Empire Falling, the debut album from synth pop sensation Magnetic Skies follows on their series of successful EPs and singles, from 2019’s EP Dream and Memories to 2023’s single “Suffocate”.
Formed in 2019 by lead vocalist and keyboardist Simon Kent and Jo Womar, the duo wanted to embark on a creative journey that was rooted in their shared love for 80s synth-driven post-punk. The result is a sound characterised by vintage analog synths and pulsating bass, which has steadily evolved into an intoxicating blend of electronica with a touch of darkwave.
Joining the duo are guitarist Carlos Aguilar and drummer Lenin Alegria and with the band in place, the quartet set out to create their debut album with production and mixing primarily handled in-house by Simon and additional mixing by Rob Aubrey.
On the album, Simon says,
The album is reflective, poetic, and it takes you on a journey lyrically, and in mood from sad nostalgia through to happiness and euphoria. I hope the listener can relate to the sounds and lyrics, find some connection on a personal level – I’d like to move them in an emotional way. It’s nice to close the opening chapter on the band and capture the songs that evolved as the band came together from a duo to a 4-piece, and while we were learning how to work together.
Empire Falling is a sonic synth journey through a landscape of emotions, seamlessly guiding one through a spectrum of feelings, from poignant nostalgia to exuberant happiness and euphoria. Tracks like “Into Paradise” introduce us to the layers of synths, while “Fading Lights”offers pounding beats and infectious lyrics, and the aforementioned single, “Suffocate” delves into a relationship that was meant to be forever.
On “Suffocate”, Simon adds,
This one’s about a long-standing friendship that has broken down over a long period of time. This looks back from childhood to adulthood. It was written when Jo and I formed the band, and lyrically it represents the period of time in which all the other things referenced in the album happened.
With Empire Falling, Magnetic Skies has crafted an electrifying synth pop album that is nostalgic of the 80’s, new wave, and goth pop. Whether it be an exploration of falling in love “You Shine On” or nostalgia “Give Me Back that Moment”, Falling Empire is both a chill listening experience as it is a dance floor ready experience. The juxtaposition of the two creates a listening experience no matter the mood.
MUST LISTEN TRACKS: “Suffocate”, “Fading Lights”, “You Shine On”, “Darker Night”
FAVOURITE TRACKS: “Fading Lights”, “Darker Night”
