Browsing Tag

instrumental

Alex Crick’s ‘Beltane’ Radiates Serotonin and Sidmouth Sunshine

Posted on 12 January 2025

With his latest instrumental single, Beltane, guitar virtuoso Alex Crick channelled the lazy warmth of a Devon summer into a masterfully rejuvenating acoustic performance.

Filmed in the picturesque coastal town of Sidmouth, where red cliffs meet serene shores, the music video accompanying the composition celebrates the laid-back, sun-soaked charm of British seaside life. Crick’s cultivated command of the guitar strings does more than simply display technical chops; in Beltane, he transforms notes into vivid strokes of colour that spill warmth and colour into every corner of the psyche.

Blurring the lines between classical reverence and new wave innovation, Beltane showcases Crick’s unique sonic fingerprint. The intricate fingerpicking evokes comparisons to Don Ross and Andy McKee, yet the romantic flourishes and light percussive fills add a modern twist. The result is a sparse yet satisfying orchestration, refusing to overwhelm but consistently delighting as it sweeps listeners into its panorama of serenity and bliss.

Drawing from a career that spans decades of teaching and performing across the UK, China, and Canada, Crick’s broad stylistic palette shines through. From heavy rock riffs to cinematic violin compositions, he’s no stranger to experimenting with dynamic soundscapes. Yet Beltane distils his melodic storytelling into pure acoustic joy—a testament to his ability to craft pieces that are as accessible as they are evocative.

The official music video for Beltane is now available to stream on YouTube.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Ennoverse – OOT: Electrifyingly Eclectic Dub-Heavy Downtempo

Posted on 22 October 2024

In his debut single ‘OOT‘, the up-and-coming Aotearoa, New Zealand-raised artist and producer Ennoverse stitched his eclectic past into the very fabric of the entrancing instrumental while embracing his unique sonic identity.

OOT pays ode to the electronic pulses of Ratatat and Pitch Black, the disco grooves of Lindstrom, the classical arcs of Rossini and the raw hip-hop energy of The Beatnuts and Cypress Hill. Fusionism fuels the downtempo, dub-heavy beats of ‘OOT’, a track that nods to the pulsating aesthetics of the ’90s rave scenes and innovates with a modern twist.

His use of phasers, strobing synths, and reverberant basslines crafts a space where the listener is compelled to engage their rhythmic pulses and reflect in equal measure. Each element is ingeniously constructed, resulting in an instrumental that drips with funk and electrifies the senses.

While ‘OOT’ is just the beginning, it’s a powerful glimpse into what might come from Ennoverse.

OOT was officially released on October 11; stream the single on SoundCloud now.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

ManiSol stood at the vanguard at dusk as desert rock pioneers in ‘Last Pursuit at Sundown’

Posted on 17 October 2024
ManiSol

ManiSol, the Austrian duo known for their always-in-flux soundprint, have returned with Last Pursuit at Sundown, a dusky desert rock vignette which invites the airwaves to approach the Western Front at twilight. As you sink into the throes of the scriptless saga, your imagination will meet the minds of the relentless innovators.

As post-rock Titans who continually redefine their sound, this latest entry is true to immersive form; by dripping psychedelia into the dynamic fusion, a vivid auditory landscape unfurls through which ManiSol builds a Western panorama where riffs replace pistols at dawn.

The track commences with a quiet stir of bass notes, escalating into a crescendo of clashing brashy chords which reverberate through the dusky hues of sundown in the sprawling sonic scene. Winding back down from the aural apex, each note is crafted to prolong the moment, allowing the music to slither through the emotionally charged atmosphere and inviting the listener to partake in a sublime encounter with instrumental introspection.

ManiSol’s ability to reinvent themselves remains evident as they don instruments like psychedelic rock armour; each release from the duo showcases their relentless pursuit of creative expression and ability to challenge expectations with each note.

Last Pursuit at Sundown will hit all major streaming platforms, including Bandcamp, Spotify & Tidal, on October 17.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Atrionix painted a neon-lit skyline in his synthwave score, Nights

Posted on 5 October 2024
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dzFC0fX4Pzw&ab_channel=Atrionix

Sinking into Atrionix’s, standout single, Nights, is so much more than hitting play on an instrumental score; it is diving headfirst into a neon-drenched skyline after dusk.

