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4 out of 5 stars

Sembari & Afterglo, Escape [Photo Credit: 747274 Records DK]Electronic music producers Sembari & Afterglo collaborate on single “Escape,” a truly captivating, colorful piece of ear candy you don’t wanna sleep on.

Electronic music has become a truly dominant genre these days, something that definitely couldn’t be said years ago. The rise of DJs and producers, cleverly assembling and manipulating a wide variety of sounds, anchored by a sick, hyper-rhythmic beats, has increased exponentially.  That’s awesome.  Even in a crowded market, there’s always room for an intriguing, up-and-comer like Sembari.  Take my word for it – you should definitely check him out.  Inspired by personal favorites such as Flume, ODESZA, and Louis the Child, Sembari proves he’s ‘one to watch’ on his magnificent single, “Escape” alongside Chicago-based producer Afterglo.

Honestly, there’s plenty to love about “Escape.” “Escape” features a simple harmonic progression (four chords essentially) that is looped throughout the course of the record.  Minimalist, in the spirit of electronic music, it’s a great, highly effective fit.  Sembari & Afterglo definitely ‘do work’ with bare bones. At the same time as the aforementioned harmonic underpinnings become established, “Escape” commences with warm, rhythmic, introductory synths that set the tone of the record.  Notably, there are some lovely, warm vocals that match the warmth of the production.  The particular sound is tailor-made for this record.  Adding to the allure is how the pitch-shifted vocals add contrast.  The echoed, ‘call-and-response’ approach that’s used is extremely cool.

There’s even more to gush about. The chorus section is nothing short of the crème de la crème.  The brightness of the sound makes you feel all ‘warm and fuzzy’ on the inside, sigh.  The production can be characterized by its clarity and the overall crispness of the sound. Perhaps the best way to describe it is finesse. Of course, regarding “Escape,” the beat can’t be left out of the mix – it’s fantastic, groovy, and playful.


Final Thoughts

Awesomeness exemplified.  That’s what “Escape” by Sembari and Afterglo is. Both producers do a fantastic job of incorporating a variety of effects to keep things fresh and contribute to the contrast throughout “Escape.” It is the number sound (timbre) contrasts throughout the course of “Escape” that makes it a truly fantastic record.  The balance is amazing.

4 out of 5 stars


Sembari & Afterglo • Escape – Single • 747274 Records DK • Release: 9.21.18
Photo Credits: 747274 Records DK
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the musical hype

the musical hype aka Brent Faulkner has earned Bachelor and Masters degrees in music (music Education, music theory/composition respectively). A multi-instrumentalist, he plays piano, trombone, and organ among numerous other instruments. He's a certified music educator, composer, and a freelance music journalist. Faulkner cites music and writing as two of the most important parts of his life. Notably, he's blessed with a great ear, possessing perfect pitch.

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