We described his 2018 album, Calm & Kind, as “Energetic. Uniquely all his own. Enticing electronica.” “…brimming with originality.”
Since then, former punk-rocker and Rochester, New York-based electronic artist and producer, Mad Hugs (a.k.a., Jeffrey Hull), has been busy working on other projects such as Uplift IV, Microscopic Kingdom, and his latest collection of sonic-electro, Silent Old Man, a world of sound where the abstract meets the math.
HERE’S WHAT WE DUG MOST…
Opening with the aptly titled, Hopeful Dreams, Hull introduces us to the album with a light collection of percussive hits, and a truly hopeful abstract synth melody which builds and culminates at the 1:56 mark. This is chill music for active minds everywhere.
The mood and energy of, Sentimental, pick up where Hopeful Dreams left off. Percussion which is light and airy, uptempo and abstract scatter about here and there beneath a reversed-sounding synth melody. It’s pretty cool.
Imagine if Tom Cruise’s 1986 film, Legend, was rebooted in today’s digital, high-tech, electro-culture. Something Beautiful would be on the sound score. Tell me I’m wrong.
OUR FAVORITE TRACK… In the Center offers massive waves of ambient synth panned wide in both ears to create an oceanic soundscape that is vast and soothing. It’s our favorite track.
The last few moments of Less Mindful… just lovely.
Close your eyes while listening to, To Be, and feel your mind getting pulled into a Blade Runner-esque world. The order—and lack of order—both have stunning moments.
IN CONCLUSION…
Simultaneously abstract and ordered. Frayed and focused. Anxious and soothing. A collection every bit as unique as his previous works. Mad Hugs’ (a.k.a., Jeffrey Hull) latest album, Silent Old Man, is a trip across infinite thoughts and emotions in one fell swoop. Although undeniably driven by percussion and rhythm, Silent Old Man, consistently provides one stirringly hopeful melody after another, a backdrop of encouragement and zest for life to come. Those who enjoy experimental electro-artists with quality production will enjoy this record.
WHOSE LOVECHILD…?
Nuta Cookier meets Forest Robots…
BELOW: Listen to Mad Hugs’ album, Silent Old Man, and connect with his website and social media platforms. Please support Mad Hugs by visiting him online, and playing, downloading, and/or purchasing his music! And, as always, thank you for supporting real music!