Abstract
Veidt, 2022
8/10
A colorful and certainly abstract Italian duo, Jacopo Gabanini and Francesco Bartoli. i.e. Kabuki Dream, make for very interesting electro-synthwave sounds across these 14 tracks.
The title track starts the listen with firm, rapid fire percussive sounds, before spacey blips and beeps enter the atmospheric landscape that uses dreamy, wordless vocals as well as soundbites for the textured climate, and “Timeless” follows with soothing strings and adventurous electronica meeting at a very creative intersection.
Elsewhere, “Nebula” is a bit more ominous, as a dense, cinematic quality unfolds, while “Star Bridge” heads right into sci-fi territory amid its eerie backdrop of exploratory drumming noises.
Deeper on the back half, “WMMW” makes great use of bright synth as it presents a dance floor ready version of electro-pop that uses a drum machine in fascinating ways, and “Away” exits the listen with a glorious tone, where subtle vocals and a surreal demeanor make for a radiant finish.
The pair make quite an impression with this sophomore album, where piano loops and electric guitar are also part of their formula that might remind you of the Chemical Brothers or Daft Punk, and is quite futuristic, danceable, and even prog-friendly during its elaborate duration.
Travels well with: Almeeva- To All My Friends; Benjamin Schoos- Doubt In My Heart