Tech Noir Jazz Fusion
Album Review: “Tech Noir v.1” by Colin James Gordon and Thomas Molina
Written By: Dan Eachus
In a neon-lit, rain-drenched metropolis where shadows dance with the echoes of forgotten dreams, “Tech Noir v.1” emerges as a haunting sonic narrative, crafted by the collaborative genius of Colin James Gordon and Thomas Ignacio Molina. This dystopian jazz masterpiece invites listeners into a realm where dissonance meets harmony, where the echoes of love and loss reverberate through the alleys of a city lost in its own apathy.
As the album unfolds, each track serves as a chapter in the story of a classic noir detective, navigating the labyrinthine streets of a soulless society. From the opening notes of “its always,” listeners are transported into the heart of this bleak urban landscape, where the cold embrace of solitude hangs heavy in the air. Colin James Gordon’s mastery of lo-fi synths and beats sets the stage, while Thomas Ignacio Molina’s trumpet weaves a melancholic melody that echoes through the deserted streets.
“En route” builds upon this foundation, propelling the listener forward on a journey of intrigue and mystery. The pulsating rhythm evokes the sense of urgency as our protagonist embarks on a quest for truth amidst the chaos of the city. Each track seamlessly transitions into the next, painting a vivid tableau of the protagonist’s inner turmoil and external struggles.
In “Pursuit of an assailant,” the tension reaches its peak as the detective closes in on his elusive target. Molina’s trumpet soars, capturing the adrenaline-fueled chase through dimly lit alleyways and smoky jazz clubs. Yet, amidst the chaos, a glimmer of humanity emerges in “Love Theme,” a poignant reminder of the fragile connections that bind us together in a world devoid of empathy.
“Watching TikTok and lusting after unattainable women” delves into the darker side of contemporary society, where technology and social media serve as distractions from the emptiness within. Gordon’s hypnotic beats provide a stark contrast to Molina’s mournful trumpet, reflecting the dissonance between the virtual facade and the harsh reality of existence.
“Lite Brite” offers a moment of respite, with its ethereal melodies and shimmering synths casting a soft glow amidst the shadows. Yet, the illusion of serenity is shattered in “Its True,” where the harsh truth of the protagonist’s reality is laid bare.
“Interview with a killer” unfolds like a noir-inspired interrogation, with Molina’s trumpet assuming the role of both prosecutor and defendant. The haunting melody lingers, leaving the listener questioning the nature of justice and morality in a world devoid of redemption.
“Revealed in a dream” offers a fleeting glimpse into the protagonist’s subconscious, where truth and illusion intertwine in a delicate dance. Molina’s trumpet weaves a dreamscape of haunting beauty, drawing the listener deeper into the labyrinth of the mind.
“…And the killer walks by” serves as a chilling reminder of the cyclical nature of violence and despair. Gordon’s atmospheric synths and Molina’s mournful trumpet merge into a haunting dirge, echoing through the empty streets long after the final notes fade away.
But it is “A Love Never Really Had Is Lost” that stands out as the crowning jewel of the album, a bittersweet symphony of longing and regret. Molina’s trumpet takes center stage, its mournful wail capturing the essence of unrequited love and shattered dreams. Gordon’s lo-fi beats provide a steady pulse, underscoring the ache of the protagonist’s broken heart.
As the album draws to a close with “TikTok Reprise,” the echoes of the city fade into the distance, leaving behind a sense of longing and nostalgia. “Tech Noir v.1” is more than just an album; it is a journey into the heart of darkness, a meditation on the human condition in an age of disconnect and disillusionment. Colin James Gordon and Thomas Ignacio Molina have crafted a masterpiece that transcends genre, inviting listeners to lose themselves in the haunting beauty of their dystopian jazz odyssey.
