There’s no denying that 2014 was a year to remember for producer and songwriter Michael Hazani. Since starting the project Qualia, his debut effort, “This Is The Color Of My Dreams” gained acclaim from critics which led to tours across the East Coast. The Seattle-based indie rocker finished the year perfectly by scooping the John Lennon Innovators In Music Competition.
Will 2015 bring the same buzz? Well the answer lies with his latest EP “Triptych”. Unlike his debut effort, boasting explosive 3d futuristic soundscapes, Hazani takes a traditional and arguably an organic approach with this three-track EP. An uplifting presence of new wave meets pixelated tones (think of a 80s video game) in opening track, “Presque Vu”. I was half expecting the piercing pac-man beeps to spill over into the remaining tracks (potentially testing my patience) but thankfully it doesn’t.
Second effort “Guillotine” is a complete contrast to the intro track; it’s a real laid back and echoic composition with airy electronic overtones which contribute to a stunning take on alternative rock.
“Tell Me A Story” is probably the best piece of the EP. Continuing with the stunning atmospheric soundscape, featured in the previous offering, this four-and-a-half minute production has that real kick of 80s rock pop with the chorus in particular bearing strong influences of The Police in the thick of their heyday.
This promising newcomer plans to tour the remainder of 2015 straight through into 2016 and his wish may be granted. With trance-like compositions, “Triptych” EP has every chance to hit the mainstream rock charts and grab a whole new bunch of fans along the way.
