Via its range of memorable electronic soundscapes, Dialectics of Collapse conceptually captures “the birth, growth, and final days of a complex civilization.” The consuming concept album comes from Inlet Industry, the alter-ego of experimental composer and producer Joan Arnau Pàmies.
The opening “Thalassa” hints at the engrossing atmospheric hold ahead. A spacey, eerie synth lingers alongside a calming ocean setting, with waves crashing and seagulls frolicking. A backing organ emerges with an illuminated power, immersing as the synths swell and a crackling warmness surrounds the undercurrent. A peppier twinkling concludes this riveting opener, preparing listeners for the audible experience incoming.
Dialectics of Collapse continues its strong reveal of soundscapes with the subsequent title track. A buzzing synth character assumes a prominent role, weaving into the dreamily, haunting vocals of Vivian Sànchez. The spacious dream-pop feeling compels throughout. Also standing out is the two-part “Altered Forms” — whose first entry intrigues in its otherworldly fragments, and second entry struts a late-night, bass-y envelopment. Traversing with creative vigor, Dialectics of Collapse shows an inventive, atmospheric captivation.
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This and other tracks featured this month can be streamed on the updating Obscure Sound’s ‘Best of September 2023’ Spotify playlist.
We discovered this release via MusoSoup, as part of the artist’s promotional campaign.
