A dark synth-pop intrigue enamors throughout Under the cover of darkness, the second album from Stockholm-based artist Me & Melancholy. The release dazzles in its consistently melodic and tone-ranging production, from the string-laden brooding of “Remember me in color” to the bursting electro-pop dazzle of opener “Just like a dream.”
Drawing on influences like Depeche Mode and New Order, along with alt-rock staples like Radiohead and Smashing Pumpkins, the project’s sound excels with a stylishly nostalgic pull. There’s a nocturnal spirit apparent in the album’s dark synth tones and general themes, referencing the night and a feeling of restlessness. “It’s a pretty dark album and many songs refers to the darkness, night and loneliness,” the artist explains.
Among the many highlights, “So alone” balances darker synth buzzing and brighter pop sensibilities, resulting in a balanced and melodic sound. Elsewhere, “Never saw it coming” casts an eerier spell, with lyrics like “when you wake up screaming every night,” aligning well with a nocturnal stylistic pursuit strongly reminiscent of Depeche Mode. Under the cover of darkness is a sturdy electro-pop showcase from Me & Melancholy.
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“You can’t stop it now” and other tracks featured this month can be streamed on the updating Obscure Sound’s ‘Best of October 2023’ Spotify playlist.
We discovered this release via MusoSoup, as part of the artist’s promotional campaign.
