Fidel Beserra Archives | Right Chord Music Blog

Washer Dryer Get Us In A Spin ‘Washer EP’

rightchord — Tue, 11 Mar 2025 09:26:14 +0000

Washer Dryer’s debut EP, Washer, is an engaging introduction to the indie rock duo of Alex and Karen.

Washer Dryer – Washer

Written and recorded while they were living in New York, the EP reflects the push-and-pull of city life—staying, leaving, finding hope, and losing it again. Across five tracks, the duo leans on enveloping melodies, well-placed harmonies, and a stripped-down approach that pretty much defines their style.

The opener, “Not Like Yesterday,” gets things moving with a fuzzy guitar tone, a driving drum beat, a confident vocal lead from Karen, and a chorus hook that is immediately catchy and emotionally charged.

“Washer” is an intimate debut with strong melodies, rich harmonies, and a raw, DIY spirit. It’s also proof that good music doesn’t need much to leave a lasting impression.

The mellower “City Is An Animal” slows things down. Built around gentle acoustic progressions and layered harmonies, it has Karen and Alex sharing vocals and perfectly complementing each other’s unique timbres. The arrangement is simple but effective, letting the melodies give the song its emotional pull.

“Baby Baby Baby“ keeps things slow with a bluesy sway, led by a steady, pulsating bass line. Alex takes the verses with a calm, focused delivery before Karen steps in to harmonize. The restraint in the arrangement works in the song’s favor, letting the duo’s vocal chemistry shine.

“Undertow” picks up the pace again with an upbeat rhythm and a strong vocal performance from Karen, backed by Alex’s harmonies. The effect-laden guitars build nicely toward the choruses, adding momentum and punch to them.

Closing track “Oblivion” leans more into indie pop, with restrained instrumentals and a bigger focus on atmosphere. It’s less about big hooks and more about setting a mood, rounding out the EP with a softer, more intimate touch.

Washer carries a sense of intimacy that feels personal without being insular. The production strikes a balance—clean enough to let the vocals and melodies shine, yet raw enough to preserve the duo’s DIY aesthetic. This hands-on approach extends beyond the music, as seen in the EP’s cover and video, which feature a clay recreation of the duo’s NYC bedroom inside a fish tank—a process that reflects the same care poured into the songs themselves.

I see Washer as an intimate and deliberate effort, unpretentious in its delivery, but that’s exactly why it works. It’s a collection of songs that showcases great elements without overdoing anything, which allows Washer Dryer to step into the indie scene with a clear sense of identity. The duo has a knack for memorable melodies and strong vocal work, making this a solid start with plenty of potential.

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Words Fidel Beserra

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Allen Constantine Creates Beauty With ‘Little Arguments’

rightchord — Mon, 04 Nov 2024 11:08:43 +0000

Romanian composer Allen Constantine’s Little Arguments is an album that fuses classical and electronic music to create hauntingly beautiful soundscapes.

Allen Constantine – Little Arguments

Educated in classical music at the University of Theatre and Arts in Bucharest, Constantine’s background in scoring for video games and films is apparent in the album’s grandiose cinematic scope. Drawing inspiration from contemporaries like Jóhann Jóhannsson, Ólafur Arnalds, and Max Richter, Constantine channels his influences while crafting a distinctly personal sound, blending acoustic strings, piano, synths, and electronic textures into a single cohesive force.

As the third Allen Constantine album I’ve reviewed for Right Chord Music, Little Arguments feels like his finest and most emotional work to date. It’s a beautiful exercise in mood creation and sombre reflection, moving through soundscapes that evoke melancholy and introspection but with palpable undertones of optimism.

The record opens with “Nostalgia,” setting a tone of quiet melancholy tinged with a hopeful undercurrent. Here, Constantine introduces us to a sonic world that feels both intimate and expansive, as if each note holds memories of better times. The track balances the sombreRo with the nostalgic, establishing a foundation for the remainder of the album.

In its haunting yet beautiful nature, Little Arguments is the perfect soundtrack for deep reflection and life-changing soul searching.

“Morning Overture” lifts the atmosphere, painting a sonic picture of sunrise with its lush strings and sweeping energy. This piece feels cinematic and almost uplifting, like the perfect soundtrack for a new and challenging beginning.

