Well, dear readers, today we have in our hands and ears a very cool album by the Barcelona-based artist Bioskope. This concept album follows tells a story of self-improvement and acceptance, of finding one's true identity despite the adversities.
Musically, the album could be classified as alternative pop/rock, but it would be ingenerous to limit ourselves to a single label. The synth pop roots are evident, but Bioskope builds and expands their vocabulary drawing from a myriad of different styles.
There are elements of acid rock, especially in the first tracks, with squelchy guitars (characterised by a tasteful use of effects such as the wah) and hypnotic keys. The rhythm section is always interesting, and it does not surprise us reading in the album notes that the artist is an experienced drummer.
Starting from the fourth track the soul/funk/pop side becomes more predominant, with spectacular vocal layers and basslines that could drag on the dancefloor even a stone.
The evolution of the music reflects the progression of the lyrics, that become more optimistic, without ever renouncing a bitter scent in the background, as the tracks go on.
This work represents a very pleasant discovery. It's unpredictable but homogeneous at the same time, it's catchy and deep, multi-faceted but not messy. The production and the arrangements are curated and masterfully juggle all the different elements. Absolutely worth taking the time to listen.