Short, yet undeniably affecting, the retro-futurist single sets a high bar for anticipation of what’s next from the promising artist. With just over a minute of runtime, Atrionix, the stage name of 19-year-old Londoner Rahul Dasgupta, proves that brevity can indeed be the soul of wit—and of intrigue.

Nights sweeps you up in a rush of synth waves, echoing the energy of a city that never sleeps, each note painting streaks of light across the dark canvas of the listener’s imagination.

After earning his stripes as a pianist, violinist and guitarist at a young age, Rahul had naturally progressed into electronic production by 12; his creative ambitions and passion for sound palettes have never faltered. With his sights now set on becoming a hitmaker and his production style as honed as Empathy Test’s, his career path is going to be paved in gold.

Don’t mistake Nights as a short and sweet instrumental, recognise it as a bold statement of what’s to come from one of the most promising up-and-coming artists on the scene today.

Stream Nights on YouTube now.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Michel Héroux Orchestrated Synesthetic Euphoria in the Serenity of His Jazz Fusion Installation, Folk Song

Posted on 24 May 2024
Michel Heroux

Montreal-based guitarist, composer, arranger, and educator, Michel Héroux allowed his latest instrumental piece, Folk Song, to become a paragon of his fusionist prestige. His ability to translate technical skill, while balancing jazz, blues, rock, pop, rock, classical and experimental elements, into profoundly evocative sensory experiences which transcend auditory bliss is superlative – to say the least.

With each progression an explosion of vibrant, almost tropical, soul, you can’t help but be enveloped by the synesthesia-bestowed hues which blossom around the complex layers of the creatively uninhibited melodies which serenade you away from the mundanity of material reality and implant you in a sonic scene of utopia. If you need to be reminded of the capacity for fret-carved beauty, hit play.

Folk Song will be available to stream on all major platforms from May 24th. Discover Michel Héroux via his official website and Facebook.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Sojourn into Scott Murphy’s profound musical ethos with his seminally lush release,  Follow the Right Light

Posted on 28 April 2024

Scott Murphy’s standout release, Follow the Right Light, featuring Janek Gwizdala, Daniel Chu, and Padget Fresh Nanton, taken from his expansively styled album, a dream of form, is a sublime exploration of the intersections between easy listening jazz and art-rock.

As Murphy’s sax lines lace the instrumental soundscape with smoky strident cultivation with a similar sense of Pete Wareham’s fiery finesse, the trip-hop-esque percussion modernises the jazz-infused production, ensuring that Follow the Right Light resounds far away from your typical and inaccessible jazz fare.

Scott Murphy, an internationally acclaimed name in the jazz scene, proved exactly how he earned his prestigious stripes with Follow the Right Light; the 10-minute sojourn into sensuous serenity is as essential as listens come for those who carry a penchant for jazz, and those who look for catharsis in lush sound palettes.

Follow the Right Light was officially released on April 20; stream the single on Spotify.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Slip back to the mid-century with Sam Johnson Trio’s jazz number, Waltz for Taylor

Posted on 27 March 2024

Sam Johnson Trio’s latest single, ‘Waltz for Taylor’, is a temporal gateway to the golden era of mid-century jazz, an introduction to the trio’s commitment to authenticity and an exhibition of their skill in crafting a sound that resonates with the essence of jazz legends like the Vince Guaraldi Trio and the Oscar Peterson Trio.

The easy-listening instrumental score crafted by Sam Johnson (piano), Georgia Johnson (double bass), and James Wood (drums) shuns the lure of bravado and opts for an ambience rich in opulence and decadence, yet remarkably free of pretension. It’s a rare feat in today’s jazz scene.

The heart of this piece lies in its melodious piano keys, led by Sam Johnson. His intuitive play is the cornerstone of the trio’s sound, weaving a soundscape that is both warm and beguiling. The expressive flair of the music is subtle yet profound, inviting listeners into a world of escapism. The cathartic nature of this waltz is undeniable, offering a respite from the chaos of modern life.

This single is a must-listen for jazz aficionados and casual listeners alike, offering a slice of history served with a side of modern flair.

