Iuliano – On the Radio (2021)
Iuliano is pulling us into an intimate, yet cryptic, single that is both an exploration and critique of the world. ‘On the Radio’ wraps organic instrumentation in electronic reverbs to consider how the world can shape and tame the artist within all of us. This pressure to conform is beautifully crafted into the soundscape as we follow the disillusionment of an artist faced with the obstacles the outside world throws at us.
The first single off the concept EP De-Algorithm, it perfectly sets the tone and theme for what is to come. A progressive songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, Iuliano offers commentary on the world through his music, and delves into the plight of the humans trying to navigate a digital world packed with algorithms. If you are in the mood for a song that combines organic and electronic, while reflecting on the world at large, this is the one for you.
‘On the Radio’ uses an eclectic opening line to get your attention. There is a strumming tone that is accompanied by a scratchy beat. As the single progresses, this swirls into a combination of organic and electronic tones. The organic instrumentation is nestled in the heart of the melody, while the outside is a coating of lighter electronic notes. While the movement edges toward experimental, there is something ridiculously melodic about the movement. You can easily get into it as the music comes at you from all directions and keeps you on your toes. You never quite know what is going to happen, but you can be sure that you are going to enjoy it.
While the eclectic melody fills the soundscape, the vocals are both dreamy and intimate. They beckon you toward them with a mysterious air, before they growl and fly on the wings of glittering lights. The lyrics are somewhat cryptic as they bring the swirling thoughts of disillusionment and frustration with the world to the single. There is something about the performance that makes it both accessible and elusive, like you just touch it with the tips of your fingers, before it flutters out of reach. The undulating tones of the music and the cryptic intimacy of the vocals strangely come together for a really engaging track.
Iuliano combines cryptic lyrics with intimate vocals floating over an eclectic soundscape to swirl feelings of disillusionment and frustration into ‘On the Radio’. The music has organic instrumentation at its heart, but the outer shell is paced with electronic tones. The vocals are intimate, airy and utterly addictive as they fill your ears with cryptic messages and complex emotion.
Find out more about Iuliano on his website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Spotify.
