Hello and welcome to another installment in our going series “Eden Tries To Convince You That Not All Nu-Prog Is Bad”. It’s a much-needed series, seeing as the genre seems hellbent on elevating the most boring and cliche artists from its amidst to the forefront of what nu-prog means today. And that’s a real shame because there’s just so much good music hiding beneath the surface. Case in point, Bodhi, Justin Seymour’s (The Room Colored Charlatan) project. We’ve covered it before on the blog, praising it’s inventive and interesting approach to composition, ambiance, electronics and, of course, Seymour’s incredible talent on the guitar. Now, we’re happy to report that Bodhi is back and gearing up for a new release titled Simple Pleasures!
“Midnight Oil” is the first track to come from this release, paving the way with a great playthrough video and one of the strongest tracks from Bodhi so far. Before we sink in, however, I’d like to once again just how much I adore the artwork that comes with Bodhi’s releases. The art embraces the aesthetics of the genre while presenting it in a truly professional and unique way, instead of just slapping on some bright colors and calling it a day. This is also what we find when we approach the music itself. All the trappings of nu-prog are here: the guitar tone is saccharine and further sweetened by the note choices. The leads are prominent and scintillating, showcasing Seymour’s talent and composition. But everything just works so well, unlike so many others in the genre.
As I’ve said before, it’s all about structure. This track actually has it, with riffs, bass, drums and guitar all working together to create something more than just a bunch of guitar parts collapsing in on each other as the track spirals up its own naval. Instead, refrains, reprisals and a good progression turn this into something that’s listenable and engaging; listen as the quiet part fades into the outro with a cool little transition composed of cheesy drums and dreamy synths. The outro itself is more than just another solo. Rather, it revisits the main theme of the track and infuses it with so much groove that it sends you on your way with a smile on your face.
End of the day, I am incredibly excited for this release and so should you be; it’s set to be exactly what the summer needs, music to roll down your windows to. If you’re not convinced, Seymour is also preparing to fuel other ambitions to this project; proceeds from it will go towards a fund to help future artists, or just future adults, with college funds. So, what are you waiting for? Head on over to the Bandcamp link above and order this bad boy; you won’t be disappointed!