A collaboration between Matt Hales, better known as Aqualung, and Davide Rossi, best known for his work with Goldfrapp and Coldplay, Søren Lorensen definitely ranks as one of 2020's most overlooked albums. You won't find a ton of coverage about it online and that's a shame as it's a gorgeous work that mixes Rossi's brilliant string arrangements and production skills with Hales' wonderful pop songwriting and production savvy. I've been enamored with the work Hales releases as Aqualung, along with his productions for other artists, and this collaboration with Rossi is a truly great work.
Lake Constance opens with "Furrows", showcasing Rossi's swirling violin work joined with electronic beats in its second half. "Bones", "Walker" and "Dirty Threes" are also mostly instrumental pieces that showcase Rossi's strings. "Escape Goat" is haunting, electronically altered vocals, swelling strings and electronic beats combine into a stunning track. Hales is featured on vocals more prominently on highlights "Growing Up Grey In A Black And White World" and "Glow". But it's "Dead Disco" that stands out for me as the finest track on the album. An ethereal sounding electronic track with Hales' vocals soaring over a beautiful melody and Rossi's string arrangements, it's the centerpiece of an album that deserves a lot more attention. It was one of 2020's best.
Favorite tracks: "Dead Disco", "Escape Goat", "Time Machine", "Furrows"
Lake Constance was released April 3rd, 2020 on the Okey-Donkey label.
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