Symbolism
Indica, 2018
8/10
A multi-talented and bilingual artist who’s played in reggae bands and worked in film music as an engineer, this indie-pop and electro-pop flavored album has Caracol cultivating strong melodies, rhythmic singing and some tribal percussion on the adventurous Symbolism.
“The Way i Wanted” starts the listen with ambience before moving into a pop friendly display of danceable melodies and youthful rhythm, and “Scars” continues the setting with warm keys as playful percussion guides the subdued, tuneful atmosphere.
Further along, “Silver Girl” displays plenty of electronic manipulation as soulful vocals enter the frisky climate, while “Hacker” moves with a firm pulse and strong beat as retro ideas invade a smooth energy. “Flooded Field”, with Illa J, then takes nods to reggae in the breezy and spirited execution that was the first single, which only makes sense since it is the album standout.
Near the end, “Hide” offers sublime balladry in a dreamy setting, and “Ally” exits the listen dance friendly, and shimmers bright with modern pop melodica that puts a firm exclamation point on this accomplished record.
Caracol was nominated as Canada’s Electronic Artist of the Year, and it’s easy to see why with this ambitious and exciting effort where producer Joey Waronker (Beck’s drummer) really highlighted the many strengths of Caracol’s boundless talent.
Travels well with: Milk & Bone- Deception Bay; Santigold- Master Of My Make-Believe