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| Photo: Shawn Brackbill |
John Maus - Screen Memories (Ribbon Music)
Released: October 27th, 2017
Lo-fi synth mastermind John Maus is back with his fourth studio album, Screen Memories. This is a follow up to his 2011 record, We Must Become the Pitiless Censors of Ourselves.
Known for his strange and almost deranged attempts at 1980s inspired synth-pop, Maus expands soundscapes and sonic environments within in his own world.
He uses a mixture of synth patches and bass lines that combine with dirty drum machines for some unique synth-pop. Reminiscent of groups like Black Marble, Ariel Pink and Joy Division, Screen Memories further proves Maus' expertise in this genre.
Right out of the gate, Maus delivers three tracks that not only contain that lo-fi synth feel, but also have a solid groove and melody.
The glistening synth work on "The Combine" work with the muddy bass-line for a solid single. The fuzzy and consistent drum pattern drives along side his dark vocal performance. The synth work is haunting in some parts, expanding the tune.
"Teenage Witch" is another one where we hear these sharp and shining synths cutting through the instrumentation. His vocals don't play a huge role here, or on any song throughout the record, but the synth-work is again something to note.
On "Touchdown", Maus develops an infectious groove through the punchy drums and synth-bass. He includes an ascending and descending synth pattern that presents itself throughout. The song kicks into another gear around the halfway mark but then subsides to its original state, continuously bouncing with a solid bass and drum combo.
There are multiple highlights throughout Screen Memories.
"Decide Decide" is such a solid track due to the fact that Maus develops his vocals here more than any song on the record. It fits seamlessly along side the synthesizers and percussion. The melody and progressions on this track are addicting and smooth. Hands down one of the catchiest songs and moments from the album.
The tracks "Find Out" and "Pets" are energetic and driving.
The synth bass-line takes charge on "Pets" while Maus sings depressing lyrics about how the pets are gonna die... Very strange, but the instrumentation is great.
A dirty and rough guitar section makes it was to "Find Out". Again, the instrumentation is full and rockin'. The guitar leads the melody and fills the song with a solid jam/solo section. The song took him away from the strictly synth driven tunes to add something a little different to the record.
"Walls of Silence" and "The People Are Missing" contain solid instrumentation but the vocals repeat the same phrase over and over again, never developing. These tracks were okay to listen to, but after a few listens they become stale. The instrumentation can only carry the song so far, especially with no distinct lyrical content. In general, there weren't too many misses on Screen Memories.
Overall, this was a solid record from John Maus. He hasn't released anything since his last album from 2011 and Screen Memories somewhat justified the wait. All the the way through, this album contains gorgeous synth work along side lo-fi and goth percussion and arpeggiators. His sound throughout is consistent and direct, never changing or altering too much. The highlights throughout were catchy and smooth, demonstrating how John Maus is an expert within this field.
If you're interested in that lo-fi synth sound, check this record out. John Maus wears his 1980s inspirations right on his sleeve, but alters them to fit contemporary content. Screen Memories is a prime example of why lo-fi experimental synth-pop/goth has a chance and the ability to make a return to mainstream alternative music. Listen below...
Listen: John Maus - The Combine
Genre: Synth-Pop/Experimental-Synth/Lo-Fi-Pop/Goth-Pop/Soft-Punk/Alt-Pop
Rating: 7/10
Fav Songs: The Combine, Teenage Witch, Touchdown, Decide Decide, Find Out, Pets, Edge of Forever
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