Genre: Alternative, Soft Rock, Folk
Reviewed: 10 October 2023
In the magical realm of music, where artists cast their lyrics like spells and melodies dance like ethereal spirits, occasionally, a young prodigy emerges from the depths of obscurity, commanding attention with an unexpected opus. Such is the case with Sonder the Africanime and their latest offering, "The Swamp Forest Siren."
At the tender age of 22, this African musician unfurls their wings, taking flight in the realm of alternative soft rock and folk, diverging from their previous works, (Petrichor's Melody & PINK FLOYD IS A GUITAR ) that hinted at a much wilder, untamed sound. A versatile artist with immense talent, Sonder enchants listeners with their soothing and calming compositions, providing a much-needed sense of clarity in a world consumed by chaos.
From the first strum of their guitar chords to the resounding beats of the drums by special guest 2KA, Sonder's musical prowess is undeniable, their choice of collaborators is unprecedented, each feature doing justice to the album. Features include frequent collaborator, Wolffisdead, Mxmnt & 2KA on the Drums. With each note, they delicately weaves together a tapestry of emotions, invoking a range of feelings that stir the soul. Their introspective lyrics, brimming with raw honesty and vulnerability, penetrate deep within, hindering healing while simultaneously serving as a catalyst for introspection, songs like Empty, Figment & Death's Poem capture this beautifully.
However, while Sonder's talent shines brightly, the mission behind "The Swamp Forest Siren" remains somewhat unclear. The album, with its ten tracks, embarks on a tumultuous journey through the artist's innermost thoughts and emotions. But the first half of the album feels dense and disorganized, like a cluttered attic of emotions that yearns for a sense of coherence. It's a precarious balancing act, a seesaw of brilliance and shortcomings.
Undeniably, the production quality of "Swamp Forest Siren" is more matured than their previous projects ("PFIAG" & "Petrichor's Melody"), illustrating growth and evolution as an artist. But in their pursuit of pushing boundaries, Sonder traverses uncharted territories, experimenting with their singing style (on songs, "Agony" & "Just Chill"), causing moments of disharmony that disrupt the overall harmony of the album. It's an audacious move that falls short, failing to add substantial value to the music landscape.
Yet, amidst the highs and lows of this emotional rollercoaster, "The Swamp Forest Siren" retains the power to captivate. The lilting melodies and enchanting aesthetics transport listeners to ethereal realms, where they can momentarily escape the burdens of reality, they effortlessly does this on the song "Blind". Sonder's ethereal voice, laden with vulnerability, remains a golden thread that ties the album together, infusing even the weakest moments with a delicate, haunting charm.
In the final analysis, "The Swamp Forest Siren" emerges as a bittersweet testament to an artist finding their footing, teetering on the precipice of greatness. Sonder the Africanime's immense talent shines through despite the album's flaws, leaving a lasting impact on those willing to delve into its complex depths. As the sun sets on this emotional expedition, one can't help but wonder what lies ahead for this young prodigy whose musical journey has only just begun.