Conjuring a sound that bridges Pet Shop Boys’ synth-pop dynamics and more orchestral-touched balladry, Break is the third album from Utrecht-based pianist, songwriter, and producer Alan Lauris. A memorably melodic sound is paired with contemplative lyrical pursuits, with each track capturing important moments that define the human experience — ranging from heartbreak and personal discovery to resilience during difficult times. “It’s a coherent album, made with attention to detail, about stages in life most of us will go through,” Lauris says.
A wholly immersive opener, “I Dream of You in Black and White” flows with a heartfelt melding of piano and strings to begin. “I see you in my dreams,” Lauris’ solemn vocals let out, arising into the more majestic “just like in an old film,” observation. Frolicking keys push into the “I want to color you in,” yearning — striving to advance the monochromatic dream-state into a more illuminated whimsy; it makes for a touching, orchestral-laden delight to kick off this stellar album. “The Pages Are Missing” ensues with a more vibrant pulse, weaving Supertramp-esque keys and synth buzzes into a bouncy, replay-inducing “all untrue,” hook; touching perspectives on a past love, fading from memory’s view, combines with the memorable composition.
Depicting a new-found sense of independence in moving away from the crowd, “Parades” appeals with a more ballad-ready elegance, sending chills as the radiant piano and soaring strings converge. “Now, I can feel the space,” Lauris’ vocals let out, reminding fondly of Pet Shop Boys in its emotive sincerity. The album’s title track is also a standout, conveying a sense of brooding in the electric guitar distortion and ominous piano complements. “I learned of life and death,” the heady lyricism exudes. These lyrics trace pivotal moments of personal transformation — shedding childhood faith, confronting emotional isolation, and ultimately choosing self-reliance over conformity. The “break, break,” repetition is especially haunting. Break is a stirring, introspective success from Alan Lauris.
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“Break” 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.
