Dren McDonald – Vox Pterous
Dren McDonald is a well-accoladed composer from the San Francisco Bay area whose newest EP, Vox Pterous, features minimalist, morphing arrangements. Dedicated to lost friends, McDonald succeeds in creating something from nothing, with the result being an exemplary effort that sits at the intersection of contemporary classical and mood music.
The EP opener, “Anchors Up,” is delicate and angelic. There are pedaling strings and rhythmic, choir-like vocals. The interesting bassline brings a supportive groove that roots the swirling void. “Anchors Up” is lovely and trance-inducing. Sections of the whole arrangement fade in and out, offering movement that is very easy to lose yourself in.
Song three, “Aviator Eyes,” has icy guitar at the start. McDonald says so much with so little – the sum is greater than its parts. There is a perfect balance between nothing and everything. The beautiful and haunting vocals and instrumentals are performed by McDonald, Girl Swallows Nightingale, and Paula Frazer. “No one came to find me,” is a succinct lyric that encapsulates the emotion of this song.
The album closer “Fading” is solemn and hopeful. “Fading” begins with a timid explosion of sound that transforms into a guitar trekking toward uncertainty. The bass is the most sure, and the vocals have a somewhat jazzy delivery. Overall, track six is the most sparse of the collection, ending with an ember leftover of from an SOS signal.
To conclude, Dren McDonald’s Vox Pterous is a wonderful release suitable FFO Steve Reich, Ed O’Brien, and Meredith Monk. McDonald’s lyrical and instrumental messages are touching and worthwhile, and the release will leave you seeking more from him. Check out the stunning release on Spotify, Apple Music, and Bandcamp.
Categorised in: Album Reviews
This post was written by Jake Sessanna