Album Review: Aquafluorescence

Sometimes, it can be hard to captivate a listener with instrumentals alone. But isolaet has mastered the art form. Aquafluorescence is the latest project from Caleb Woodbine, an elusive Pōneke artist whose interest in funk, jazz and electronica pulls together wonderfully into this eclectic sixteen-track collection.

As the quirky title suggests, Aquafluorescence is a playful, polished record, all about explosive sounds and toying with dynamics to a degree of purposeful excess. It uses dynamic range to the greatest extent. Percussive instruments like marimbas and xylophones litter the otherwise synthetic soundscape, mixing whimsical melodies in with thriving rave-inspired elements so that the album is constantly danceable, but offers up its own unique vibe that will undoubtedly put a smile on your face.

The best cuts feel like summer sunshine dawning on your face. Simple Things is an early highlight, pulsing with energy as it rises to squealing, sticky sweet melodies, then falls right when it needs to give you a breather. Beach Day delivers on the joyful visions its name promises. A pumping beat underscores arcade-y keys with moments of impressively satisfying dissonance.

Darker moments like Chromosphere chase darker pursuits, dabbling in minor keys with melodies that scrape against the chords in intentionally grating ways. Imperfection juxtaposes rhythms against each other so harshly, it should come across overwhelming, but instead the clear attention paid to the mix makes it feel crystalline. Every unpredictable beat is exciting, thrilling the listener in how it never takes them quite where they expect.

There’s a fun international influence across Aquafluorescence, too, such as the staccato instrumentation on Setting Sail or the soaring high notes of electroclash-influenced closer Memory Card. The album is noticeably well laid-out to tap into that feeling of taking a journey as you listen. Every track leads into the next organically and smoothly, and such fluidity makes your listening journey fantastically idiosyncratic. Keep an open mind and let the music take you where it needs to – your curiosity will be rewarded.

For those interested in music production, isolaet’s Aquafluorescene is a collection that will open your mind and surely get you inspired. His sonic palette is wide-reaching, but still creates a cleverly personalised style that’s instantly recognisable. Quite simply, this is how you make a brilliant house record.