A radiant, emotive pop showcase from multi-instrumentalist Colseth, Stellar Illusions impresses with a dynamic tonal prowess across its 12 tracks. Glistening lushness and anthemic vigor intertwine cohesively throughout. “Would you give me another chance if I asked you?” yearning vocals ask on one of many highlights, “Blooming Moon.” Multiple vocal layers and prancing keys arise into that appeal to emotion, swelling thereafter into expressive vocals that ponder if they’re better off without them. Thereafter, a gripping hip-hop vocal feeling arrives, intensifying in ardency prior to a gorgeous blend of guitar and piano. It’s one of several examples within of engaging songwriting and production with commendable tonal variety.
Additional highlights are numerous. “Ways of Old” builds with climactic intensity from glimmering synths and conscious-minded lyrical introspection, satiating into burgeoning rhythms and caressing vocal layers. The synth work past the two-minute mark is especially magnetic. Album finale “Solar Eclipse” is another stirringly eclectic display, moving seamlessly from spacious serenity into lyrical perseverance and pit-pattering percussive interplay. A mid-point outpouring of emotions melds with brisk percussion and “I love you, yes I do,” affections for a stirring send-off. Stellar Illusions is a thorough success from Colseth.
