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Art Rock Trip Hop

Confront the introspective abyss with Locian’s kinetic darkwave art-rock release, Shadow on the Wall

Dance with the darkness within to the tempo of Locian’s most affectingly kinetic electronic art-rock release yet, Shadow on the Wall. The rhythmically augmented earworm from Australia’s most introspective solo artist is so much more than just a sonic drop into the oversaturated airwaves. It intensifies the anticipation for Locian’s forthcoming LP, Fears, Reflections & Shades of Time, as the solo artist continues to define his distinctive electronic rock style, weaving his signature synthesis into the rhythmically charged compositions of philosophical reckoning.

Emotionally charged revelations about facing the hidden aspects of one’s identity diaphanously drift through the installation of dark etherealism as the track’s pulsating synths and sharply defined guitar lines inject a vibrant, high-energy feel into the release which offers a scintillating study in contrasts. It juxtaposes the vulnerability inherent in introspection with the robust instrumental forces that symbolise the tumultuous battle against inner demons.

Originally envisioned as two separate pieces, Shadow on the Wall evolved into a unified narrative that advocates the importance of acknowledging and embracing one’s darker sides. After winning audiences across Sydney and Melbourne over with the single, the core message is set to enlighten the darkwave domain while setting a high bar for cerebral lyricism.

Shadow on the Wall was officially released on September 13; stream the single on all major platforms, including SoundCloud.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Locian became the architect of art-rock therapy with his sophomore single, Power

Artistic intensity is tempered by the dialectical quiescence in the stormily tender confluence of art-rock and trip-hop in the sophomore single, Power, from Sydney’s most promising breakthrough artist, Locian.

Aching reverberations course through the lush architecture of the syncopated progressions, providing the ultimate juxtaposition of discomfort and ease to pay a fitting tribute to the complex interplay of ennui and self-imposed affliction. Locian’s vocals, caressing with each whispered breath, provide the ultimate permission to surrender to the therapeutic virtues of this flawlessly poignant release.

By building into a corrosive industrial electronica sequence towards the outro, which becomes a sonic visualisation of the disorientating soul-tearing nature of self-destructive internal narratives, Locian ensured that Power hit with maximum impact.

If your introspection is more torturous than waterboarding, break free from the poisoned rumination through the resounding philosophy within Power; it’s far cheaper than therapy.

Power will be available to stream on all major platforms, including SoundCloud from May 10th.

Review by Amelia Vandergast