Majical Cloudz – Are You Alone? (Matador, 2015)
Majical Cloudz, the chilly synth-laden project of Devon Welsh and Matthew Otto, recently played a sold-out show for the release of their sophomore outing, Are You Alone? The performance was underwhelming, leaving the pop craftsmen at odds with spectators. This begs the question: can Majical Cloudz emulate studio trickery on stage? Radio fodder aims for communal appeal. Are You Alone? opts for the personal synergy between listener and artist. It’s a pop effort that requires the same dense concentration that went into producing it, like performance doesn’t. While the duo thrives on individual strengths, Otto’s skeletal production and electro-tinged flourishes fully embrace Welsh’s intimate narratives. Majical Cloudz operates well inside these confines and their latest becomes all the more rewarding when recognized for what it is—an excellent album.
Trial Track – “Downtown”
8/10
