Electro pop and dance united by conceptual introspection that counters the digital production with a certain humanity and depth. JD Rotate’s latest album digs into the moments, experiences and relationships that shape a life and who we are, and does so by way of an eclectic and pristine stylistic approach.
From the opening melodies, riffs and familiar programmed vocal of all these voices, the album sets off on a reflective, emotional pathway, but soon raises the pulse distinctly as the heavier bass and beat combination of euphoric floor-filler better in motion glides into view.
This second track is an instant energiser, and the subject matter is cleverly blended from literal dance aspects to the deeper contemplation of the self and the process of learning who you want to be.
The high-vibrancy continues through the sharp bars and alternative voicing of No Map, perhaps one of the album’s most unique and distinct tracks yet, still with that powerful bass and a kind of soulful indie edge to help maintain the humanity and heart of the songwriting. This is a personal favourite, snappy and sharp but also meaningful, catchy, evocative, and great for both introspection and motivation; depending on what you need from it.
Other highlights from All These Voices include the beatbox-esque charm and neo-classical synths of nobody cares. As a title, this one brings about a familiar recent trend, and at the same time, the idea is that of ambition, the fear of judgement that keeps so many of us from chasing our dreams, and the resulting energy is cool, calming, and inspiring. It’s true, that when it comes to your aspirations and attempts – nobody cares; just get it done.
face the end and the conductor feature some cool and interesting production choices, the latter presenting an anthemic peak, with both utilising that familiar voice from the opener. Then same town adopts a slight change of pace, something sultry and soul-funk in its whispered quietness and intricate bassline and vocal set-up.
With 18 tracks in full, this is an extensive project, to say the least. JD Rotate reflects that many of these songs came from topics and memories he’d been carrying around for years – thoughts of risk, gratitude, love, parenthood, time, and ‘trying to figure out which voices in your head are actually your own.’
On the surface, All These Voices is an eclectic modern playlist of songs, noting hints of influence amidst lashings of variety from the likes of dancehall, EDM, pop and elsewhere. same wave is unexpectedly addictive for its tropical bounce and darker, seductive aura, while say it loud is every bit the opposite for its passionate pop-rock injection of relevant volume and empowerment.
I see it now is a favourite, but endless july afterwards is beautifully engaging for its sense of character and imagery. Stoic in the Storm also has something deeply immersive about it, an afterparty electronic arena, with raspy spoken vocals and an ambient, hypnotic trip hop groove with subtle sweeping synths in the outer layers; another stand-out.
Then to finish, the brightness of the opener returns, Finds Us Home heading back to optimism, positivity, possibility. The song is kind of classic pop and dance, gentle but evocative, and at this precise moment in the album, it’s a strong reminder of the value of finding your true self and learning from the experiences of the past.
