Aldo - Rat Race
Pop, Synthpop, Alternative Pop
Budapest, Hungary
Overall Impression: With its magnificent blend of both modern and retro flavorings, "Cat" is a strikingly inventive fusion of synth-based pop genres. Combining an exceptionally strong vocal performance with a plethora of melodically inventive ideas, ANIA has done a wonderful job of capturing that very particular 80's aesthetic whilst applying a modern touch, great work!
Strongest Point(s): To begin with, the vocals are excellent, showing great range and delicate control over tone and dynamics whilst expressing the lyrics with great confidence and heart. I really love the LO-FI opening, it sets up the song perfectly, and that quintessential 80's sounding tom fill is inspired, perfectly introducing the lead vocals with aplomb. The synth-based backing is obviously a great fit for the genre and there are plenty of diverse and texturally interesting sounds throughout that ensure the listener is always kept engaged. Interesting melodic concepts are expertly combined with the diverse tonal palette of the synths to create some great sounding musical ideas, some examples are the downward pitch shift motif heard in the synth chords (first heard at 0:26) the arpeggio sequence beginning at 0:34, and the subtle synth melody that's introduced at 0:48 to support the lead vocals, all these elements keep things sounding fresh and I was continually invested throughout. Lastly, the production is fantastic, with a great amount of polish and clarity, making sure all individual sounds and ideas are easily distinguishable from one another and are expertly placed within the mix, great stuff!
Target Audience Appeal: This certainly fits a number of diverse pop genres, synth, power, and Indie as suggested are definitely the right areas to target, I would also look into the Synthwave genre as well, there are certain elements included in this track that definitely sit alongside the Synthwave style well.
Artist target suggestions: Chromatics, M83, Halsey, Empire of the Sun, Lady Gaga, Capital Cities, Madonna, Tame Impala, St Lucia, Washed Out, Michael Oakley, The Midnight, LeBrock, KRISTINE, Sunglasses Kid, NINA, Wolfclub, LGHTNNG
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About the Reviewer:
Andre is a freelance session musician, composer, and sound engineer based in the U.K. Having studied music production and composition at a degree level, he has taken his passion for all things audio-related and strived to become a competent musician and performer. Being a self-confessed "Guitar Nerd" Andre has been continually studying the guitar, as well as teaching it, helping students both learn the instrument, develop their songwriting, and how to become proficient in home recording.