Robert Ranaldi, the one-man band from Montreal, Canada has been consistently putting out music since 2013 under the name Man And Things. His tidy, four-song EP New End released a year ago offers songs about life’s journey and how each of us go through it in different ways. Known for his use of MIDI instruments, this short collection was recorded and mixed in Ranaldi’s home studio in Long Island, New York.
“Is It Mine?” has a very unique blend of instruments with a steady, slightly distorted electric and an acoustic keeping the rhythm along with an off beat, not literally, but it’s not a regular rock n’roll beat either. There seems to be a lot interesting things going on here, so give this a listen or three. “Pante Myme” sounds light-hearted and happy with a gentle, rolling acoustic rhythm. I’m not sure what this song is about but the keyboard parts make me think of seeing one those organists sitting on the back of a truck bed trailer in a summer parade, which always put a smile on my face. With the next number “Man Down” I sense there may have been some post-Beatles or Harry Nilsson influence here (I’m thinking Lennon’s “Jealous Guy” or George Harrison’s “All Things Must Pass”). If you’re familiar with sadder ‘70s soft rock then you’ll know what I’m getting at and I for one love that stuff – so yeah, this is my favorite. There is some pretty good layering here as well with regard to the vocals, and the addition of drums. Speaking of the vocals, Ranaldi’s voice seems lowered on some parts, which I suspect was intentional. “You Made The Scene” features drums again, rolling picking on guitar and some synth. This one likewise has a sad feel to it, but in more of a nostalgic way as if Ranaldi is remembering a time past or a time yet to come. Either way, New End in my view sounds like a thinking man’s music – intellectual and philosophical in some ways. Good music for spending time alone reflecting on your thoughts and about your life’s journey.
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