24 Nov 2024
Sam Wave - Album Review: Rhetorical What
13 Jan 2020 // A review by LouClementine
Sam Wave is the moniker of musician Sam Mehrtens. Sam's 13-track debut album Rhetorical What was released in late December. With this release Wave adds a welcome and original blend of synth-pop infused tunes, android vocals and futuristic experimental vibes.
Sam Wave is the moniker of musician Sam Mehrtens. Sam's 13-track debut album Rhetorical What was released in late December. With this release Wave adds a welcome and original blend of synth-pop infused tunes, android vocals and futuristic experimental vibes.
The world Sam Wave creates through his music is a sound from the future combined with the sounds from the past, and that’s the best kind of music in my book. The sixth track caught my attention first; titled Find Someone Sexy, it seems to reference an AI world with its breathy subtle robo-vocals. As the album progresses single synth notes hover and provide additional tempo in Faded, followed by a slightly sultry and groovy tone to Clouds.
Rhetorical What is then broken down with the electro chill ambiance of Same Same. Briefly, the tone changes to a decidedly darker feel in Wake Up Sunny but it then levels out with a blend of delicate vocals. I think this could be my favourite track. There’s a disorienting effect in The Best Irregular; to me it’s ripe for a dancier fast-paced remix. Again, the female vocals are further enhanced by an electronic generated sound which I especially like.
I look forward to seeing Sam Wave perform live - if this album is anything to go by, it'll be more than worth it.
Rating:
( 5 / 5 )
About Sam Wave
Sam records and writes his music in a home studio in the mountains of Arrowtown, New Zealand. He immerses himself in the full process; producing, mixing, playing, singing ... it’s fun and all teaches him different ways of approaching his writing.
“Instead of trying to be Miles Davis, try and be the best trumpet” ... something Sam wrote. It's how he goes about his art.
Visit the muzic.net.nz Profile for Sam Wave
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