RedazioneTANKATAKA’s debut album, Anesthesia, is a hauntingly beautiful blend of raw emotion, innovative sound design, and poignant storytelling. With influences ranging from Grimes to Massive Attack, the record captures the chaos of war and personal struggle while offering a sense of hope and resilience. Written during a time of conflict in Ukraine, Anesthesia is as much a sonic refuge as it is an unflinching mirror to human vulnerability.
From the first track, “Mamo,” it’s clear that rhythm plays a central role in this album. The breakbeat undercurrent pulses like a heartbeat, driving the listener forward while layers of electronic pop and synthwave textures create a dreamlike atmosphere. TANKATAKA’s meticulous attention to basslines is evident throughout—whether throbbing with intensity on tracks like “Strata” or providing a subtle, melancholic foundation in “Vitalnya.” The bass feels like the spine of Anesthesia, holding everything together amidst its swirling emotional complexity.
The album’s title track, “Anesthesia,” encapsulates its overarching theme of finding solace in music. Here, icy synths blend seamlessly with delicate, almost whispered vocals, evoking a sense of dissociation while inviting introspection. The rhythm transitions fluidly from subdued to explosive, mirroring the emotional highs and lows that define the record.
TANKATAKA’s ability to layer soundscapes is masterful. Tracks like “Dzerkalo” highlight her use of synth arpeggios to create a hypnotic effect, pulling listeners into an introspective journey. The track’s production mirrors its lyrical theme: a self-reflective dive into fears and self-doubt. Elsewhere, “Potvory” introduces an industrial edge, with jagged beats and distorted synths that feel like a cathartic release of pent-up frustration.
One of the standout moments of the album is “Strata.” As the lead single, it serves as both a rallying cry and an intimate confession. Its rhythm is relentless, blending militant breakbeats with soaring synth melodies that demand attention. TANKATAKA’s vocals are fierce yet vulnerable, underscoring the duality of strength and fragility that runs through the record. The track’s lyrical message of resistance and solidarity resonates deeply, especially in the context of the ongoing challenges faced by Ukraine and women worldwide.
Despite the heavy subject matter, Anesthesia finds moments of light. “Unison,” for instance, is a shimmering ode to connection and harmony, its uplifting synths and flowing rhythm providing a much-needed breath of optimism. The album’s closer, “Tetche Voda,” ends on a meditative note, with watery sound effects and a sparse, ambient arrangement that feels like a return to calm after a storm.
The production, helmed by TANKATAKA and Daniel Ocaro, deserves particular praise. Each track feels like a meticulously crafted tapestry, with no detail overlooked. The raw honesty of the vocals—recorded during moments of vulnerability—adds an intimate dimension that’s rare in electronic music.
In Anesthesia, TANKATAKA has created more than just an album; it’s a sonic diary, a therapeutic outlet, and a testament to resilience. It’s unfiltered and deeply personal, yet its themes are universal. The record not only establishes TANKATAKA as a bold and innovative artist but also as a voice for those navigating their own struggles.
This is an album that invites repeated listening—not just for its rich production and compelling rhythms but for its emotional depth. Anesthesia is a triumph, and we are honored to showcase it on our webzine.
