Album Review: Dawnload3r by CYADS

Album Review: Dawnload3r by CYADS

Written By: Dan Eachus

Release Date: April 20, 2020
Genre: Synthwave / Spacewave

Introduction

Usually the reviews I do are for newer, or up and coming releases. However, this time around, I get to review this gem from 2020. In the realm of electronic music, few genres evoke nostalgia and futurism as seamlessly as synthwave, my favorite genre of music. The genre’s ability to blend retro aesthetics with modern sensibilities has garnered it a dedicated following. Among the myriad artists contributing to this movement, CYADS stands out with their debut EP, Dawnload3r. Released on April 20, 2020, this four-track EP offers a sonic journey through neon-lit streets and digital landscapes, capturing the essence of the ’80s while infusing it with contemporary flair.

1. “Time Pilots”

The EP opens with “Time Pilots,” a track that immediately sets the tone for what’s to come. The pulsating bassline, coupled with shimmering synths, creates an atmosphere reminiscent of late-night drives through futuristic cities. The composition is both expansive and intimate, drawing listeners into a world where time is fluid, and the boundaries between past and future blur. The track’s structure is dynamic, with crescendos that build anticipation and moments of respite that allow the listener to breathe before diving back into the sonic tapestry.

2. “Black Chrome Era”

Following the energetic opener, “Black Chrome Era” introduces a darker, more introspective mood. The track’s title evokes images of sleek, polished surfaces reflecting neon lights, and the music delivers on this imagery. Deep, resonant bass tones underpin staccato synth melodies, creating a sense of tension and mystery. There’s a cinematic quality to the composition, as if the listener is navigating through a dystopian metropolis, observing the interplay of light and shadow. The track’s progression is methodical, with each layer of sound adding depth to the narrative being told.

3. “They Live On”

“They Live On” shifts gears, offering a more melodic and uplifting experience. The track’s title suggests themes of legacy and endurance, and the music reflects this sentiment. Bright, arpeggiated synths dance over a steady rhythm, evoking feelings of hope and perseverance. There’s a sense of continuity in the composition, as if the music is a tribute to the enduring spirit of the ’80s electronic scene. The track’s arrangement is intricate, with subtle nuances that reveal themselves upon repeated listens, showcasing the duo’s attention to detail and craftsmanship.

4. “Neuromancers Cyberspace”

The EP concludes with “Neuromancers Cyberspace,” a track that encapsulates the essence of cyberpunk aesthetics. The title references William Gibson’s seminal novel Neuromancer, a cornerstone of the cyberpunk genre, and the music pays homage to this influence. The track is a sonic exploration of digital realms, with glitchy effects, sweeping synths, and a driving rhythm that propels the listener forward. There’s a sense of urgency in the composition, as if navigating through a virtual landscape filled with both wonder and danger. The track’s complexity and layered textures make it a fitting conclusion to the EP, leaving the listener with a sense of having embarked on a journey through time and technology.

Production and Sound Design

One of the standout features of Dawnload3r is its production quality. The EP boasts a polished sound that highlights the duo’s expertise in sound design. The analog synths used throughout the album provide warmth and depth, while the digital elements add precision and clarity. The balance between these two aspects creates a rich sonic palette that is both nostalgic and forward-thinking. The attention to detail in the mixing and mastering ensures that each track is immersive, with each element occupying its own space in the stereo field.

Themes and Concept

Dawnload3r is more than just a collection of tracks; it’s a conceptual journey through a digital landscape. The EP’s title itself is a play on words, combining “dawn” and “download,” suggesting the birth of a new era in the digital age. The tracks explore themes of time, memory, and the intersection of humanity and technology. There’s a sense of reverence for the past, coupled with an optimistic outlook toward the future. The music serves as a bridge between these two worlds, capturing the spirit of the ’80s while looking forward to what lies ahead.

Conclusion

In Dawnload3r, CYADS has crafted an EP that is both a love letter to the past and a vision of the future. The duo’s ability to blend retro influences with modern production techniques results in a sound that is both familiar and innovative. Each track offers a unique perspective on the themes of time and technology, creating a cohesive narrative that unfolds over the course of the EP. For fans of synthwave, cyberpunk, and electronic music in general, Dawnload3r is a compelling listen that showcases the potential of the genre to evolve while honoring its roots.

You can listen to the entire album here on Spotify: