Two Steps from Hell-SkyWorld review

It is no secret that we love film music here at ThinkMuzik.  As I have said numerous times, there is no such thing as bad classical music.  And while film music isn't necessarily classical, the same rule holds true. 

Two Steps from Hell's new public album "Skyworld" is not even film music per se.  There is a little-known genre called 'trailer' music, which is a category "SkyWorld" fits in nicely.  Most tracks are short compared to typical classical pieces and composed specifically for film, television, and video game trailers.

The compositions on "SkyWorld" merge the old with the new, leaving no stone unturned for new ways to make contemporary music fresh and exciting.  These tracks are soaring and epic orchestra pieces that incorporate guitars, horns, cellos, percussion, vocal melodies, and choral performances.  In the world of contemporary music, this album is as eclectic as they come. 

A start-to-finish listen of this album conveys varying emotional and thoughtful reactions from the profound to the somber and everything in between.  Including a track or two here does not do this disc its proper justice.  This album as an incredible and rewarding listening experience.  If you like contemporary and/or film music at all, this record is a must-purchase item.  It is exceptional in every way possible.  It surprises at every turn.  The musical styles and tempos are virtually boundless and each track relates a unique visual and emotional perspective.  The clarity on this disc is outstanding and the production is massive. 

All I can say is that my list for best albums of the year has just become a little more crowded.  This is indeed top-ten worthy and will earn its keep nicely on any film music playlist.  This album is available for purchase at iTunes and Amazon for a decent price.  Don't bat an eye, because this album contains a whopping 22 tracks.  Please enjoy the two tracks I have embedded here, and as always, thanks for reading!!

Monochromie-Angels and Demons review

Don't get me wrong.  I liked the film adaptation of Dan Brown's "Angels and Demons" a lot, and the score was incredible.  But, no this review has nothing to do with the film, the book, or the soundtrack.  Today we are looking at the new album from French post-rock act Monochromie.

Monochromie is the product of Wilson Trouvé.  His music shows a unique perspective on the post-rock genre, presenting numerous attitudes and textures through the musical landscape.  This variety is what makes Monochromie one of the best post-rock artists around in my opinion.  Airy ambient structures collide with more earthen live instrumentals and keyboards, which are at times distorted beyond recognition.  These opposing viewpoints, between light and bleak atmospheres, creates an impressive melody that at times flows like placid waters and at others like jumbles of boulders.  Chaos is interspersed with calm.  This texture may sound disjointed, but it works remarkably well. 

Citing influences ranging from Explosions in the Sky to Frederic Chopin to Franz Schubert, Monochromie is well-versed in several styles of music, including ambient, electronic, post-rock and even classical.  This variety is presented well throughout the album.

"Angels and Demons" relies on electronic ambient spheres of music played in tandem with heavily distorted live instruments to create melody, which is a tactic many post-rock bands employ.  This album has no vocals.  The music at times sounds uplifting and proud, and at others downtrodden and sad.  These kinds of contrasts are present at every turn during this album.  I can proudly give this album better marks than many of the other post-rock albums I have reviewed of late.  This is on par with Hammock's new offering, and even better than Inner Trip and Ana Never.  I highly recommend this music to fans of down tempo and electronic music, as well as the average fan not experienced in post-rock. 

Check out the full album stream, courtesy of Monochromie's bandcamp page below.  Thanks for reading and enjoy!!