Change is fundamental for creativity. Adopting a fresh approach, exploring new horizons: it all matters for creating art that’s not repetitive, but instead a genuine act of self-expression. German talent Vic Brando knows it well. So well, in fact, that he took a step back from his usual guitar-based indie-pop style, pursuing a concoction of sound that could replicate his inner vision. Long gone are the days of previous EP ‘see you at the border’. Brando embraces a new version of himself, one that’s not afraid to innovate. ‘ICARIA’ is what comes out of it: a three-track EP floating into a genre-less musical continuum, where all that matters is personal expression.
Produced by Brando himself in his bedroom – impressive for such a great sounding record – ‘ICARIA’ is a fierce jump into the unknown. Oh, don’t worry, there is nothing dangerous here. On the contrary, the EP offers a sonic experience you’ll benefit from. The Teutonic talent takes us on a journey through past relationships and the various phases of infatuation. Opening with ‘Blue Waves’, we get taken to an alternate universe where sleazy hip-hop, slightly lo-fi, gets sparsely inundated by gritty and loud synthesisers, perhaps signalling the internal turmoil of meeting someone you actually like.
‘Whitewater’ dives into indietronica, featuring an acoustic bass providing funk and disco tones. It’s fascinating to observe the peculiar production recipe used by Brando: simple yet punchy beats are overlaid with abstract soundscapes and leftfield sonic goodness. Not to mention, the artist’s vocals: refined, evocative and charming, they are the stuff of dreams.
Title-track ‘ICARIA’ closes the EP in mesmerising fashion, employing breakbeat grooves and indie riffing into an uplifting song structure, culminating into a wonderful and catchy chorus.
Wow, we are impressed! Vic Brando really hits the mark, releasing music that’s interesting and engaging.
Recommended. Discover ‘ICARIA’ on Spotify:
