Pop Electro – The Concordian

Chanda M – Icons of Dreams (Unsigned, 2016)

Nostalgia floats from this dreamy cloud of sounds reminiscent of 90s pop ballads. The intro to “Ghostwriter” feels like a déjà vu of 90s pop-electro, although the beat strangely sounds like a cellphone ringtone. Not to mention, the melody stays on the same slow tempo all throughout, which makes it repetitive. The album is missing a much-needed upbeat dance rhythm. “Cosmic Rapture” captures Chanda’s angelic soft voice in a lullaby that will send you on a trip to heaven. However, it could put the best of us to sleep with it’s monotone tempo. Chanda’s voice is beautiful and romantic on the track “High School Love,” as she asks a question that one might ask their high school sweetheart 10 years down the road: “Do you remember me?” Overall, Chanda remains within the same vocal range and tempo all throughout this EP. The songs could all blend into one as they sound too much alike.

Trial track: “Ghostwriter”

4/10

Roosevelt – Roosevelt (City Slang, 2016)

Roosevelt takes the classic ‘80s-electro beats and combines them with soft house music rhythms. His melodies are all feel-good, happy sounds with a touch of nostalgia. His song “Wait Up” has a lounge music feel with that ‘80s influence. It’s a song that you will want your favourite club to blast. The beat makes you feel like you are enjoying the sun in Ibiza. His song “Colours” has a more disco, house feel to it. Roosevelt’s soothing voice peaks through with such softness. It’s a dreamy tune that can put you in a trance on the dancefloor. The track “Hold On” starts off with a beautiful rhythm that calls your body to dance. It’s the perfect song for a house dance choreography. Overall, this album is a beautiful combination of ‘80s electro and house/lounge music.

Trial Track: “Wait Up”

9/10