Maribou State’s third album, ”Hallucinating Love,” arrives a decade after their debut, ”Portraits,” and five years following their sophomore effort, ”Kingdoms of Colour.” This extended interval was marked by a significant personal challenge for one half of the duo, Chris Davids, who underwent brain surgery to address a rare congenital defect known as Chiari malformation. This health crisis, which manifested as debilitating headaches, understandably postponed the album’s release and subsequent touring plans. The album’s creation, therefore, unfolded against a backdrop of personal struggle and recovery, a context that undeniably shapes its emotional resonance. The music becomes a testament to resilience and the therapeutic power of artistic expression, reflecting Davids’ journey through pain and healing.
”Hallucinating Love” finds Maribou State further refining their signature sound, a blend of introspective electronica, ethereal textures, and subtle rhythmic grooves. They occupy a space within the contemporary electronic music landscape that echoes the spirit of the chill-out movement of the 1990s, reminiscent of compilations like ”Café del Mar.” The duo, completed by Liam Ivory, have always leaned towards creating music that evokes a sense of calm and contemplation, a focus that resonates even more profoundly given Davids’ health struggles. The album’s sonic palette prioritizes gentle soundscapes, delicate melodies, and a soothing rhythmic pulse, elements that seem almost tailor-made to offer solace and respite from physical discomfort. The music’s inherent tranquility becomes an act of self-care, a sonic balm against the backdrop of Davids’ recovery.
The album’s production emphasizes a meticulous attention to detail, creating a layered and immersive sonic experience. Swirling strings, gentle guitar melodies, and subtle electronic textures intertwine to create a hypnotic and dreamlike atmosphere. The duo’s command of dynamics is evident throughout, with moments of quiet introspection building towards subtly euphoric crescendos. This careful crafting of sonic textures reinforces the album’s overall theme of healing and restoration, inviting the listener into a space of calm and reflection. The music’s ethereal quality fosters a sense of escape, offering a respite from the external world and an opportunity for introspection.
Holly Walker, a frequent collaborator, returns to lend her distinctive vocals to several tracks, adding another layer of emotional depth to the album. Her ethereal soprano voice seamlessly blends with the music’s delicate instrumentation, creating a captivating and otherworldly atmosphere. Walker’s contributions are particularly striking on the track ”Peace Talk,” which gradually builds towards a powerful crescendo of swirling strings and lingering guitar notes. Her voice becomes a focal point, conveying a sense of serenity and resilience that resonates deeply within the album’s overall thematic framework.
While ”Hallucinating Love” largely adheres to Maribou State’s established sound of introspective electronica, it also incorporates elements of folk, disco, and soul, adding subtle nuances to their signature style. These influences manifest in the gentle acoustic strums, the occasional four-on-the-floor rhythmic pulse, and the soulful undertones that permeate certain tracks. The duo demonstrate a masterful ability to blend these diverse genres seamlessly, creating a cohesive and captivating listening experience. This subtle experimentation expands their sonic palette while remaining true to their core aesthetic, demonstrating a continued artistic evolution.
The album is not without its more energetic moments. ”Dance on the World,” for example, stands out with its driving beat, soaring vocals, and anthemic chorus. This track showcases Maribou State’s ability to craft music that is both introspective and outwardly expressive, demonstrating a dynamic range that transcends the boundaries of their established chill-out sound. The inclusion of such tracks adds a welcome contrast to the album’s predominantly mellow atmosphere, providing moments of uplifting energy and driving momentum. This juxtaposition of contrasting moods enhances the overall listening experience, preventing the album from becoming overly monotonous or predictable.
”Hallucinating Love” represents a significant milestone in Maribou State’s artistic journey. It’s an album that transcends mere musical expression, becoming a testament to the power of resilience, the therapeutic potential of art, and the enduring strength of the human spirit. It’s an album born from personal struggle, yet it ultimately offers a message of hope and healing, inviting listeners to find solace and strength within its carefully crafted soundscapes. The album’s gentle rhythms, ethereal textures, and soaring vocals combine to create a truly immersive and transformative listening experience, making it a compelling and deeply moving work of art.
