Spirits of Saturn – Transfigured (2024)
Formed in 2022, Spirits of Saturn may be considered a minnow in a pool of sharks; however, despite few releases, the UK-based foursome is standing tall as a refreshing light in a sometimes-stagnating pop music scene. Breathing life into the nostalgic sound of 80s synth-pop, a reminiscence of artists like Depeche Mode emerge. Yet, while vintage, a contemporary edge exists in the melodies bringing old-school style to modern audiences. The latest addition to their discography is ‘Transfigured’.
The first release of 2024, and their third release as a group, ‘Transfigured’ retains a sense of nostalgia drawing on 80s and 90s synth-pop. As I mentioned, a reminiscence of Depeche Mode exists but transcends time and generations in Spirit of Saturn’s melodies. Unlike ‘100mph’ and ‘Feelings Agency’, Spirits of Saturn inserts a darker, heavier post-punk aspect to the single. Softer and slower than previous material, the single turns down the toe-tapping high leading to a gentle lull of music; however, while ‘Transfigured’ is soothing, a weighty depth covers the melody with mellifluous melancholy.
Recorded at Manchester’s Loop Studios with Superorganism’s Tucan (mixing and mastering), ‘Transfigured’ finds the line between sophisticated maturity and raw originality in its production. The flush of Early Sans’ synths dominate the single, but Scott Docherty’s keys weave a light thread about them. Docherty’s bass boldness to the foundation and Elian Lion brings a bold groove with his drums. Slips of strings pierce ‘Transfigured’ bringing an edginess to the synth-pop tune contributing to the harmonic symphony.
The instrumentation is intriguing, yet Edmund Blackadder’s rich vocals seem to bind everything with a golden ribbon. Moreover, his execution oozes vulnerability and fragility while moving our hearts with a sense of hopefulness – all perfectly encapsulating the theme of ‘Transfigured’. Spirits of Saturn explain:
“…the song explores the mental processes following the dissolution of relationships. How one gains perspective through the passing of time and construction of narratives whereby your emotions are transfigured…”
In addition to their single, Spirits of Saturn released an official music video for ‘Transfigured’. You can view the video below or via their YouTube channel. Please note that this video uses lighting effects that can trigger seizures in people with photosensitive epilepsy. Viewer discretion is advised.
VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED
For more from Spirits of Saturn, check out their Facebook, Instagram and Spotify.
This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator
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