This is a newer project in the synth wave corner of the musical universe, which is still flourishing, though more underground now. Perhaps this does not have the pristine production of Gunship or Carpenter Brut, but those acts have had more time to hone their craft, and this guy is cranking out a couple of albums a year that are all very thematic with video game and dystopian sci-fi themes. His other album, "Gray Town," was released a few weeks ago, and I'll review it later. felt like it was darker, but this one certainly holds more of the neon-drenched '80s feel you are looking for when it comes to this sort of thing.
My only complaints two songs in are production-based, as some of the bass sounds and synths are not as dense as I like them, so not sure if it is a creative choice or just how this sort of thing came out. If you told me this album was AI-conceived, I might also believe you. Though for electronic music, that sounds like where things would likely head. They demonstrate their ability to produce bigger sounds on "Destroyer." It's about as dynamic as you can ask this sort of instrumental venture to be while keeping the groove. "LK Avalon Unit" is not as focused, and the more subdued beat is not as strong, though I appreciate the atmosphere they are going for.
"Returner x" finds the pace picking up, but some of the drums sound like bubble wrap being popped. "Camouflage Tears" is more of an '80s pop homage, but it captures those sounds well. After this, the compositions begin to take on a more uniform feel and start running together. "Apones' Intention" does stand out by merit of the layers of sound that increase its intensity. The production on the drum sounds is consistent, with the tone one being even more distracting, though this project is impressive when it comes to their ambitions. When you stack it against more seasoned acts, there is a learning curve. so for this reason, I am giving this album an 8.5, which is still very impressive, and shows songwriting wins out over sound alone.
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