Hyde Out brings a daring fusion of nostalgia and modernity on "Moonfactory"
Moonfactory, the latest album from Hyde Out, is a genre-blending odyssey that pays homage to the musical past while propelling itself toward a modern, distinctly fresh sound. As the London-based duo—comprised of Omar Merlo and Jaka Levstek— fans can expect an album that traverses a vast emotional and sonic landscape. Returning to the more melodic and introspective style of their earlier work, like Smoke and Mirrors, Moonfactory takes listeners on a journey of layered pop-rock fusion that feels both timeless and contemporary.
This album is a masterclass in the art of fusion, borrowing elements from 90s British pop rock, 60s and 70s folk, 80s electropop, and the best of modern pop and rock. The result is an album that defies traditional genre boundaries and captivates with its unpredictability. Tracks like the opener “Oblivious” and "Firefly” introduce a melancholic edge, balancing crisp production with introspective lyrics that reveal a darker, more vulnerable side of the duo’s songwriting. These songs serve as the heart of Moonfactory, pulling listeners in with their rawness and depth, and setting the tone for an album that isn’t afraid to explore heavy themes.
The international production, spanning London, Switzerland, the USA, and Australia, enriches the album’s texture, adding a sense of vastness to the sound. “Go High” and “Games We Play” are standout tracks that showcase Hyde Out’s ability to blend rich, inspired melodies with the punchiness of pop rock, creating a perfect storm of catchy hooks and profound lyricism. The instrumentation is lush and intentional; each layer, from jangly guitars to soaring synths, is arranged with precision, lending the album a cohesion that is rare in today’s genre-hopping landscape. The sound feels meticulously crafted yet effortlessly organic, as if each song is revealing itself in real time.
Vocally, Hyde Out shines throughout Moonfactory. The delivery is heartfelt and full of subtle power, moving easily between contemplative and anthemic. The harmonies are beautifully executed, adding an emotional weight that anchors each song’s narrative. There’s a tangible passion in their performance that makes even the quieter moments of Moonfactory feel electrifying. Fans will hear echoes of 90s pop-rock icons, but with a smoothness and polish that makes the sound distinctly Hyde Out.
What’s particularly impressive about Moonfactory is the duo’s ability to create an album that feels cohesive despite the diversity of its influences. Hyde Out has crafted an album that feels like a journey—a collection of songs that, while distinct, flow into one another to create a larger, unified experience. Each track brings its own flavor, yet they all share an undeniable energy and authenticity that makes Moonfactory impossible to pause halfway through.
This record is a clear testament to Hyde Out’s evolving artistry, and Moonfactory will undoubtedly cement their place as one of the most innovative acts in today’s pop-rock landscape.
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