Darren Sullivan is an artist from California who recently released Alternative Reconstruction. He states that the theme of the album is how we adapt and reconstruct ourselves through life. Each song encompasses ideas or stories about people who change for the better or the worse.
The themes on Alternative Reconstruction may be connected but it’s a little hard to find similarities between the songs. Similar to his previous release Morose Techno Sullivan doesn't seem to care for creating a signature sound. That being said I think this is his best release. The production is upgraded and the songs in general felt like they were written better. Up first is “Turning About.” The song has a pulsating rhythm that is created with the bass and drum work. I liked what the guitars were doing which was creating a cloud like atmosphere. It felt unconventional and had me intrigued. “Whatever Is Wrong” is another song that has a fast, kinetic beat and combines distorted power chords with an almost Les Claypool type of bass line. The songs goes into a number of different directions which were unique. I always like a good surprise. “Can't Live Without You” felt a little more straightforward with catchy hooks while “Shady” had some fantastic acoustic guitar picking that I wanted to hear more of. “Shady” contains some solid instrumental performances. “Validation” felt like a little roller coaster ride through a fun house. The other standouts to me were The Doors-esque “Pink Frost By The Chills” and the most emotionally resonant song “Wait For Me.” Sullivan did a great job of keeping me guessing what was next. I’m usually not a fan of albums that don’t feel cohesive but he goes so far out there at times even within the songs that I appreciated it more. Alternative Reconstruction would be a good introduction to Sullivan’s catalog. I think it might be his most accessible work and arguably has something for everyone. Recommended.
1 Comment
3/31/2018 09:15:48 pm
Matt Jensen. Thank you so much for the kind words. I do try to let each song have its own universe. I really appreciate this amazing review!
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