There are some releases that really pique your interest before you’ve even heard them, whether it’s something in the cover art or the bristling potential it’s wrapped in, some releases are just different. Maenda's 'They Say The Sun Is Dying' is one of those releases.
Described by Matthew Op 't Eijnde, the creative force behind Maenda, as “a journey through all the stages of grief,” the new album is a triumphant journey of self-discovery that has been stitched together through a promising blend of rich, sonic tapestries, diverse styles, and atmospheric depth. It’s a creative outlet born from great personal loss and the desire to create a musical narrative that transcends genres, freely blending post-rock and trip-hop, and infused with a myriad of other influences.
From the very first listen, the album stands out for its intricate layering of sounds and its ability to integrate a gorgeous maelstrom of other styles. The foundation lies in its atmospheric quality, which is more than just background music. It’s an immersive experience that truly hooked me into its depth, crafted with a combination of vintage synthesizers.
What quickly becomes evident upon listening to the record is the diverse creativity behind it. Each track illustrates Meanda’s ability to explore and excel in various musical techniques. However, it’s not just about the technical skills here. There is an emotional layer to the music that cannot be overlooked. The album, while not a concept record in the traditional sense, weaves a theme of grief, pain, and ultimately, self-discovery. It’s described as almost a love letter to these emotions, presenting them in a way that’s revealing, and well, new. Or at least, new to me I can say.
It’s rare to find an album that not only experiments with sound but also dives deep into the emotional experience. This thematic depth, combined with the atmospheric and fusion elements, makes ‘They Say The Sun Is Dying’ a unique and utterly captivating release.
This album shows that his work with atmospheric music, crafted with such precision and depth makes me feel like that it can only be described as a masterpiece. The album, from its opening with ‘Let Go’ to the closure provided by ‘The Quiet Dead’, gives you an unwavering commitment to emotional resonance that you will find on this record. Each track, including notable mentions like ‘Winter In Your Eyes’ and ‘Into the Abyss’, contributes to the diverse experience that left me stunned.
‘They Say The Sun Is Dying’ is a rewarding listen, not only for its atmospheric depth but also for its fusion of genres, blending elements of rock, tribal Nordic like folk sounds, among others. This eclectic mix ensures that the album has something to offer to a wide range of listeners, regardless of their musical preferences.
The emotional weight of this album is one of its most striking features, showcasing an immense talent for conveying complex emotions and stories through music alone, often surpassing the communicative power of words. This ability to evoke feelings and stories through sound alone is truly amazing, and it makes this album well worth exploring.
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