Waltz for Taylor was officially released on March 15th; stream the single on Spotify.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Mercy Vibe – Funkymamabass: A Bold Instrumental Leap into RnB’s Unchartered Waters

Posted on 6 March 2024

Mercy Vibe’s latest single, ‘Funkymamabass‘, is a bold, unorthodox RnB foray. This track, released mere months into her career, showcases a daring blend of soulful melodies and experimental beats, marking her as a trailblazer to keep on your radar.

The single opens with an audacious, distorted intro, reminiscent of a radio lost between stations, before plunging into a rhythmically rich terrain. Mercy Vibe’s mastery in fusing 80s soul with contemporary RnB is evident as she weaves spiritual, transcendent tones into the fabric of the track. The result is a captivating soundscape that both challenges and charms the listener.

‘Funkymamabass’ stands out for its heavy, funk-infused bass lines that anchor the track while the soulful melodies float above, creating a scintillating juxtaposition. This instrumental piece is a testament to Mercy Vibe’s avant-garde approach as she fearlessly navigates through the intersections of RnB and soul.

Mercy Vibe, hailing from the Midwest, brings a fresh perspective to the genre. Her commitment to breaking musical boundaries and her advocacy for copyright protection highlight her as not just an artist, but a visionary in the industry. Her collaborative spirit and dedication to her craft shines through in this release.

While ‘Funkymamabass’ may not align with traditional RnB tastes, it is a must-listen for those who appreciate innovation in music.

Stream Funkymamabass on YouTube now.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Lost Gold grooved soul into old-school hip-hop instrumentals in ‘FILE.0016’

Posted on 20 February 2024
lostgold.file.0016 by lost gold

With ‘FILE.0016′, Lost Gold, the moniker of Minneapolis-based multi-instrumentalist Dylan Heidt, crafted an instrumental odyssey that resonates with the warmth and soul of old-school hip-hop. This track, part of Heidt’s ambitious solo project, is a testament to his versatility and deep-rooted appreciation for diverse musical genres.

The track opens with a beat that could easily be mistaken for an Alabama Shakes number, immediately setting a tone of nostalgic familiarity. It’s a rich, soulful foundation that harks back to the golden era of hip-hop, yet feels refreshingly contemporary. The warmth of the beat is palpable as the track progresses and the impossible-to-resist grooves take centre stage.

The keys cascade with a melodiousness that’s both playful and profound, while the guitars add a shimmering layer of complexity around the robustly funk-infused basslines that are meticulous when carving pockets of rhythm.

As Lost Gold continues to release more music through Bandcamp, ‘FILE.0016’ stands as a shining example of his talent and vision. It’s a piece that connects with listeners globally, proving that true artistry lies in the ability to blend the familiar with the new, creating something uniquely resonant and timeless.

FILE.0016 was officially released on January 3rd; stream or purchase the single on Bandcamp.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Embrace the beauty and brutality of the human experience with Mirko Sangrigoli’s seminal neo-classic composition, Z

Posted on 17 February 2024

Mirko Sangrigoli’s latest single ‘Z‘, from his sophomore LP, is a cinematic instrumental emblem of his dual artistic identity. As a jazz musician and a composer of filmic soundtracks, Sangrigoli demonstrates his ability to straddle these worlds with finesse.

Z, the title single from his 2024 album, is a narrative of the complexities of our times, articulated through the eloquence of keys. The track begins with a sense of urgency, the piano keys dancing rapidly, evoking a sense of franticness that mirrors our chaotic epoch. Yet, there’s a method to the madness, which speaks to Sangrigoli’s jazz background. The improvisational feel of jazz is present, but it’s reined in, controlled, and purposeful.

As the piece progresses, it shifts into more reflective moments; these intersections are where Sangrigoli’s talent shines brightest. The transition from the frenetic to the contemplative interludes is seamless as they open a gateway to introspection, echoing the quieter moments in our own lives.

It’s a soundtrack for the ennui-inclined existential soul, capturing the beauty and brutality of the human experience. For those seeking a musical piece that is both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant, ‘Z’ is a journey worth embarking on.

Z was officially released on January 31st; stream the single on Spotify.

Review by Amelia Vandergast