The Driftwood #35: Music Reviews

April 26th, 2023

Electronica and “Plunderphonics”

Adventures on the Floating Island (2019)

by Monster Rally
album coverMuch like Tame Impala, Monster Rally is actually just one guy. He produces a type of music called “plunderphonics,” which, if you haven’t heard of it before, is not for pirates. Most of the music is made up of samples of other songs, twisted and mixed together into something brand new. It leads to a strange, yet wonderful mixing pot of sound. The album, like most of Monster Rally’s music, has a heavily tropical sound. The vibes are immaculate, like a vacation for the ears, beachside with your toes in the sand. It’s warm and inviting, never overstaying its welcome. Any way you slice this mango, it’ll be a tasty reminder of the warm weather yet to come.

 

—Andrew Wiegman, Music Editor
In Decay (2012)by Com Truisein Decay coverSeth Haley, also known as Com Truise, is an American electronic DJ that has gained popularity since 2011. Much of his work contains little to no lyrics, giving his synthwave production the full spotlight. Com Truise’s sound is inspired by electronic genres from the 1980s, providing a contemporary but recognizable feel on his three studio albums released since 2011. Interestingly, Com Truise gained more recognition when he remixed a song with fellow electronic artist Daft Punk for the soundtrack of the film Tron: Legacy (2010).The album In Decay (2012), begins with a calm, welcoming track titled “Open,” which starts the album off with a refreshing sound. Com Truise provides a digitally inspired musical style, and the glimmery track “Alfa Beach,” which is in the center of this album, provides a smooth transition to the second half. I often listen to this album when reading because I can focus and enjoy dreamy music that has no lyrics. This is my personal favorite of Com Truise’s work because it showcases his talent for always adding a bright feel to his albums.
—Kayu Brooks

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