Bluedusksun is the solo project from Richard T Beltran. Beltran started off as a drummer but like a lot of drummers wanted to write songs which you usually need melody for. He recently released a self-titled album Bluedusksun which he says is the culmination of two EPs.
The album is a complete DIY bedroom recording and sounds like it. Bedroom recording tends to have a lot of the same issues - like too much reverb, drum sound, thin guitars, etc. Even though some of those issues were present the songs were well written and delivered. The album is atmospheric, acoustic and often melancholy. I liked the vibe right away but the hooks were subtle at best. I thought the most attractive part about the music was the mood he paints. Up first is “Love is the Last Thing to Go” which I thought was a highlight. I really liked the guitar work which reminded me of John Frusciante. The song is dark but also lively which worked out nicely. He sings, “And if you ever see me again Act like you don't know me, my friend.” Up next is “The Simple Complex” which revolves around guitar and vocals. I thought the guitar parts were pretty inventive and the vocal melody was memorable. On that note I thought the vocals needed more clarity in the mix. “Autumn Fire & Evergreen” moves at a very slow pace in its haunting way while “Hey, MIster MIster” and “Half Living in a Half Made Life” were other highlights. The rocking and distorted closer “Devil's Dance” felt a bit out of place compared to the other songs although the song has some inspired moments. The best advice I have for Beltran is to try and work with a producer/engineer next time around. These songs could be taken to another level with better production. I think he has some talent in a number of areas and I was impressed by a majority of the songs. Recommended.
1 Comment
11/24/2017 07:42:25 am
I just want to say I think you guys @Divide and Conquer as a whole are a little unfair to DIY artists. I've read a couple of other reviews at this point, just to clarify my own disappointment, to see if I was the only one that got a less then stellar review, and I have noticed a pattern. Bands with big production value got better reviews then those of us who are just trying our best to get our music out there with whatever means possible.
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