Growing from hypnotic ruminations to a soaring string-laden exhilaration, “Chasing Shadows” is a standout single from Denver-based artist Johnathan Maske. The track provides a first glimpse at Maske’s upcoming album, The Down Valley, releasing in May 2024. This marks the solo debut from Maske, who has performed in bands such as Two Strikes, The Get Together, and Rebel Steele.
“Time to close up shop, send in the last brigade,” Maske opens, cohesively entering alongside flickering acoustics, a bouncy bass line, and ghostly backing textures. The vocal variation, ranging seamlessly from initial subdued entrancement into heightened pitches, reminds stirringly of Thom Yorke.
The second half is particularly captivating, with the “chasing shadows in the dark,” sequence exploring the role of consequence and losing it all, resonating into swelling strings and ghostly vocals at the four-minute turn. “Chasing Shadows” is a powerful showing from Maske, whose upcoming album we’ll be firmly anticipating.
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This and other tracks featured this month can be streamed on the updating Obscure Sound’s ‘Best of December 2023’ Spotify playlist.
