Reset 89 - Influence

​Reset 89

Influence
self-released

By Matt Jensen
​

Reset 89 approach Influence with a clear fixation on rhythm, texture, and a kind of stripped-down digital aesthetic that doesn’t chase perfection. The album sits somewhere between industrial, new wave, and alternative, but it never fully settles into any one space. I got the sense this was built piece by piece in a home setup, where ideas are captured quickly and left mostly intact. That gives the record a raw, immediate quality, though it also means the cohesion shifts from track to track.  

“The Influencer” opens things abruptly and locks into a rhythm that doesn’t let up. The vocal lines stay minimal, circling a small melodic range without ever pushing toward a big chorus. It works because the groove carries enough weight on its own. Great song that has some interesting transitions!

“Conspiracy Guy” brings in a darker electronic edge that brought to mind Depeche Mode and Nine Inch Nails. The blend of electronic textures and rock elements work really well here, and the percussion has more depth with multiple layers working together. It's very well done sound design.“Fame Addiction” keeps a rigid pulse and continues in that industrial lane, while “RTFM” adds a heavier, fuzzed-out edge without changing the underlying structure.

There are a few moments where the album pulls back. “Dissolving” has a more restrained presence and sits closer to alternative rock. “Say Nothin’” brings in a brighter synth palette that lightens the mood. “Broken Memory” stands apart because of how raw it sounds compared to the rest. It almost feels like it came from a different session. “Preston” includes whispered vocals that are buried so deeply in the mix they nearly disappear. “Obstacle of Truth” lands more clearly and feels more defined.

The production across the album shifts from track to track at times. Some songs hit with a fuller low end, while others feel thinner. It's noticeable when listening front to back. The drum programming is one of the stronger elements and keeps things engaging even when the melodic ideas stay fairly contained.

This isn’t a pristine or overly refined record and leans into a lo-fi vibe and feel. I enjoyed the textures, grooves and mood which have a decent amount of variation. I really enjoyed some of the grooves and the overall feeling this album gave me. Check it out!

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