“When Words Fail, Music Speaks” is another standout, combining electronic textures with orchestral elements to create an immersive mood. There’s an undeniable richness in the way Constantine balances the organic with the synthetic, building an atmosphere that feels both meditative and deeply stirring.

The title track captures the album’s ethos with its use of electronic percussion and a driving sense of crescendo. The piano and keys punctuate the song, bringing a melodic accessibility that’s almost catchy—a rarity in modern instrumental music. This piece exemplifies Constantine’s ability to make the intricate feel effortless, delivering musical arguments that resonate without words.

Another notable track is “The Burden of Thoughts,” where Constantine’s string-layered piano sets a sombre tone. It’s a poignant exploration of introspection, capturing the raw and fluctuating emotions of being lost in thought. The track’s structure mirrors this journey, moving gracefully through phases of tension and release, and leaving the listener with a sense of unresolved contemplation.

With “Society’s Sonata,” Constantine delves into more intricate, possibly even darker tones, rounding out the album with a thoughtful exploration of collective experience.

Ultimately, Little Arguments stands as Constantine’s most mature work, a modern neoclassical achievement that merges classical and electronic elements with grace and intensity. The album feels like a conversation—a series of musical “arguments” where each piece presents a distinct perspective, inviting listeners to engage, reflect, and find their own stories within Constantine’s evocative sonic palettes.

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Allen Constantine’s ‘Louder Than Words’ Deserves A Second Look

rightchord — Tue, 20 Feb 2024 06:48:45 +0000

Recently, we had the opportunity to review the neoclassical album Opus’85 by the independent Romanian composer Allen Constantine. Now, we take a retroactive look at Louder Than Words, his debut full-length effort released in 2022.

Louder Than Words, in the vein of Opus’85, is an exploration of neoclassical instrumental soundscapes. In music, conveying emotions through instrumental melodies can often surpass verbal expression, and, with Louder Than Words, Constantine achieves just that.

The album seamlessly blends electronic and classical elements, offering listeners a fusion that reflects both the machine-like aspects of contemporary society and the inherent beauty found in tradition and heritage. Constantine skillfully intertwines organic and digital synths to lay an enveloping groundwork, which is then complemented by the haunting, highly evocative qualities of a string quartet.

“Evolution”, the album’s opening track, sets the tone with its gradual buildup of synth layers, accompanied by poignant piano melodies and ethereal string bursts. While it serves as a mere teaser, clocking in at just over two minutes, it effectively establishes the atmospheric and enigmatic ambience that pervades the album.

Evoking mood and atmosphere with absolute taste, Louder Than Words by Allen Constantine succeeds as a rewarding neoclassical album.

Another highlight, “Fragile Motion”, showcases the strings taking centre stage, adding a sense of progression atop the synth-infused background. This track gracefully evolves into a poignant composition, demonstrating Constantine’s ability to evoke emotion through his instrumental pieces.

The titular piece stands out as a slow-burning exercise in mood and atmosphere. It intertwines synth textures, piano motifs, and string arrangements to create a nostalgic yet contemporary soundscape, reflecting the clash of two worlds amidst the relentless march of time. Then, the aptly-titled “Closure” emerges, delivering soft piano passages that provide a fitting conclusion to the record.

However, it is “Existence” that shines as my personal favourite. The track builds steadily, with piano chords crescendoing alongside the eloquent strings, evoking an elegiac and phantasmagoric atmosphere that stirs a range of emotions.

Louder Than Words by Allen Constantine is a strong debut album that showcases the artist’s talent for crafting evocative neoclassical compositions. Through a careful balance of electronic and classical elements, Constantine creates a sonic landscape that overcomes the need for words to evoke deep emotional resonance.

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Velvet Jeanie And The Gipsy-Tinged Adventure ‘Mr Nick’

rightchord — Sat, 09 Sep 2023 06:40:30 +0000

‘Mr. Nick’ by Velvet Jeanie delivers a sinister yet infectious sonic outing that should appeal to those looking for well-crafted, intelligent pop/rock.

Velvet Jeanie – Mr Nick

As a solo artist and singer-songwriter hailing from Dalmeny, Australia, Velvet Jeanie draws inspiration from a diverse array of artists, including iconic acts such as Kate Bush, Danny Elfman, Queen, and Madness. This eclectic yet ultimately cohesive mix of influences is evident in the composition of “Mr. Nick”.

