A dynamic showcase of both lush fantasy-like comfort and erupting orchestral passion, “Serenity?” is an epic new track from Dutch artist Maarten Rischen. Released alongside a video featuring dancer Alina Spittan, which is essential to capture the full experience, “Serenity?” compels in its range of soundscapes and melodic evolution.
““Serenity?” starts out as a meandering wistful ambient piano piece, but takes a dramatic turn for pretty much every human emotion there is – or at least the ones I’m personally capable of,” Rischen explains. “But at least equally important to the music is the accompanying video, as the music is half written and produced in the studio, half written/composed and played during the shoot of the video.”
Ocean waves and gentle piano lead a caressing introduction. Gentle acoustic strums linger as well. A more hectic trickling past the three-minute mark signals a subtle shift in mood, culminating in pounding percussion and weeping strings; the rise and melodic payoff is gorgeously executed. A charismatic rock-guitar touch adds a danceable flair. The second half shifts back into a serene, ocean-set escape — with the track’s riveting soundscapes entrancing throughout.
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This and other tracks featured this month can be streamed on the updating Obscure Sound’s ‘Best of August 2023’ Spotify playlist.
