Various Seasides
Self-Released, 2022
10/10
The Brooklyn artist Kevin O’Connor, aka Talkdemonic, has impressive roots in the Portland, Oregon indie-rock scene, and after much ruminating through the pandemic, the multi-instrumentalist returns with this 5th album.
O’Connor wastes no time showing us his very creative vision with the calm versus busy dynamics of “Barely Dawn”, which pairs acoustic guitar with bright synth, and “Playland” follows with gripping keys and a swirling shoegaze formula.
Further on, O’Connor’s cinematic qualities are upfront on the piano and drum focused “Night Walk”, while “Time Conscious” finds a charming groove to occupy, and the meticulous drumming is not to be forgotten.
Deeper on the back half, “Abandoned City” lands in haunting territory, where a distinct ambience is guided by the intimate piano, and the title track exits with a haze of post-gaze that’s nothing short of mesmerizing.
If names like Brian Eno, Joy Division and My Bloody Valentine mean anything to you, you’re going to absolutely be enamored with Talkdemonic’s sonic vision that produces some of the best instrumental music today.
Travels well with: Luminous Beings- Horrors; Charming Disaster- Spells + Rituals