Rhys Tranter – Isolation Flow (2023)
Inspired by humanity in its totality, singer-songwriter Rhys Tranter is unafraid to look at the bright, optimistic side and gritty, gruesome side of life. Touching on themes of mortality, empathy and mental health, Tranter’s songs connect with individuals on an intimate, profound level. This is my introduction to Tranter, but he is already turning heads internationally with coverage from Artisti Online, Mystic Songs, Nova Music, and Edgar Allan Poets to name but a few. The latest addition to his repertoire is the EP Isolation Flow.
As I mentioned, Rhys Tranter touches on the more profound side of life in his music without fear or abandon. Partnering with producer Mat Leppanen at The Animal Farm Music, the six-track Isolation Flow takes listeners back to the 80s with its nostalgic flair. While there is a prominent lush flow to the synth-pop tone, Tranter inserts touches of alternative rock, post-punk and indie-rock. Leanings toward The Cure in heavier tracks like ‘Introspection’, some tinges of Depeche Mode in songs like ‘Mythical’ and ‘Steady On’, and the gruffness of U2 in ‘Isolation Flow’ showcase Tranter’s versatility as an artist. While Isolation Flow is filled with nostalgia, Tranter proves he is not a one-trick pony but simultaneously creates a sound that is purely Rhys Tranter.
Just as the melodies hold their own in a psychedelic splash of kaleidoscopic euphoria, it is the themes that bring thought-provoking depth to his music. Influenced by the pandemic and mental health topics, Isolation Flow is filled to the brim with compelling poetic content. The thing is, while the majority of Tranter’s music, even his previous work, is significantly poignant, he still tries to inject playfulness and fun into the gritty soundscape. He describes the title track of Isolation Flow as “having stronger pop sensibilities and a fun synth hook…”
While I often find it difficult to choose a favourite track in EPs with many sounding similar from the first to the last track, Tranter’s diversity in each song of Isolation Flow left me open to options. If I were forced to choose a favourite, I would probably opt for ‘Faith Healing’ with its heart-stopping brashness and bold grittiness.
For more from Rhys Tranter, check out his Facebook, Instagram and Spotify.
This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator
