I would argue that the theme of “The Synaesthetic Picture Show Now Playing, Pt. 2” from electronic collective Elektragaaz, is as corny as this might sound, imagination. For those unaware Synesthesia is a neurological condition in which information meant to stimulate one sense actually stimulates others. You may have heard when bringing up certain artists who mention being able to see shapes or colors when listening to music, or in some cases even the opposite. Even when looking at the cover art with its almost disorienting overlapping colors dripped in seemingly neon vapor, it’s meant to stimulate us.
This is a no-fat, brilliantly executed and eclectic EP that showcases what this group has to offer and even acts as a wonderful counterbalance to the first part EP that came out earlier this year. It’s almost more of an art piece than a standard musical release with its own universe in which it comes from. You see, Elektragaaz follows in the footsteps that were paved by the Archies, because it’s a virtual band in our world while being a real one in its own fictitious one. I wish there was more to be able to express from that concept, but so far there’s not been much by way of world building and I suspect that by going too deeply into the groups own mythology, it would take away from the personal experience one is meant to have imagining entire worlds with this acting as the soundtrack. The ringleader of Elektragaaz is the reclusive Redband, and his noted interest in pop culture also can be seen across the various tracks with plenty feeling like they’ve come out of a movie. We get shades of 80s crime noir, final fight music you’d expect from a video game, and even your more standard chill-out beats that you can happily play socially with friends around.
This is electronic music meant to be consumed like a film, with your utmost attention. To put it on as background music would honestly be a disservice and I think by allowing yourself to have a more intimate experience with it, you’ll reap more of its rewards. There’s no lyrics anywhere on the album and unless you’re already firmly in the electronic lover category, it might seem a little dense and impenetrable. It’s not noise, it’s really a symphony that’s trying to encapsulate feelings of dreams, fantasy, films and everyday life. I would say it succeeds all of those, even if that by virtue of their being so many styles and sounds on the album it can feel a bit on the tonally jarring side.
To go from the bopping Miami Vice like intro to the more foreboding mythological follow up might be a hard turn for some who were looking to continue vibing off of that, but the back half of the six tracks has more to offer those looking for a groovier and welcoming pace. It’ll be exciting for others to discuss where this album took them in their minds and it’ll be a picture show you won’t soon forget.
Rachel Townsend