Album Review
“Once Upon a Time” by Universal Dice

I hope that Universal Dice’s new album release Misfit Memoirs reaches the largest possible audience. The first two singles from the release, “Curse” and the latest song, “Once Upon a Time”, offer evidence that the Gerry Dantone-led project has reached a new peak. “Once Upon a Time” continues developing the band’s songwriting wont for story-focused art that lacks pretentiousness or self-indulgence. The band’s work thus far is a reassuring reminder that ambitious rock works are still out there and deserve maximum exposure. His ability to realize such ambitions without ever descending into unnecessary pomp sets the band’s work even further away from the status quo.
It isn’t an easy balance to maintain. Rock music, reaching back decades, is rife with examples of ham-fisted marriages between ambition and accessibility. Songwriters guilty of overreach have drug potentially great works down with overwrought tendencies. Gerry Dantone’s songwriting avoids such pitfalls. “Once Upon a Time” has an intimate climate. It gives individual listeners the impression that Universal Dice is performing for them alone. The development of the songwriting reinforces this.
Dantone wisely employs a first-person point of view for the lyrics. It gives “Once Upon a Time” storytelling attributes that prod listeners to hang with every word. He sketches out the details with broad strokes focused on significant details rather than weighing down the writing with needless adornments. It is impossible to say for sure without knowing more, but the single comes across as if the words and music came together. I think Dantone began the process with a clear idea of what he wanted the song to say.
It is a certainty that makes the listening experience such a pleasure. There’s surefooted confidence present in each second of this four-minute-long track. However, it isn’t ever strident, and the mid-tempo unfolding of the performance has a calm and considered demeanor. This prevailing mood drew me deeper into its storytelling web. It inspired faith in Dantone’s artistry from the start, and he never gave me a reason to reconsider.
The lyrical brevity underlines the aforementioned certainty. Dantone doesn’t waste a single word in the writing of this track, and his word choices do not disappoint. “Once Upon a Time” pulls no punches. It fleshes out an unforgiving world that Dantone’s sensitive vocal tempers with its thoughtfulness. We experience the emotions present in the song’s words rather than consuming them on a strictly intellectual level.
One of the hallmarks of Universal Dice’s work is the striking balance it maintains between the mental and physical. Dantone and his bandmates have made a name for themselves serving up stimulating musical landscapes capable of moving or entertaining their audience. The lyrical content and concepts are icing on an especially delectable cake. Intelligence and depth distinguish each new outing, and “Once Upon a Time” is no exception. It’s more evidence, if needed, that Universal Dice’s new album Misfit Memoirs will likely rank as their finest collection. We’re lucky to have such meaningful music in times like this, and I hope there’s more to come.
Stacey Winter
Album Review
Artificial Incline unveils its emotionally charged new album premiere, “Used to Be”

The premiere of Artificial Incline’s latest album, “Used to Be,” enriches the musical landscape of Strathmore, Canada. This four-track masterpiece explores the complexities of romantic relationships, emotional resilience, and self-identity, offering a cathartic listening experience that transcends genre boundaries. The album showcases sophisticated lyrical craftsmanship while adhering to classic pop sensibilities, marking a significant evolution in Artificial Incline’s journey as an artist and songwriter.
Thematically, “Used to Be” draws inspiration from personal experiences of relationship discord, delving into topics such as infidelity, betrayal, emotional volatility, and verbal conflicts, all while seeking healing. Artificial Incline utilizes music to process trauma and achieve transformative catharsis. Reflecting on their artistic growth, they emphasize that “good things take time,” a sentiment echoed throughout the album’s dynamic and evocative tracks.
Opening with “King Without a Crown,” which explores existential loneliness alongside the quest for self-actualization. This classic pop anthem highlights the tension of navigating a life or ambition where recognition remains elusive. It captures the haunting reality of feeling lost while striving for greatness, embodying the paradox of “living the nightmare as a king without a crown.” Through enchanting vocal performances, Artificial Incline vividly conveys both regret and aspiration.
The title track, “Used to Be,” follows and provides a passionate, candid portrayal of yearning for clarity within failing relationships. Its stirring melodies and melancholic undertones reflect on past emotional frameworks, advocating for compassion and understanding during difficult times. This piece encourages listeners to embrace resilience and acknowledge the intricate fragility of love, resonating with those who have experienced the turmoil of fading connections.
“Far Away“ marks a significant shift toward introspection, featuring a soulful arrangement that radiates vulnerability. This track weaves a poetic and sonically rich tapestry, guiding listeners through a landscape of self-awareness and emotional clarity. Its evocative delivery pays heartfelt tribute to the insights gained from breaches of trust, offering solace to those who have found clarity on life’s unpredictable adventure.
Closing the album is “Ink and Color,” an elegantly crafted piece that leaves a lasting impression. This track seamlessly blends haunting rhythms with poignant storytelling about faded memories, combining catchy beats and expressive piano chords. The poetic lyricism and deep emotional resonance of “Ink and Color” reflect on the shadows of superficial love and attraction, ultimately shaping our identities.
Throughout “Used to Be,” each composition demonstrates meticulous melodic brilliance, with Artificial Incline showcasing its artistry through intricate beats, lush arrangements, and unmistakable authenticity. As they continue establishing their presence in the contemporary music scene, this album reinforces their emergence as a formidable musical force. “Used to Be” is valuable to the artist’s evolving discography, appealing to audiophiles and fans of innovative, genre-defying narratives. The emotionally resonant themes woven throughout these tracks engage a diverse global audience, marking this release as an essential listening experience not to be overlooked.
CLICK HERE TO STREAM Artificial Incline’s Album “Used to Be“ on Spotify.
CONNECT WITH Artificial Incline | Instagram |
Album Review
The Vlade unveils a mesmerizing indie pop-rock revelation in his recent album, “Bring Me To The Light”

