Adam Kalviainen aka AK is a solo musician from Ontario who recently released From Man to Machine. The concept Kalviainen explains is somewhere between Westworld and The Terminator. He says From Man to Machine “is a concept album which follows a man's journey to discover he is actually a robot, sent from the future to save mankind. However, during his time with humans, he has learned to hate them and plans to destroy the earth.” The thing I thought was a very original thought was that the album transforms from acoustic instrumentation into electronic synths and elements.
I’m not exactly sure the vibe Kalviainen was trying to paint at times but I don’t think the EP was trying to take itself too seriously which I thought was a good thing. Either way I like where Kalviainen’s head was at with this EP and can appreciate a narrative. The EP starts with “In Your Mind” which is comprised of a couple of strummed major and minor chords and vocal melody which have a melancholy folk vibe. “Every Morning” is the highlight. I loved the vocal melody and slide guitar. I have to admit the lyrics could be interpreted as a straightforward song about lost love. Up next is “Need Your Greed” which has a southern blues vibe and this felt like the transitional piece because of the synth that comes into the song. “The Time Is Now” was another highlight that is a hybrid. The song contains subterranean NIN inspired synth noises as well as heavy distorted guitars. I had to chuckle when I heard “Ima Robot.” Considering this was the point when he was destroying the humans the music was really hopeful, fun, light, danceable and even has a cartoonish cliche feel to it. I thought that was great. “To Infinity and Beyond” sounded like a chiptune song which could be the end song to an old video game. Concept aside From Man to Machine has some solid music. Take the ride.
1 Comment
Adam Kalviainen
6/29/2018 06:03:11 am
Jamie. Thanks for the great review! You hit the nail right on the head. I’m glad you enjoyed the album concept and the acoustic to electronic transition. I’m also pleased you understood the “not too serious” aspect of the album and am happy this came through in the music. I had a lot of fun making this album and hope more people get to enjoy giving it a listen!
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