Tycho’s latest album release Awake encompasses all that the word can be defined as. It is uplifting, lively. Tycho (Scott Hansen) has a way with production that evokes the feeling that everything is alright.
From the first and title track of the album, it is that deep breath you take while rising with the morning sun. But not one of those mornings that feels sluggish and dreary, rather, when the air makes you feel alive.
“Montana” which was released as a prior single, is a traveling song. It dips and rises throughout and has a dreamy keyboard pattern that is heard, dignified with the hi-hat and drum patterns, and goes hand in hand with a poignant bassline that cannot be missed. This track has complex soundwork and a rhythm that moves the feet.
The next track on the album, “L” is reminiscent of Tycho’s album Dive. While the first two tracks are very present, this one takes a step back. It is contemplative. More in a spaced out dreamworld, but without the oceanic-themed mastery of that album. At 2:12 the track is joyfully exciting. Although “L” is a bit more laid-back, it still has a danceable aspect to it that fits well into the collection of this album.
A bit heavier on the kickdrum, heavier bass and quicker BPM, “Dye” has a mellow tone and sets itself up as an ideal canvas for a half-time drum n bass remix.
“See,” a personal favorite, starts with claps and a sultry bassline buildup. It has an esoteric vibe that drives the album, maybe giving the listener a chill. A nice little breakdown around the two minute mark is smile-worthy. There are memories of trance melodies scattered throughout.
Apogee is recognized as either the climax of something, or astronomically when the moon’s orbit is furthest from planet earth. The track of the same name may have to relate mostly to the latter. This is not a track that peaks in energy but seems to hit the next step after the relatively turned down three tracks before. “Apogee” is that step furthest back before Tycho brings the sound to the forefront again with “Spectre,” another previously released single. The ranging tonal blips of “Spectre” continue the upbeat joy wave that the album sets out to arouse. In order, this song brings a cyclical vibe, which perhaps coincides with the sphere artwork of the album, done by Hansen himself as design artist ISO50.
The album closes out with "Plains," a minimal sound, and an airiness that is prominent in Dive.
Awake is an album that can be listened to incessantly and still keep you constantly in awe. It inspires self-awakening, opening into an illumination of a unique blend of realism and surrealism. Mesmerizing and comforting, it would not be a stretch to call Tycho a shamanic music man.
Grade: A
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