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What I got here is another release drawing inspiration from the early pioneers of electronic music, and sequenced Berlin School in particular. The person behind Abstract Rituals is Mike Donzella, an American electronic music composer who’s now based in Tokyo, Japan. Moreover, Mr. Donzella points out the 12-track contemporary outcome featured on “II”, blending varied styles, textures, melodies, and rhythmic sequences, builds on the foundation of his 2023 debut “Altered Waves”. There yet is a quirky, adventurous as well as challenging aspect to the 53 minutes of music, which also reveals some classical, nostalgic, and a tad weird vibes from ’80s underground cassette culture upon closer listening. To my taste, the overall sonic approach is kind of unusual but becomes familiar and engaging when rapid, vibrant sequences enter the stage merged with smooth textures like on the third take “Electronic Underground” as well as “The Return”, “Eyeline” along the TD- Ricochet angled “Shifting Identities” and “Heir to the Stars” with their cool mellotron pads and sequencer-patterns. Melancholic vibes and a pure sense of ease ride the waves on “Passing Memory”. “II” though should be approached with an open mind, as its music is born from the intersection of past and present, putting Berlin School elements in the blender while matching it simultaneously with a progressive approach towards sound design. The download comes with a bonus track exclusive to Bandcamp. Overall verdict: between 3 and 3.5 stars. |
| Website: www.abstractrituals.bandcamp.com
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