Radio Vision – First Contact (2023)
Creativity cannot be stifled, and Radio Vision proves this in abundance. Known for his role in the psychedelic-rock group The Shook (who we happened to have reviewed several times), Benjamin Stephenson embraces a solo project in Radio Vision. Taking us along for the ride, Stephenson sets off on a journey to self-discovery with a cinematic psychedelic-infused alternative rock sound. Come with us as we step into the dreamy shimmer of sound that is Radio Vision.
Aptly titled ‘First Contact’, this single is Stephenson’s introduction to audiences as Radio Vision. A dream-like debut track, listeners will find themselves lost in an ethereal sonic haze. Yet, just as there is a mystic quality to ‘First Contact’, a nostalgic flair of bolder rock lies beneath the melody. Inspired by the likes of David Bowie and Jimi Hendrix, the song finds that line between obscure psychedelia and confident rock.
What I find particularly interesting about ‘First Contact’ is not how it finds the balance of obscure and distinct but the line between creepy and chilled-out. Navigating a sonic haze, there is a wistful allure to the track; however, the soundscape also brings a sense of uncertain, haunting melancholy. Stephenson explains that this song is “about our modern world and the relationship we have with it, in various contexts. As well as how an outside observer might judge us for how we treat this planet and each other.”
Recorded and produced with Dakotah Haken of New Level Productions, ‘First Contact’ is introspective and sensitive, but the discomforting creepiness (which might be the judgement of outside observers) makes it darker than initially seen.
For more from Radio Vision, check out his Instagram and Spotify.
This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator
