The Next One is an enjoyably eclectic album from Les Brown, spanning from vibrant tropical-set rhythms to nocturnal lushness in its wide realm of sounds. The Pennsylvania-based multi-instrumentalist, composer, and producer cites inspirations such as Tangerine Dream, Brian Eno, and others that defy stylistic and structural norms, embracing beautiful new territory in its experimental and progressive pursuits.
“Picycle” is a riveting opener, melding trickling guitar understatements with whirring momentum at mid-point. The hypnotic guitar-based groove persists enjoyably amidst a free-flowing range of inventive, melodic layers. The Next One is abundant in enjoyable structural explorations, a tendency that also shines on the subsequent “Jungle Night,” moving seamlessly between spacious outdoor-set ambience and serenely intoxicating instrumentation.
Another showcase in mood, “Martini” succeeds in a more nocturnal realm; creeping piano, gentle percussive pulses, and string-laden weepiness converge with a cinematic intrigue. Later on in the album, “Yeehaw!” struts a more invigorating sensation, with distorted guitars and a title-touting vocal exultation making for an interestingly infectious result. The Next One is a thoroughly compelling album from Les Brown.
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“Martini” and other tracks featured this month can be streamed on the updating Obscure Sound’s ‘Emerging Singles’ Spotify playlist.
