New York-based artist Uncanny Valet unveils a variety of melodic soundscapes throughout debut album Silo. Encompassing both lushly enveloping ambient atmospherics and bustling breakbeat charisma across its 12 tracks, Silo is a showcase in beautifully diverse production and compelling songwriting. Serene spells like “O.R.C.A.” evolve seamlessly into the ensuing “Anagram,” where dexterous percussion and glimmering synths emit a compelling vibrancy. The album is a thorough, eclectic success from the project, which represents the work of writer and musician David Queen.
“At” opens the album with a contemplative, steadily unfolding intrigue. Wordless vocal-like snippets wander alongside rumbling auditory effects, culminating in a glimmering synth backing that evolves into a more composed synth-pop elegance. Pulsing percussion, buzzing bass, and bright synths combine here with atmospheric appeal, complemented by sporadic piano flourishes to bolster a sense of sophisti-pop nostalgia. The subsequent “Holorime” builds with wintry piano tones and shimmering strings, complementing the opening track with more elegant subtlety. Silo quickly establishes an immersive sound with this strong opening one-two punch.
The album’s most sprawling pursuit at over eight minutes, “Mainframe,” is another standout in creativity and structural momentum. Subdued keys evolve into crawling synth vibrancy, plucky and effervescent with shades of Ryuichi Sakamoto and YMO; the atmosphere sounds like it could fit easily within Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence or other films with a wintry dose of ’80s nostalgia. The mid-point percussive additions bolster the gripping sound further, reminiscent of Oneohtrix Point Never in the halted rhythmic components past the four-minute mark. “Mainframe” is an enthralling audible journey, spanning a multitude of atmospheric pursuits.
“Ice Station Zebra” also excels in its balancing of icy synth climaxes and bursting electro-pop flair. Airy synth pads and gentle piano intertwine gorgeously as the three-minute mark approaches, culminating in an intense final minute with whirring synth arpeggiation and hectic percussion. “Sun Tunnels” follows with murky, trickling experimentation as blaring synth insertions appear enticingly, while “Bad Taste” also succeeds in its myriad of compelling effects — from the whimpering brass-like squeals to the hypnotic percussive pulses and sparkling keys.
Silo consistently impresses with its seamless blend of ambient tranquility and dynamic rhythms, showcasing the artist’s knack for creating immersive, emotive soundscapes. David Queen’s meticulous production and genre-blending creativity shine throughout the album, making it a standout debut. From the lush atmospherics to the vibrant, bustling beats, each track offers a unique yet cohesive listening experience that lingers with resonating impact.
