Apollo Ray, the moniker of London-based multi-instrumentalist Louis Pavlo, invites us on a sonic voyage with his debut album, 'In Orbit'. This is more than your basic album, it's an experience - a journey through ethereal soundscapes that blend the familiar with the otherworldly. Imagine a soundtrack to a film set in a parallel universe, where David Bowie, Stereolab, and Angelo Badalamenti collaborate on the score. That's the kind of territory we're exploring here.
Pavlo's musical journey began with classical piano training, evolving into a mastery of composition, production, and even tour management. His past life with the band Jouis, who graced the stages of Glastonbury and other major UK festivals, laid the groundwork for this ambitious solo project.
'In Orbit' was born from two contrasting environments: the vibrant energy of Eastbourne's Echo Zoo Studios and the centuries-old stillness of a French chateau. This duality is woven into the music's fabric. The album seamlessly merges cinematic textures with surreal synths, driven by magnetic grooves and haunting melodies. It's a rich tapestry of sound that evokes a sense of both intimacy and vastness, like gazing at the stars on a clear night.
The influence of Angelo Badalamenti, the composer behind the iconic 'Twin Peaks' soundtrack, is evident in the album's evocative atmosphere. There's a similar sense of mystery and yearning, a feeling that something magical is just around the corner. But Pavlo doesn't simply imitate; he absorbs these influences and transforms them into something uniquely his own.
One of the album's greatest strengths is its ability to balance boldness with delicacy. The music can be both powerful and introspective, shifting effortlessly between moments of grandeur and quiet contemplation. It's a testament to Pavlo's skill as a composer and producer, and his ability to craft a cohesive and captivating sonic experience.
'In Orbit' is an album that demands your attention. It's not background music; it's an invitation to explore the unknown, to lose yourself in a world of sound that is both beautiful and unsettling. If you're looking for something different, something that pushes the boundaries of conventional music, then this is an album you need to hear. Just be prepared to be transported.
Connect with Apollo Ray,
