RedazioneMono XL, the London-based project led by Spanish-born Mike de Lis, makes an impressive debut with Haze Collector, a highly anticipated album that establishes the artist’s experimental edge in the electronic music scene. Blending electronic rhythms, rock influences, and atmospheric soundscapes, this collection is a finely crafted journey through de Lis’ diverse musical inspirations. Produced by de Lis and Piti Varela, the album was recorded in de Lis’ self-made studio, a personal sanctuary that clearly nurtured the raw emotion and innovative spirit driving this release.
At its core, Haze Collector is a genre-defying record that thrives on atmospheric soundscapes and introspective lyrics. The opening track, “I Fall,” sets the stage with its moody, pulsing synths that wrap around a steady drumbeat, immediately immersing the listener in the album’s brooding tone. It’s a bold entrance that signals de Lis’ intention to explore the boundary between electronic music and rock, drawing on influences from legends like David Bowie and Radiohead. The track’s rhythm is subtle but effective, with a bassline that anchors the song while allowing the high-pitched synths to shimmer above, creating an almost dreamlike quality.
The rhythmic experimentation throughout the album is one of its most striking features. On “Ingenuos,” Mono XL introduces an intricate beat that feels almost mechanical, driven by a syncopated percussion pattern that reflects de Lis’ ability to fuse electronica with rock sensibilities. The bassline here is deep, almost industrial in its presence, while the shimmering synths offer a contrast of warmth. It’s a testament to the artist’s ability to craft rich, multifaceted layers within his compositions, creating an immersive soundscape that feels both organic and synthetic.
In tracks like “Seconds to Destroy,” the bass takes on a more prominent role, with a pulsating, almost hypnotic groove that shifts the focus from the atmospheric to the physical. The beat becomes a powerful force that drives the track forward, giving it a sense of urgency and tension. Meanwhile, the synth work remains lush, with sweeping chords that add an element of grandeur to the otherwise gritty rhythm.
The album’s rhythm section is never static; rather, it’s fluid and dynamic, with beats that ebb and flow in a way that enhances the album’s sense of emotional progression. “Seven Days” features a laid-back, downtempo beat that contrasts sharply with the more frenetic tracks on the album, creating a reflective moment in the tracklist. The bassline here is lighter, almost jazzy, while the synths glide smoothly, giving the track a sense of tranquility amidst the chaos of the other songs.
Lyrically, Haze Collector delves into themes of introspection, emotional confusion, and a sense of yearning, which de Lis expresses through a combination of ethereal synths and melancholic vocal lines. The album’s overall atmosphere is rich with tension and release, each track carefully crafted to evoke a different emotional response. The layering of textures—whether through ambient soundscapes, sharp synth stabs, or flowing instrumental passages—creates an immersive experience that pulls the listener into de Lis’ world.
In terms of production, Haze Collector showcases a deep understanding of space and texture. Every element feels deliberate, with each layer contributing to the overall sense of atmosphere without overwhelming the listener. The balance between rock, electronic, and orchestral elements is handled with care, making the album feel cohesive despite its genre-blending nature.
Mono XL’s debut is a stunning example of experimental electronic music at its finest. Haze Collector is not just an album, but an emotional and sonic journey that demonstrates de Lis’ ability to push the boundaries of his craft. With its intricate rhythms, haunting basslines, and expansive synth work, it’s a captivating listen from start to finish. This debut promises a bright future for Mono XL, marking the arrival of a unique voice in the electronic music scene. We’re excited to see where this journey will take de Lis and eagerly await what comes next.
