Jacqueline Cordes – “Illusions of Amethyst”

Conjuring a cinematic, fantasy-like allure in its flourishing neoclassical intrigue, “Illusions of Amethyst” is an immersive new track from Jacqueline Cordes. Coming via the Los Angeles-based artist’s new album Frozen Star, out on August 8th, “Illusions of Amethyst” ventures with minor-key beauty and embraces Cordes’ appreciation for the color purple; her synesthesia turns music into color, and this track emits that particular shade — just like personal inspirations Stephen Flaherty’s “Once Upon a December” and Franz Schubert’s “Gretchen am Spinnrade.”

Frozen Star follows up last year’s debut album Singularity; both converge for a tour of the “Chromaverse.” The release of “Illusions of Amethyst” comes alongside an accompanying music video called “The Puppetmaker,” depicting the titular Puppetmaker as continuing to craft his art in a desolate world. Its striking visuals meld with the vibrant instrumentation for a wholly memorable output.

Elegant piano exudes a dreamy charm initially, bolstered gradually by twinkling effervescence and sweeping strings amidst wordless choir effects; the overall sound across this consuming introduction reminds fondly of Danny Elfman’s scores. Alternations between trickling lushness and more orchestral grandiosity makes for a continuing sense of momentum within, fit for both the big screen and more personal listening experiences. “Illusions of Amethyst” has us thoroughly anticipating the upcoming release of Frozen Star.

The track is also featured in the genre-based, best-of Spotify compilation Rainy Days and Late Night Drives.

We discovered this release via MusoSoup.

Mike Mineo

I'm the founder/editor of Obscure Sound, which was formed in 2006. Previously, I wrote for PopMatters and Stylus Magazine.

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