Michael Oakley has returned the spotlight with the release of his first full length album, “Introspect!”
Each track on this record is steeped in authentic nostalgia – just bleeding pure retro sounds from start to neon finish.
It was just over a year and a half ago Michael Oakley burst into the synth scene with his first EP “California.” Now his debut full length album “Introspect” is receiving equally high praise from the synth community – although much has changed with Oakley’s sound with this follow-up release.
“Introspect” has done away with some of the dreamy synth tones of “California” in favor of a sharper, more authentic retro feel. Each of the tracks from “Introspect” feel as if they could have been created in late 80s – albeit with modern production. Speaking of which, “California’s” production was certainly crisp, but “Introspect” is a cut above its predecessor.
Each individual track also swings wildly through various synthwave genres – from upbeat roller rink synthpop to crooning late 80’s ballads (with Dana Jean Pheonix no less!) and everything in between. Herein lies the real triumph of this album – marrying all of those authentic sounds together under one cohesive record. Oakley is able to achieve this feat through the use of his voice – brining it out of the background of his earlier work and right into the front of the mix. With this Oakley has created something truly special that will stand out for years to come.
Still growing from his move from Glasgow to Canada, Oakley related in a quick chat that the album itself was about actual introspect he was facing in his personal life – and that many of the lyrics reflected true stories from his life.
“I called the album “Introspect” because when I moved away from Glasgow to Canada it was the only way I could stand outside my life as I knew it, that bubble I was in, and look at it all from a distance in a more objective way.”
“Introspect” is, in short, a fantastic and authentic update to Michael Oakely’s signature sound. Check out the album below!
Top Tracks: “Control” “Left Behind” “Now I’m Alive (Feat. Dana Jean Pheonix)”
