Indie Music Album Reviews

QUAERY - Dark Magic Is Real

12/22/2023

QUAERY

Dark Magic Is Real
self-released; 2023

3.9 out of 5

By Matt Jensen

QUAERY emerges as the brainchild of seasoned musical collaborators Erik Schee and Scott Christopher, melding their folk and pop roots with a venture into fresh sonic territories influenced by the contours of contemporary R&B and indie currents.

Their sophomore EP, Dark Magic is Real, unveiled on September 29th, 2023, marks a self-contained exploration, with Christopher and Schee at the helm of songwriting, performance, production and engineering. Kicking off with "Melon In Melancholy," the EP sets its tone with an atmospheric intro steeped in meditative stillness, guided by ethereal synths that gradually find synergy with the vocals before the percussion entwines itself into the mix. The track flirts with dance-like rhythms while veering into ambient spaces, showcasing intriguing production and lyricism that's as captivating as it is enigmatic.

The tantalizing mention of a "Serotonin Toga Party" adds an extra layer of intrigue, culminating in a lush and introspective instrumental outro with faint echoes of post-rock resonance. In "You Could Be You," a similar emotional cadence resonates. The seamless fusion of introspective verses with buoyant, optimistic hooks creates a compelling contrast, as airy synths intermingle with a fascinating interplay of instruments, blurring boundaries in innovative ways. The cyberpunk aura permeates "Don’t Say It," exuding a futuristic, neon-lit vibe through its evocative soundscape.

The track's infectiousness lies in its catchy, gradually building up to a crescendo that culminates in a hook that lingers in the mind. The cohesive thread woven through these three tracks knits the EP together seamlessly, evoking shades reminiscent of the Postal Service while carving out a distinct identity. Dark Magic is Real offers an enticing musical tapestry deserving of exploration and appreciation. Dive in and discover its allure.