Starting with a piano riff that repeats for the first 30 seconds of the song, it has a high note that acts as the metronome and keeps the rhythm flowing until the shift. That high note is a sign of quality in its sound; the way in which it recedes and but still builds as the note is continually struck, gives The Greystone authenticity. Like listening to a musical adaptation of a summer rain in amongst the native bush, each note like another drop of water falling and connecting with a surface. There are no sudden starts and stops in the sound. Every note lingers and adds to the ambience of the layered soundscape.
Almost combining electronic, atmospheric, and lounge genres there is a relaxing, tranquil tone that makes the body want to move gracefully and simultaneously sink into a mass of blankets. Everything flows, everything is balanced and in harmony. There is no focusing on vocals, it is just another layer among many, that ebbs and flows.
The sort of track that would suit those looking to de-stress, meditate, contemplate, and forget about the worries of the world. A gorgeous composition, that has so much emotive force that it ever so nearly transcends music into an organic, natural phenomenon.
The Greystone is the first peek at the forthcoming album, A Lost Light, and it's safe to say that my expectations will be high. A truly delightful track.
Review written by Alex Moulton
Pacific Heights is the solo project of Wellington-based songwriter and producer Devin Abrams. Best known for the fifteen years he spent as one of the founding members of New Zealand group Shapeshifter, of late Devin's focus has returned to his solo work, heralding the arrival of a new Pacific Heights album titled The Stillness.
The first Pacific Heights album in eight years, The Stillness is a work that pays homage to his musical past while also giving Devin the freedom to present his own vision on progressive electronic music. The album showcases Devin’s incredible knack for transforming the sonic into the cinematic. The rich textures, smoky edges, and flaring electronic surges, coupled with a number of standout guest performances make for a truly breath-taking collection of music.
The album features guest appearances from a small but perfectly formed collection of New Zealand musicians including Deanne Krieg, Jen Turner, Louis Baker and Shaan Singh (Drax Project). "Collaborating with these beautiful and talented people on the album kept me sane at times and provided some refreshing musical perspectives," says Devin.