Album Review: The synth vibes of new Dena Hope record In Transit
The local electronic music scene has expanded rapidly with a raft of female powered acts dotting the landscape. Synth-popster Dena Hope is one of the latest artists to hit the Austin scene. Joining local acts who have already adopted the expanding genre, Hope brings her own artistic vision with likes of Austin acts Primo the Alien, Flora and Fawna, and Dossey. Her latest endeavor the In Transit EP set to release January 31, projects feelings of calmness with slow rising waves of synth followed by the gentle tug of tranquil guitar melodies. The EP connects on a personal level as Hope’s vocals cut through the swarm of electronic sound waves.
Expect to hear influences of your favorite 80s new wave band with guitar riffs that emulate the likes of Depeche Mode and storytelling in the vein of Robyn. Dena Hope’s sound was formed with the help of songwriter and producer Don Cento who has played with Sarah Jaffe and Ume. Cento brought in the talent of Aaron Perez (Ume, Lowin, Yukon Gold) on drums and Bryan Richie (The Sword, Galactic Protector, Yukon Gold) on bass and synthesizer. Lockhart-based producer, Danny Reisch of Good Danny’s put the finishing touches on Hope’s debut EP. Reisch was able to pull something special from each song and elevate the sound to the next level.
Opening track “A Lie,” previously released as a single in late October opens the album followed by the bass heavy “Broken Heart,” released in December of last year.
“Broken Heart” originates from an impromptu writing exercise given to Hope from singer, Sabrina Ellis of A Giant Dog, Sweet Spirit and Heart Bones. After the pair spent an evening together, Hope left Ellis armed with a post-it note containing two lines from a conversation they had. From that prompt, the song “People Talk” was born. “It just kind of poured out of me”, said Hope, “the hook basically wrote itself, the second half of the song came later after some development with my producer.”
“Like Glitter,” takes a turn into a melancholic avenue as “People Talk” picks up the pace into a smooth ride.
“Stay” completes the powerful EP that will have you playing the record repeatedly.
The album “In Transit” is a magnificent EP from beginning to end, expanding the Austin electronic movement in an exciting direction. We think fans will agree.
Mark your calendars the “In Transit” release show will take place on February 13th at Cheer Up Charlies with support from local synth acts Flora and Fawna, Primo the Alien, and Saint Loretto.
Ed. Note: Samara Simpson contributed to this story
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