The prolific Argentinian composer Pablo Embon has just released his 25th record to date – the fantastically titled new album, Plateaus & Other Enchanted Lands – and if its genre of ‘symphonic jazz fusion’ isn’t enough to pique your interest, Pablo’s delectable array of eccentric instrumentation and art-rich chaos is destined to transform your perspective.
“Jingle Jells” sets the scene for this 12-track record; what first appears as an easy-listening jazz piece is soon splattered and warped by saxophone solos, sci-fi riffs, xylophones, clean guitar jams, and soothing piano movements which descend into rogue, rhythmic interludes.
This record floats through moods both familiar and estranged, barely settling in any one place for too long before stunning the listener with a new quirk, whether it be an Irish-inspired fiddle moment, a dreamy East Asian flute melody, a ‘deep in the jungle’ theme, or a full orchestral piece.
From pieces centred in clear-skied optimism to the supernal, movie soundtrack-like mysteries of “Good Days Ahead” and the Hans Zimmer-like “Derailed,” Pablo Embon serves such absolute bravery through the breadth of his composition and unlikely inspirations that it’s almost impossible to fathom that Plateaus… is the work of one man alone. Did we mention Pablo performed, recorded, mixed, and mastered this entire record by himself? An instant icon in our eyes.
If you’re seeking a new album that breaks all molds, whisks you into a dreamstate, and trails you through the vivid colours of fantasy, Plateaus & Other Enchanted Lands is, without doubt, the record for you.
Our final verdict? Highly recommended.
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BELOW: Listen to Pablo Embon and check out his music on Amazon Music, Spotify, YouTube Music and more. Please support Pablo Embon by visiting his website and playing, downloading, and/or purchasing his music. And, as always, thank you for supporting real music.
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