Entropy is a new full-length from DZ Riley. The album shows an impressively diverse aesthetic, ranging from the Brian Wilson-esque gorgeous harmonizing of “Buzz” — showing warm Americana and folk — to ambitious rockers in the progressive and psych-friendly vein, like the excellent “Sundown.” Thematically, Entropy captures the symptoms and emotions that many patients of Alzheimer’s experience. Riley is donating all profits from the album to the Alzheimer’s Association.
“Buzz” is an instantaneously enjoyable listen melodically, emitting warming vocal harmonizing and a twangy vein of expansive Americana. “For patients with Alzheimer’s, morning is when they feel best, and “Buzz” reflects that,” Riley writes. A natural contrast, Sundown” lyrically is about patients’ evening symptoms. “One last time I can recall,” and similar, yearning lines resonate amidst a sound reminiscent of Pink Floyd. The soaring guitar solo past the three-minute mark is especially reflective of that act. “Today” is another highlight, capturing Riley’s personal struggle with losing his grandmother, who the album is dedicated to. The track shows a heartfelt, folk-forward sound that expands with anthemic, emotive passion. Entropy is a thoroughly strirring, successful album from DZ Riley.
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“Buzz” and other memorable tracks from this month can also be streamed on the updating Obscure Sound’s ‘Best of October 2020’ Spotify playlist.
The track is also featured in the genre-based, best-of Spotify compilation Emerging Indie Folk.
