Vancouver-based Psybient/downtempo artist Marc-E recently released his new full-length experimental album, Catharsis.
Marc-E explains, “‘Catharsis’ is very experimental; I used many creative and unique recording techniques. The vibe and feel of Catharsis is to release past traumas and find comfort in the moment, and move on with full confidence in life.”
At once psychedelic and spiritual, Marc-E utilizes live instruments and syncopated hand drums, as well as sounds from the natural world to create his innovative compositions.
Encompassing eight tracks, entry points on Catharsis include “Acceptance,” opening on tolling bells amid swirling colors. An austere piano and syncopated percussion give the tune a delicious wavering feel. Layered melodic textures topped by high-tempo guitar riffs imbue the song with cashmere psychedelic tendrils.
“Seed of Faith” travels on exotic, rippling hues, while a dark, deep pulsing rhythm underscores the numinous leitmotifs. Striking, warbling calls summon forth eerie intonations, infusing the tune with tones both beckoning and equivocal.
“Shadow Work,” a personal favorite, offers gleaming, dreamy surfaces accented by voluptuous, wandering guitars, full of mysterious sonic filaments. “Dreamtime” rolls out on lush sounds of the night, thrumming tones, the buzz of insects. Mechanical thumping clacks and chirrups add to the dusky ambiance.
“Ethereal Glade” features a graceful piano topped by industrial oscillations, followed by the piano taking on more emphasis, while a measured rhythm delivers a tasty undulating flow. A sparkling guitar injects the melody with meandering aromas.
Shimmering with gently glowing washes of sound, “Surrender to Now” suffuses listeners’ ears with rich, warm layers of color. The final track, “Full Armour” percolates and sighs at the same time, pouring forth posh, glistening hues. Simultaneously wistful and resolute, the harmonics elevate and gather sonic muscle, forming a thick wall built by a dazzling, crying guitar.
Unlike most experimental music, Catharsis conveys alluring rinses of sound and colorings. With Catharsis, Marc-E has produced a wonderful album.
