My Early Phases

Exploring “My Early Phases” by Kursivo: A Musical Journey of Discovery

Released in 2023, Kursivo’s My Early Phases is a vibrant sonic journey that comprises seven tracks, each representing different musical influences akin to the varying phases of the moon. Composing is about imagining series of notes and chords, putting them together in a scale with a suitable tempo, adding, subtracting, trying out different instrument timbres for different parts until everything sounds good.

The album opens with “Caprice No. 5,” a classical crossover piece meticulously crafted for speed. Here, the creative focus lies heavily in the spatial soundscape and arrangement, where every note is positioned to maximize its impact. The track launches the listener into a world where classical roots intertwine with modern sensibilities, setting an exhilarating tone for what is to come.

Following the energetic opener, “Chillax” offers a contrasting experience. In this track, the bass and xylophone interlace to create an atmosphere of relaxation, a deliberate move to soothe the listener while maintaining a level of tension, an element that Kursivo consistently weaves throughout his work. The calculated arrangement reveals the desire to balance softness with a hint of edginess, marking a shift in the album’s emotional palette.

Then comes “Mixolydian Exercises,” which serves as an exploration of the Mixolydian scale. This piece tells a poignant story through its bass and drum arrangement, blending a sense of melancholy with resilience. The added trumpet, like a beacon of hope, pierces through and feels like sorrow, reminding us that even in our losses, there’s a bittersweet victory awaiting. The narrative showcases the ability of music to reflect human experiences.

Then we reach “Lounge Bar,” an evocative piece where Kursivo’s fantasies unfold. Imagine a space where the righteous gather, feeling perky, loving, and dreamy. This track is a nod to a bygone era, filled with nostalgia and glamour, transporting you to a place where innovation was once synonymous with thrilling creativity.

The narrative then plunges into a fantasy “Waiting Room”, hopefully less boring than the real ones. Here, the intensity rises as a wah effect generates a vortex, sucking in frustration and anticipation. The sense of urgency echoes the existential weight that often accompanies the act of waiting, and is being made into a standout moment.

In “Set the Fire on the Third Bar,” listeners will recognize echoes of Snow Patrol’s original. Kursivo imbues this interpretation with an unique flair of that warmth, drawing them into a different sense of urgency. Against the backdrop of an engaging Middle Eastern vibe, the transition into chaos adds a fervent energy, eventually pulling you into a heavy metal-inspired beat that’s hard to resist.

Finally, we wrap up with “So What,” a tribute to the legendary Miles Davis. Here, the guitar ignites with an enraged energy, building upon the themes of tension and resolution. The raw emotion captured was meant to serve as a compelling conclusion. What was to gain out of it all?