Emerging from Vancouver, Canada, the dynamic indie pop-rock sensation known as The Vlade has officially launched his latest musical endeavor, “Bring Me to the Light.” This impressive ten-track album constitutes a significant artistic achievement that transcends conventional musical boundaries, exploring themes such as love, illumination, and the diverse spectrum of human emotions. The Vlade’s distinctive style incorporates nuanced storytelling and exceptional lyricism, showcasing his remarkable talent for crafting immersive auditory experiences further enhanced by his soaring vocal performances and intricate instrumental soundscapes that evoke hope, vulnerability, and melancholy.
At the core of “Bring Me to the Light” lies the eponymous title track, an impactful pop-rock anthem that effectively lays the thematic foundation for an unforgettable introduction. This track sets the tone for the album’s dynamic exploration of euphoric melodies combined with introspective lyrics that encourage the struggle to be illuminated by the adventure of love, which permeates the work. Notably, this track has garnered significant resonance among audiences in Ukraine, highlighting its extensive emotional appeal.
Following this energetic introduction, “I Do Not Want to Lie“ presents a soulful yet melancholic perspective that delicately examines life’s imperfections, uniting reflective lyricism with an authentic sonic aesthetic. Conversely, “Train to Delhi” evokes an enchanting tribute to classic soul-pop with jazz sensibilities, seamlessly merging the artist’s soulful journey through Delhi with a thought-provoking rhythmic narrative highlighting his artistic versatility.
In “I Do Not Want Your Love,” The Vlade articulates a complex ambivalence toward romantic commitment, utilizing emotive guitar motifs interwoven with a rhythmic bass line and piano harmonies to create an engaging soundscape. Conversely, “It Is Not the End” embodies a sense of optimism, generating a dreamlike ambiance through its catchy beats and entrancing organ strums. Thus, it imparts an uplifting sense of discovery that propels the album’s momentum.
Adding further depth to the compilation, “The Owls” (Bulgarian lyrics) encapsulates a smooth sophistication, exploring nostalgia in unexpected contexts through its flowing melody and tingling sound. Tracks such as “Brand New Day,” “Into Eternity,” and “The Lizard King“ contribute to the album’s hauntingly poetic sonic experience, each revealing distinct aspects of The Vlade’s artistic brilliance.
The album concludes on a poignant note with “When/Life” (Bulgarian lyrics), which leaves a lasting impression characterized by trembling vibrato and a deeply heartfelt interpretation. Every composition within “Bring Me to the Light” exhibits notable melodic and harmonic craftsmanship, guiding listeners through a deeply personal yet universally relatable narrative.
With meticulous attention to detail and a fervent commitment to artistic production, The Vlade’s unique songwriting trajectory solidifies his reputation as an indispensable voice and transformative force within the indie music landscape. His ability to create immersive auditory experiences fosters a profound connection with listeners, rendering this album an essential addition to any playlist for individuals seeking music that resonates at a deeper emotional level. As “Bring Me to the Light” continues to gain acclaim, it further highlights The Vlade’s dedication to pioneering innovative and boundary-defying music.
For more information about The Vlade, please visit [website].
CLICK HERE TO STREAM The Vlade’s Album “Bring Me To The Light“ on Spotify.
CONNECT WITH The Vlade | Instagram |
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