Showcasing a compelling range of ardent rock and dreamy pop/folk intertwining, crossing the storyline is the impactful sophomore album from Outland. Outland represents the moniker of Poland-based bassist, composer, and producer Filip Łajtar, joined here by guest singer White Sage, who enamors with a gorgeously dreamy entrancement on tracks like “deep water” and “not there.” Łajtar and White Sage both impress in their vocal performances, stirring in their representation of two characters within a relatable narrative — capturing the power of self-confidence and embracing one’s voice.
“sunrays” commences the album with a powerful rock-forward emotion. “All this time I wanted to go back,” the vocals yearn amidst invigorating guitar work, further lamenting “but the river’s far behind.” The dark alt-rock vigor reminds fondly of A Perfect Circle. “not there” follows with an entirely different aesthetical direction — expanding gorgeously from piano-laden dreaminess into strumming acoustics and multi-vocal soaring. The album’s opening one-two punch wastes no time in showcasing the project’s dynamic tonal grasp, succeeding in both anthemic rock intensity and lushly introspective pop.
In addition to the effective variety of rock and pop-forward balladry, the album also compels in its touches of electronic sophistication. “inside a room” is especially moving in that regard, crafting a sort of trip-hop nostalgia in the synth pulsations, gentle vocals, and intriguing momentum; shades of Portishead show in the stylish production. Subsequently, the album’s title track immerses with a ghostly folk edge. Łajtar’s vocals ruminate on “precious photographs,” with a reflective chilliness, building into spine-tingling strings that meld cohesively with the sturdy acoustic-driven undercurrent. crossing the storyline consistently compels in its wide emotional and aesthetical ranges.
There’s no shortage of quality songwriting on the album, and that continues into its second half. “in gold” stirs in its opening proclamation — “I found something I lost — a piece of myself I’ve been missing awhile now,” — and steady guitar murmurs. The mid-point enamors in its “every moment,” vocal hook and glistening guitar twangs.
Coming next, “deep water” brings listeners back into a serenely impactful dream-pop realm, driving compellingly into the memorable album finale “always tomorrow.” There, pulsating piano momentum complements visceral emotion: “Sometimes when I close my eyes, I can see myself from the other side.” The confessional lyrical prowess enthralls alongside the ballad-ready arsenal, expanding with heartrending qualities. crossing the storyline is an emotively gripping and melodic success from Outland.
