M.A.D.E.S. - Motor

Evil cars and spooky, neon-soaked disco nights would perhaps best be the way to describe M.A.D.E.S.' most recent album "Motor". This quasi-concept album appears to want to tell a story but focuses more on making irresistible electronic mayhem throughout it's eleven track running course taking on darker and melodic aspects of the synthwave genres. Enthralling set sequences set the pace for a killer soundtrack to a movie a la "Christine" wherein a possessed machine rampages throughout the night, slaughtering who and what it wants. 

M.A.D.E.S. does not necessarily deviate from the tropes of the synthwave genre but he has mastered the basics and flourished them with all his synthetic might. What stands out most on the album - aside from the addicting driving beats - is the beautiful production. The sound is crisp and clear and never was there a moment on "Motor" where I was pulled away from the music due to the sound coming off too crushed. To that, I tip my hat to M.A.D.E.S.

My personal favorite song on the album comes in the form of 'Nightkiller', which is easily the song that's most inspired by horror scores of the 80s. Beginning off with some spooky keys and blasts of bass in the beginning, an epic ambiance builds up with the beat until we're heat with an awesome dance tune that never lets up. Every moment of the song adds in something new whether it's an additional synth or new percussive rhythm - and that's how you keep someone's attention. 


While most of the album takes place on the darker side of the synthwave spectrum, there are a few lighter tracks that break up the momentum such as the outro 'Stars', M.A.D.E.S.' previous single 'Miami Life', as well as 'Lights'. The latter of the three features Circe Electro on vocal duties and also so happens to be another one of the best songs on the album. Do not skip out on that one. It would be a sin. 

M.A.D.E.S. has done a brilliant job with his most recent album giving a full length that never dulls. Darker, soundtrack influenced songs mince and mingle with lighter and brighter touches, but sits comfortably together under one roof for a synthwave album ready to leave tire tracks on the road and you in the dust. 


Apr 27 2018