Structured like a circus-themed waltz, the song begins life as an ominous, creeping affair, with haunting piano and organ passages providing the initial groundwork. As it progresses, the accordion, guitar, horns and strings weave in and out, punctuating the song with phantasmagorical and highly evocative bursts of melody. Then, enter the vocals.

A haunting yet irresistible outing, Mr. Nick is a formidable, gipsy-tinged pop song.

Velvet Jeanie’s vocals are distinctive and enigmatic, and her performance adds an additional layer of eccentricity and sombre charm to the proceedings. It’s clear that she has a keen sense of storytelling, as the song unfolds like a dark, Eastern Europe-influenced fairy tale.

After a crescendo of sorts, “Mr. Nick” crashes under at just over the five-minute mark, leaving a truly lasting, obscurity-fuelled impression.

Lyrically, the song is anchored in the theme of good vs. evil, which unfolds in the context of a brave stand against Mr. Nick, a greedy, soulless businessman, and his predatory behaviour. An old theme, sure, but one that is perfectly executed and that seamlessly fits the piece’s musical structure.

The song is also accompanied by an immersive, richly produced music video that perfectly captures the track’s mood and enhances its appeal.

Blending catchy hooks with gypsy flavours and Eastern Europe influences, the exotic, almost esoteric “Mr. Nick” is simply an exceptional number that demands repeated listens.

In short, Velvet Jeanie is an artist to watch, and “Mr. Nick” is a vivid testament to her creative potential.

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Mean & Filthy Share ‘Shades Of Red’

rightchord — Wed, 09 Aug 2023 05:37:06 +0000

‘Shades Of Red’ by Mean & Filthy is a mid-paced alternative rock/metal number that features a blend of prog-metal-inspired riffs, imposing vocals, eastern-influenced melodies and heavy-handed drumming.

Mean & Filthy – Shades Of Red

Mean & Filthy are a Glasgow-based alt-rock band, characterized by a blend of heavy riffs, anthemic chords, and warm vocal harmonies. Their diverse influences, such as rock, metal, funk, hip-hop, and electronica, have shaped their writing into a blend of the vintage and the contemporary, and with ‘Shades Of Red’, they deliver yet another heavyweight number.

“Shades Of Red is a remarkable blend of sledgehammer riffs and haunting vocal melodies.”

From the start, the gargantuan prog-metal riffs pulsate with vigour, providing the groundwork for the dramatic vocals to unfold, which pierce through the layers of sound and carry a haunting quality that perfectly complements the riffs.

Then, the evocative pre-chorus builds anticipation, setting the stage for further atmospherics during the chorus. The song also features an interesting bridge section with loads of dynamic rhythm guitar and layered vocals before crashing over amidst an avalanche of riffs.

Other aspects of the song worthy of mention are the drumming and bass lines. Their strong rhythmic patterns add a further layer of complexity that elevates the composition and add further elasticity and weight to the guitar assault.

Also, ‘Shades Of Red’ features an intriguing element with the eastern-influenced melodies/scales that weave seamlessly into the song’s fabric. This addition adds a touch of exoticism, one that, for example, resembles the sound of prog-metal acts like Opeth and Tool.

Overall, appealing to rock and metal fans alike, ‘Shades Of Red’ blends precise technique with catchy songwriting to create a hard-hitting, memorable piece.

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Shaven Primates Share Post Punk Album ‘Birds Aren’t Real’

rightchord — Wed, 09 Aug 2023 05:28:14 +0000

Shaven Primates, a darkwave and proto/post-punk outfit hailing from Oxford, UK, deliver an iconic affair of introspection and social commentary with ‘Birds Aren’t Real’, their latest album.

Shaven Primates – Birds Aren’t Real

Drawing inspiration from the likes of The Velvet Underground, Kate Bush, Tool, Prodigy, Yes, The Clash, David Bowie, Porcupine Tree and Pink Floyd, the group has crafted a collection of dark, sonically rich compositions with a strong subversive edge.

The album opens with “Fade Away”, a mid-paced alt-rock number that immediately plays out on the offensive, boasting a pulsating bassline, biting vocals, and well-placed synthesisers. The song’s near-punkish assault adds a raw appeal to the proceedings, setting the tone for the visceral thought-provoking journey that awaits.

