A unique sound that blends modern technology and classic instrumentation. Musically ominous, yet also bright. A wide array of influences and styles brought to the table for this album.
When a group is geographically split, it tends to make things harder for creating. You often can’t just meet up and let the vibe happen. Beatnik Neon has members split between Texas, and France, with regular vocal contributor and collaborator Chris Greaney being in California. Hurdles are bound to arise. Plans change. World events can cause delays, or a rush towards completion. However, Beatnik Neon are pushing through with as close to original plans as they can. Their, at best, minimal social media presence makes each notification and information that much more important and necessary. Back in August they announced that October would see the release of Yoreself, their full length album. That announcement also included future plans of a recording session to put out a follow up EP. The COVID-19 pandemic has put that on hold for now.
Yoreself at times can be difficult to explain. It is bright at times, but also ominous and emotional. The range of Beatnik Neon is incredible. Falling under the genre of Experimental is just a way to give a name to what they create. Classical instrumentation meats modern technology and catchy rhythms. There are elements of pop, R&B, rock, psychedelic, jazz, and classical just to name a few places this album takes the listener. Yoreself is an album that deserves a complete listen. Every song transitions perfectly into the next. The mix and mastering were expertly crafted, as with every Beatnik Neon release, by Irving Artero (Mixed By Irving). Beatnik Neon, Nolan Farmer and Yann McBreton, along with collaborator Chris Greaney and guest vocalist Christine Nicole, show their unique sound fully with Yoreself.
Album Breakdown:
Yoreself opens with “Colors”. Immediately the arrangement forces notice. The use of strings draws the listener in, and the smooth guitar keeps them. The bass is intricate and solid. A great opener and lead in to “The Cure”. An ominous and spacey intro, where the psychedelic elements come in to play, and the opening lyric “Empty Feelings” set the tone of the rest of the song. This could easily be a single that boosts Beatnik Neon into new realms. “Rag and Bone” was originally released as a single in October 2019. Both versions feature the vocal talents of Christine Nicole. Christine’s vocals are astounding, bringing a whole new feel to the Beatnik Neon sound. Guest vocals seem to be a common element to Beatnik Neon releases. But, it is not something overdone or detracting. It is quite the opposite, and a wonderful addition.
“Attic” while short on runtime, is big on sound. It is calming and bright. Yann McBreton’s piano playing is astounding and a great showcasing of talent. There is just something about vocals over a beat that draws attention. The addition of a string arrangement helps with getting pulled in and lost in the music. And that is exactly what “Spiders” does. The blend of vocals, beat, and strings required several repeat listens. The almost title track “Yourself” has a repeat guest vocal appearance by Christine Nicole. A constant from the rest of the album is the smooth guitar playing. It sometimes gets lost, but it works its way back to the forefront. The vocals here are haunting and beautiful. And then, out of nowhere, vibrant and steamy saxophone. And it is saxophone that sounds like it was pulled out of a noir detective film.
“Sunset” is essentially an interlude with astral tones attempting to make contact with outside worlds. It transitions to “Nocturne” and a bigger sound. To close out Yoreself “Nocturne” uses melancholy, yet uplifting strings and piano. The guitars are booming, and have a touch of grit. The softness of the piano and strings blend well with the 70s arena rock guitars.
The overall sound of Yoreself is matured and complete. It is a step away from the more rock sounding first release Atrementous. There are more electronic, and string elements, like in previously reviewed “Throwing Flares”. Beatnik Neon are a group that make music unlike anyone else. Their methods, sound, and creativity are worth recognition. As stated before, Yoreself needs a complete listen to truly appreciate its flow, and the dynamic of each song as the come together as the album. Yoreself is available now on all streaming platforms. Find Beatnik Neon at the links below.
Beatnik Neon on:
Facebook
Instagram
Bandcamp
Christine Nicole:
Facebook