FOSS’s *Shapeless* unfolds with a blend of raw emotion and experimental sound, reflecting Romain Collin’s unique creative process during his isolated stay in Iceland. Each song on the album offers a distinct piece of this artistic journey, revealing different layers of Collin’s introspection and the influence of his surroundings. “Tell the Northern Lights” opens the album with a delicate and ethereal sound. Inspired by the aurora borealis, the track combines Collin’s soft, introspective vocals with shimmering synths and gentle beats. The production, overseen by Jeremy Loucas, creates a sense of awe and wonder, mirroring the magical experience of witnessing the Northern Lights. It’s a captivating introduction that sets the tone for the rest of the album.
“Vik” continues this atmospheric journey with a tranquil and meditative quality. Named after the mystical Icelandic town, the track features a rich blend of vibraphone, cello, and harp. This combination creates a soothing, textured soundscape that evokes a sense of drifting through time and space. The music feels like a serene reflection of the quiet beauty Collin encountered in Iceland. The title track, “Shapeless,” introduces a shift in energy with its driving beat and hypnotic rhythm. Collin’s falsetto, paired with Loucas’s analog drum programming, creates a stark contrast between the isolation of Iceland and the hectic pace of New York City. The repetitive nature of the track’s melody and lyrics adds to its introspective and almost trance-like quality. “Young” brings a nostalgic touch to the album with its dreamy production and reflective lyrics. The song recalls a time of innocence and simplicity, with Collin’s piano work standing out as both poignant and evocative. The track’s gentle, wistful tone offers a moment of introspection and reminiscence amidst the album’s more experimental elements. In “One Last Try,” Collin delivers a deeply emotional ballad. The track is marked by its sparse arrangement, focusing on Collin’s raw, vulnerable vocals and piano. The lyrics express a poignant sense of longing and hope, making it one of the album’s most emotionally powerful moments. “Rubber Love” shifts the mood with its gritty, industrial sound. The track features pulsating beats and distorted synths, creating a stark contrast to the earlier, more delicate songs. Collin’s distant, echoing vocals contribute to the sense of alienation and detachment, adding a darker, more intense layer to the album. “Everybody Seems So Happy” offers a complex and bittersweet perspective. The track’s upbeat melody contrasts with the underlying sadness in the lyrics, creating a layered listening experience. The blend of live instruments and electronic elements adds depth, making the song feel both vibrant and melancholic. “We Are Not Estranged” provides a moment of connection and reflection. The soothing melody and heartfelt lyrics emphasize the importance of human relationships, even in solitude. Collin’s piano and vocals are central to the track, supported by subtle instrumentation that enhances its emotional resonance. “Untitled” serves as an instrumental interlude, featuring a haunting and atmospheric soundscape. The track’s swirling synths and soft, pulsating beats create a sense of unease and introspection. It acts as a contemplative pause, allowing the listener to absorb and reflect on the themes of the album.
The album concludes with “How Could We Be?,” a poignant ballad that feels like a final, resigned plea. Collin’s bare piano and vocals, combined with a sparse arrangement, leave a lasting impression of solitude and introspection. The track’s simplicity allows the raw emotion of Collin’s performance to shine through, offering a reflective end to the album. Shapeless is a deeply evocative album that captures the essence of Collin’s isolated creative process and the stark beauty of his surroundings. Each track contributes to a cohesive narrative of introspection, emotional depth, and experimental sound, making it a powerful and immersive listening experience.
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