Birds Aren’t Real is a memorable showcase of thoughtful post-punk, one that perfectly blends vivid lyricism and gripping soundscapes.

“Decision” delves into a darker and more gothic sound, reminiscent of early 80s goth rock. The song tackles the sensitive subject of suicide and its profound impact on those immediately close. With symphonic, orchestral layers, and atmospheric bursts of synths, the song masterfully captures the emotional weight of the event, while an abrasive, heavy guitar sound provides an additional element of roughness.

“Silicon Implants” is a bluesy heavy rocker with intense guitar riffs, a funky groove and rapid-fire rap-like vocals, boasting a contagious chorus and a dynamic bridge. For the lyrics, the band uses historical and contemporary references to explore how misinformation and manipulation impact the world.

“Unmasked,” on the other hand, is a more laidback piece, focusing more on atmosphere than power. The evocative vocals and atmospheric, hazy instrumentation create the perfect platform for the heartfelt lyrics about autism to unfold, which add to a truly haunting piece.

The title track concludes the record on a high note. A riff-driven alt-rock number with a full-on barrage of fuzzy guitars and an infectious chorus, it delves once again into themes of conspiracy and propaganda. The band’s lyrical prowess shines as they explore the world of misinformation and conspiracies atop a punchy soundscape of post-punk attack.

Overall, ‘Birds Aren’t Real’ is an offering that unapologetically explores the political and personal dimensions of the human condition through dark yet infectious indie/post-punk. If you appreciate thought-provoking music with an edge, ‘Birds Aren’t Real’ is a must-listen, and Shaven Primates are a band to watch closely as they continue to make an impact in the independent U.K. scene.

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David OFMG Shares The Dreamy ‘For What It’s Worth’ EP

rightchord — Sat, 29 Jul 2023 07:00:42 +0000

david ofmg’s ‘for what it’s worth’ EP takes listeners on an immersive indie rock/pop ride, showcasing his talent and solid songwriting skills.

david ofmg – for what it’s worth EP

david ofmg, a self-taught musician from Ireland, began his musical journey playing with original bands in local pubs. Specializing in guitar and piano, he later became a sought-after session man in Dublin. After seven years in the industry, David found his voice as a songwriter, crafting a genre-blending sound that fuses dream pop, shoegaze, emo, and alternative rock. Influenced by artists including Devin Townsend, Bon Iver, James Blake, Joe Jackson, Brian Eno and Frank Ocean his music is characterized by an ambient yet catchy nature and a strong emotional appeal.

The collection opens with ‘to get where we are’, immediately setting the stage with its evocative indie rock vibes. The song’s gradual progression from a quieter start to a more effusive display of hazy guitars and dreamy textures is nothing short of compelling.

“for what it’s worth is an immersive indie pop/rock offering, brimming with both nuance and catchiness.”

Moving on to ‘it all remains the same again’, david effortlessly shifts gears, presenting a dancing pop number that features an enveloping vocal display, with the vibrant arrangement creating a positive mood and atmosphere.

‘somewhere’, on the other hand, unveils a more laidback and gentle side, enveloping the listener in a warm embrace of bedroom pop aesthetics. The quieter vocal performance and skilfully incorporated guitar licks add another nice touch of subtlety to the proceedings.

On “City,” david focuses more on electronic elements, resulting in a dynamic, engaging tune. The song’s driving rhythms and well-placed synth bursts infuse an infectious energy that is sure to make an immediate impact.

The EP concludes on a high note with ‘note to myself’, another dreamy, evocative piece, and ‘secret club’, which builds slowly before crashing amidst an avalanche of fuzzy guitars.

Overall, ‘for what it’s worth’ showcases David ofmg’s prowess as both a strong performer and songwriter. The album’s blend of indie rock and pop sensibilities, along with the occasional touch of electronica, should speak to every fan of DIY rock/pop.

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Cosmo Blue Reflect On The ‘Sweet Moments’

rightchord — Fri, 28 Jul 2023 07:22:25 +0000

Australian alternative rock band Cosmo Blue delivers a catchy indie gem with ‘Sweet Moments’.

Cosmo Blue – Sweet Moments

Cosmo Blue is an alternative/indie rock band hailing from Sydney, Australia. According to frontman Michael, their sound is “an amalgamation of all things weird and wonderful”. Seemingly inspired by bands like The Strokes, The Police and Arctic Monkeys, the band’s sound should appeal to alt-rock fans everywhere.

