Los Angeles-based multi-instrumentalist, songwriter, and producer Moonrun has shared his debut solo album, Changes, with us.
Though Moonrun’s creative process is multivalent—sometimes materialising as a full band, other times solitary in his home studio where he recorded the record—the music remains intimate, as if each song is a fleeting yet indelible moment captured mid-conversation.
If I had to put just one music label on this album, it would have to be rock n roll, and I am happy to use that term. Of course, we can say indie rock, alt, whatever, and any of those terms; in my opinion, the foundation here is good old rock n roll.
That is not to say that this is dated and not contemporary at all. There is definitely a retro feel to it, in the way that its softness, dreamy elements and slight psychedelia remind me of Fleetwood Mac, with a solid band sound that is not heavy but can still carry the rock tunes wonderfully.
Some moments remind me of The last shadow puppets (a project by the guy from Arctic Monkeys) a little bit, perhaps because of the analog saturation I can hear on the drums or even overall, and some cool vintage reverb/delays and chorus effects on the vocals, as well as things like the panned vocals on ‘Peace of mind on the altar’.
In terms of arrangements, this is definitely guitar-focused, but this ain’t no guitar hero vanity project. Hence, there is an excellent balance in the mixing of the sounds. Also, besides the bass and drums (also drum machine on Day 20, which also made me think “are all the drums programmed here?” – quite a trip!), there are some cool samples, brass instruments and some synths that make this a bit moodier and more cinematic, elements that I personally love.
The vocals are quite understated, with a good range and nicely mixed to sit on top of the music, floating on a cloud of melodies and arrangements. There are some Americana elements here, of course, to be expected. It’s like listening to Brit rock and hoping not to find any Beatles in there! The way these elements blend into the music is similar to how Led Zeppelin did it, seamlessly integrated into the rock sound.
I always like to mention the diversity of songs in an album, because let’s be honest, it just makes for a better listening experience and showcases the different sides of the band, giving us a better sense of their artistry.
Written by Spiros Maus
