Mono Hideout - Visions

Released: August 26

Mono Hideout is the moniker for the anonymous artist who created this album filled with a unique combination of tension and relaxation. As such, the artist tells us very little about this release. However, the album does a wonderful job of speaking for itself. Each track sets its own cinematic scene with spacious pads that set forth an air of mystery while repeating melodies provide a slight sense of urgency and apprehension. The cinematic approach lends itself well to thriller type movies that are light on action but heavy on the suspense. But even while there is sense of unease, there are undertones of composure and slight tranquility, signaling that the air of unease enigma is in the process of unwinding. 

Throughout the runtime of the album, the tracks vary in how much they lean in either direction. But some of  my personal favorites lean heavily into the direction of suspense, particularly "Weakness." It only has a few layers but they work so perfectly in tandem to create a scene, one in which I can envision a main character processing and analyzing the wealth of new information they have uncovered. The simple bass line produces a couple of dull buzzes per bar, something akin to a slowed heart beat while the arpeggiated lead carries a forward motion that almost seems to go in circles. Definitely among my favorite moments here.  

The album ends on a rather interesting note with "Last Visions." There certainly feels like less tension here, but more reflection. For much of its length, it seems to swirl around with no particular direction, simply resting in its own intrigue. But then, as the end approaches, these swirling mysteries slowly fade and a gradual rising noise takes over. It slowly grows in volume until it fills the entire soundscape, then it just ends. Abruptly, with no real resolution. It may sound odd, but given the context of the entire album, it makes perfect sense.