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Album Review

Wastelander’s New Album “What is Left of Me” 

From the poetic folk-rock rundown that we encounter in “Get Older” to the more eclectic feel of “Room Full of Elephants,” the pastoral qualities found in “Broken Leg,” and simplistic melodicism of the rather rousing “Never Trust a Man,” there’s scarcely a moment in Wastelander’s new album What is Left of Me where veteran singer/songwriter Cooper Formant doesn’t sound completely at ease in the recording studio. It can be said that he’s turned in some quality work before now, I think that this latest effort might just be the most confident he’s ever sounded. Under the Wastelander moniker, Formant goes out of his way to reject the filler that many in his age group have come to lean on when crafting a new album, instead favoring a concept that gets back to the basics of folk-rock rhythms and haunting new school harmonies while still allowing himself to explore his depth as a songwriter and arranger. The aptly titled What is Left of Me covers a lot of ground both emotionally and artistically, and I think it’s this player’s most intriguing work to date.

The tempo is as expressive as any of the melodies are in “I Just Want to Be Your Friend (featuring Erin Rae),” the mildly restless “Figure it Out,” superbly paced “Caduceus” and the churning yet wistful “Be Where (also with Rae),” and from where I sit, I think it was important to make it as prominent a feature in What is Left of Me as it wound up being. There’s a great warmth to the fretwork we find throughout this tracklist, and honestly, had the rhythm not been given a little extra panache from Formant, I’m not sure that this record would feel as multidimensional and versatile as it does in this particular instance. Formant’s vocal is challenged for authority over the harmony in “Natural Light” and the similarly absorbing “Get it Right,” but even when the backing instrumentation is giving him a serious run for his money, I don’t believe there’s ever a moment in this LP where he isn’t sounding like the true star of the show from top to bottom. What is Left of Me sports a terrific production quality, but it’s clear to me that all twelve of its obstinate songs would likely sound just as charming in a stripped-down arrangement as they do here.

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If what I’m hearing in this latest release from Cooper Formant is essentially just a taste of what he’s planning on filling this unfolding chapter in his career with, then I think it would be safe for his fans and critics to assume that he’s far from finished as a singer/songwriter. Formant has magnificent energy and enthusiasm in this album that is reminiscent of some of the best singers to pick up a guitar, and if he’s able to bring the same trademark tonality he’s injected songs like the title cut and “As You See” with here, I believe he’s going to see a lot more success on the mainstream side of the industry than he has in previous outings in bands like the Fluids. He’s not necessarily breaking any rules in What is Left of Me, but he’s signifying some outstanding consistency as an artist.

Christian Gardenhire

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Album Review

Mermaid shares an amazing debut album, “Iridescence”

Mermaid

Mermaid, a musical collaboration between Brittany Campbell and Candace Quarrels, has released their debut album, “Iridescence,” a beautiful and diverse collection of 13 songs. The album is 34 minutes and 59 seconds long and showcases the duo’s incredible musical talent through a mix of soul, R&B, alt-rock, and dream-pop.

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The album begins with “Block 37 (Intro),” which has soft, relaxing vocals and jazzy pop music. “Thrivin’” is a soulful song that celebrates the unity of people. “Disassociate” is a rock song that expresses angsty energy, and “Boundaries” is a punk song with distorted guitar sounds. The album ends with “Wanna Be Your Lover,” a nostalgic journey through soul, blues, and funk.

Other songs, such as “Dreamer,” “On a Cloud,” and “Purr,” showcase Mermaid’s talent for songwriting and their ability to blend different types of music.

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“Iridescence” is an excellent example of Mermaid’s musical abilities and is available on all major streaming platforms. The album is a mix of bluesy pop, soulful ballads, and angsty rock, all with beautiful vocals and excellent instrumentation. Mermaid is a musical force to be reckoned with, and this album is a must-listen for music lovers everywhere.

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Album Review

Flaner Klespoza released a new album, “Czarny kokos” (Black Coco) [Premiere]

Flaner Klespoza

Flaner Klespoza has created a new album called “Czarny kokos” (Black Coco). The album has nine songs and lasts for 39 minutes and 13 seconds. It’s a great album that makes you feel like you’re in a tropical place.

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Klespoza was inspired by a trip to a tropical island, and all the music on the album reflects that. The first song, “Tropikalne wiatry (Tropical winds),” sets the tone for the rest of the album. It has sounds that make you feel like you’re in a tropical place.

The middle of the album has songs that are both calm and intense. “Tajemnice porcelanek (Cowries mysteries)” has no words and drums that make you want to move. “Przygody dzikiego psa (Wild dog adventures)” starts calm but becomes more intense.

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The last song, “Tańczące palmy (Dancing palmtrees),” is the best song on the album. It has sounds that are dark and mysterious but also beautiful. The song makes you feel like you’re on a journey.

“Czarny kokos” has many different sounds, like singing and electronic music. it’s an adventure that takes you on a journey.

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