From the start, ‘Sweet Moments’ immerses the listeners in a world of pulsating rhythms and bright melodies. At the core of this uptempo indie number lies a punchy bass line and a driving drum beat, forming a solid combo that propels the song forward, with the swirling guitars effortlessly soaring alongside the rhythm. Atop the mix, the confident and engaging vocal performance is simply magnetic.

The band also skilfully incorporates the right touch of synth passages, sprinkling the song with additional spice and enhancing its colour and appeal. These well-crafted electronic elements interweave with the rest of the instrumentation, providing the song with a nice retro-flavoured edge.

“Charming and magnetic, Sweet Moments is a rock-solid indie number with nice touches of nostalgia.”

Cosmo Blue’s solid musicianship and tight cohesion shine through, as each member plays their part and contributes to the song’s pull. The chemistry between the members is palpable, and it’s evident that they are on a collective mission to leave a lasting impression in alternative/indie listening circles.

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Frank Joshua Shares The Evocative ‘Wonderful You’

rightchord — Wed, 19 Jul 2023 08:05:51 +0000

A slow-paced ballad adorned with layers of synths and pop-infused electronic textures, Frank Joshua’s ‘Wonderful You’ invites listeners into a world of poignant beauty.

Frank Joshua – Wonderful You

Frank Joshua is a dream pop/indie rock artist based in London with an ear for crafting rich melodic edges. He now continues his tradition of high-quality single releases with ‘Wonderful You’.

‘Wonderful You’ envelops the senses with a dreamlike atmosphere, crafted through the seamless integration of synths and electronic textures. The song unfolds at a slow pace, allowing the music to breathe and evoke a profound emotional response. As Joshua’s vocals glide over the mesmerising instrumentation, his soothing voice becomes a vehicle for lyrics that resonate with tender introspection.

“Melancholic and evocative, Wonderful You is dream pop at its very best.”

The strength of the song lies not only in its musicality but also in its ability to evoke mood and atmosphere. Joshua’s voice possesses a vulnerability that effortlessly draws the listener in, forging a deep connection, and as it progresses, the song ultimately becomes a platform for contemplation of life’s beauty amidst its inherent melancholy.

Overall, ‘Wonderful You’ by Frank Joshua is a moody and melancholic gem. As an indie pop/rock artist, Joshua shines with his unique artistry and melodic inclinations, leaving a lasting impression on those who dwell long enough in the evocative tapestry of his compositions.

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pMad Unleashes Dark Fury

rightchord — Wed, 19 Jul 2023 08:04:16 +0000

pMad’s ‘Fury’ is a spellbinding darkwave composition that seamlessly merges electronica and metal elements.

pMad, the gripping solo music project led by Paul Dillon from Portumna, Co. Galway, Ireland, blends post-punk, gothic indie rock, darkwave, and even metal. Topping independent charts worldwide and with two albums released, ‘Who Why Where What’ (2022) and ‘I in Power’ (May 2023), pMad’s music delves into the human experience, embracing imperfections and addressing global issues like the climate crisis. With hypnotic compositions and a commitment to authenticity, pMad delivers truly engaging soundscapes with uncompromising grit.

With an intense, mid-paced allure and a hypnotic vocal delivery, ‘Fury’ balances between danceable 80s energy and ominous contemporary undertones. The clever incorporation of modern electronica elements also adds a nice layer of texture, seamlessly blending with the metallic resonance of the heavy metal-inspired guitars.

“Equally ominous and bouncy, Fury is a memorable darkwave number.”

Lyrically, the song encapsulates the internal struggle of indecision and rage. The repeated mention of “fury” emphasises the overwhelming emotions that consume the mind and head. While simple and straightforward, the lyrics really add to the song’s hypnotic nature.

Overall, ‘Fury’ is an enthralling piece that captures the listener from the very beginning. It’s dancing yet foreboding nature creates a sense of anticipation, building an atmosphere that is both exhilarating and haunting. It also solidifies pMad’s reputation as an act with the prowess to craft music that pushes boundaries and ignites the imagination. Make sure to connect with him on social media for more of his brand of unique darkwave/post-punk.

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