After a period of inactivity, Emanate Records return to action with the aptly entitled Pause from label owner Deno Vichas’ own project If.Then.Else. Facing conviction for possession of an exotic herb, Pause was conceived at a traumatic time for Vichas.
While there is an undeniably downbeat undertone to Vichas’ music there is also a consistent air of spacious ambient beauty permeating throughout the entire album. Crackly static tones sit under perfectly constructed melodies and precise beats to create fluid soundscapes. As it progresses the mood of the album shifts between uneasy agitation, quiet reflection and light optimism. By means of example, “Pause” is broodily contemplative, “Waiting” is lighter and more optimistic and “Hold On” is intense and somewhat sinister.
Lush and emotive, Pause is a carefully conceived series of gentle sweeping sonic works created at a crucial juncture in the life of its creator.
