times from the 80s inspired synth scene.
'Til then, stay 80s and keep on rockin.
Saturday, January 26, 2013
Synthetix Weekend Update
After another exciting week in the 80s inspired synth scene we've arrived at another monstrous Weekend Update. It's a bumper crop of kick arse retro tunes, now with 25% extra rockin for even greater value! FDA approved and filling your daily dietary requirements of vitamins R, A and D. Synthetix has been medically proven to increase the amount of 80s in your weekend by up to 100%, so don't hold back and pour another bowl of your favourite flavours with this week's Weekend Update on Synthetix!
First up is a bitchen new work of 80s drenched nu-disco with Syncroft's track Melbourne. This is glass-smooth experience of bouncing synth beauty with just enough jiggle to make it impossible to take your eyes off the prize. A little on the short side, but ever so sweet.
From the past comes the storms, as Sepultura once said, but in this case it's the Sky itself that has returned. In one of the more exciting things that happened this week Logan Sky announced his return to the 80s inspired synth scene with a preview of his Face The Flames album. Each track is full of promise and adventure, and I for one am really looking forward to the full experience.
Thomas Barrandon continues his musical journey with his wonderful new track Thast's All I See. This producer has alway been able to personalise his music and has proven his inventiveness and skill over the last few years in each of his tracks. His latest composition proves this theory even further.
Lost Years has embarked on a new odyssey with his latest demo: Breacher. The sounds on this track are exceptional, it's got such a bright and powerful energy. Even as a demo this track feels totally bitchen in how it tells it's own story and evolves into a rivetting example of aural action cinema.
The scene's latest synth superstar to gain household-level stardom has just released a stunning new interpretation of the theme Halloween. Perturbator's metoric rise is one he's certainly most deserving of and this latest experience is a prime example of his skill in creating expansive and terrifying dark synth magic. The second act of this piece is a flawless example of the raw power commanded by Perturbator.
Easing back into the light and safety of day time is Jordan F's latest remix. A classically 80s retelling of Yale's song Lost In The Crowd. I, personally, felt nothing for the original track, but Jordan F's managed to turn into something that feels quite authentic and really brings out the 80s soul in the song.
After one of the biggest years in his musical career thus far Alpha Boy has kicked off 2013 with a new solo track called Skyline. This track is beautifully crafted, I think displaying some new ideas and techniques from this composer. Alpha Boy has a collaborative release with Garth Knight surfacing in the near future too, which will surely be an exciting foray into some quality 80s sounds.
And hot off the presses is the latest release from Garth Knight himself! "You Just Came To Crash The Party" is an electro space jam with superb melodies and vocal perfection. Garth Knight's work in the electro synth funk styles just keeps on rockin harder and harder. Totally kick arse in every respect.
After premiering Pumping Body in last week's Weekend Update he's back with a sterling new track "Come On". The instant I heard this I fell in love with it. The sounds are beautifully authentic, but it's the arrangements and timing of the main melody that really shines throughout the track. Much like Plaisance's music, I find myself incredibly drawn to the sounds Pumping Body creates as the 80s authenticity seems to be innate in their creative process.
Future City Records are back with a two track EP from the latest addition to their stable with the Sidereal Race EP from Shio-Z. This two track release combines a lot of classic sounds and gives them a great deal of crossover to modern styles. It's something that doesn't fully gel with me on a personal level, perhaps it's the instrument sounds, but one can't deny the action and drama of Shio-Z's music as it definitely has a great deal of 80s energy coursing through it's veins.
To complete this week's weekend update we have a superb new video from the Neros77 for Le Matos' totally kick arse track from 2012: Sarah. The video magician has once again weaved a spell of perfect visual complementation to Le Matos music. Definitely one of Neros77's more spellbinding creations.
That does us for the Weekend Update on Synthetix this week. I'll be back to blast you into the future via the past next week, so keep on rockin and stay 80s!
First up is a bitchen new work of 80s drenched nu-disco with Syncroft's track Melbourne. This is glass-smooth experience of bouncing synth beauty with just enough jiggle to make it impossible to take your eyes off the prize. A little on the short side, but ever so sweet.
From the past comes the storms, as Sepultura once said, but in this case it's the Sky itself that has returned. In one of the more exciting things that happened this week Logan Sky announced his return to the 80s inspired synth scene with a preview of his Face The Flames album. Each track is full of promise and adventure, and I for one am really looking forward to the full experience.
Thomas Barrandon continues his musical journey with his wonderful new track Thast's All I See. This producer has alway been able to personalise his music and has proven his inventiveness and skill over the last few years in each of his tracks. His latest composition proves this theory even further.
Lost Years has embarked on a new odyssey with his latest demo: Breacher. The sounds on this track are exceptional, it's got such a bright and powerful energy. Even as a demo this track feels totally bitchen in how it tells it's own story and evolves into a rivetting example of aural action cinema.
The scene's latest synth superstar to gain household-level stardom has just released a stunning new interpretation of the theme Halloween. Perturbator's metoric rise is one he's certainly most deserving of and this latest experience is a prime example of his skill in creating expansive and terrifying dark synth magic. The second act of this piece is a flawless example of the raw power commanded by Perturbator.
Easing back into the light and safety of day time is Jordan F's latest remix. A classically 80s retelling of Yale's song Lost In The Crowd. I, personally, felt nothing for the original track, but Jordan F's managed to turn into something that feels quite authentic and really brings out the 80s soul in the song.
After one of the biggest years in his musical career thus far Alpha Boy has kicked off 2013 with a new solo track called Skyline. This track is beautifully crafted, I think displaying some new ideas and techniques from this composer. Alpha Boy has a collaborative release with Garth Knight surfacing in the near future too, which will surely be an exciting foray into some quality 80s sounds.
And hot off the presses is the latest release from Garth Knight himself! "You Just Came To Crash The Party" is an electro space jam with superb melodies and vocal perfection. Garth Knight's work in the electro synth funk styles just keeps on rockin harder and harder. Totally kick arse in every respect.
After premiering Pumping Body in last week's Weekend Update he's back with a sterling new track "Come On". The instant I heard this I fell in love with it. The sounds are beautifully authentic, but it's the arrangements and timing of the main melody that really shines throughout the track. Much like Plaisance's music, I find myself incredibly drawn to the sounds Pumping Body creates as the 80s authenticity seems to be innate in their creative process.
Future City Records are back with a two track EP from the latest addition to their stable with the Sidereal Race EP from Shio-Z. This two track release combines a lot of classic sounds and gives them a great deal of crossover to modern styles. It's something that doesn't fully gel with me on a personal level, perhaps it's the instrument sounds, but one can't deny the action and drama of Shio-Z's music as it definitely has a great deal of 80s energy coursing through it's veins.
To complete this week's weekend update we have a superb new video from the Neros77 for Le Matos' totally kick arse track from 2012: Sarah. The video magician has once again weaved a spell of perfect visual complementation to Le Matos music. Definitely one of Neros77's more spellbinding creations.
That does us for the Weekend Update on Synthetix this week. I'll be back to blast you into the future via the past next week, so keep on rockin and stay 80s!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)