Moving cohesively from erupting dark rock fervency to dreamier intrigue, Depression Starter Pack is the compelling new EP from Oliver Jordan. The Austin, Texas-based artist struts a dynamic sound throughout, embracing an alt-rock versatility that proves consistently engaging.
“Philosopher” opens the album with an immersive rock fervency. Dexterous percussion and fervent guitar distortion reveal an onslaught of energy to start. Murky, venomous vocal grows emerge underneath the excitement, as flourishes of excitable electric guitars linger with sporadic excitement. A more dazed, melodically fluid vocal progression follows in suit. The project’s knack for gripping, industrial rock prowess is evident from the get-go.
Another highlight, “Secret 13” showcases a dreamier, contemplative direction. Lyrical fears of the world being a “scary place,” mesh well with gentle acoustics and simmering brass-like resonance. Following “Death Star,” which exudes a debonair rock styling, the dynamic tonal range within Depression Starter Pack is enjoyably on display. The successes continue from there, including the synth-friendly hypnotics of “Disco Weirdo” and the riveting finale “Cracks,” which excels in its range of dreamy acoustics, erupting guitars, and ghostly wordless vocal chills.
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“Philosopher” and other tracks featured this month can be streamed on the updating Obscure Sound’s ‘Emerging Singles’ Spotify playlist.
We discovered this release via MusoSoup, as part of the artist’s promotional campaign.
