Milan Records releases The Album Leaf's original score for the movie Synchronic. The 26-track (53 min, 25 sec) record etches an immersive soundscape underpinned by synth transmissions, organic strings, artful experimentation, and moments of cathartic energy. When New Orleans paramedics Steve and Dennis are called to a series of bizarre, gruesome accidents, they chalk it up to the mysterious new party drug found at the scene. But after Dennis’s oldest daughter suddenly disappears, Steve stumbles upon a terrifying truth about the supposed psychedelic that will challenge everything he knows about reality - and the flow of time itself...

I truly can see how this music works in the film in order to add an unsettling atmosphere and an uneasy vibe to keep you on the edge of your seat. And, for the film, this music is perfect and The Album Leaf should be proud of what they have composed. However, listening to this on its own merits, without the onscreen imagery, is rather odd. Yes it's still unsettling, but when would you listen to it? As you take a morning jog? As you're relaxing? As a mood enhancer for a romantic evening in? Other than background music for a serial killer... I really can't fathom when I'd want to listen to this for pleasure.

Of the soundtrack, The Album Leaf says: "With Synchronic, I created a custom synth patch to replicate what the drug may sound like and where it could send you in time. I was then able to find my way within the film, accompanying its many twists and turns while keeping the score cohesive. This time I was also able to collaborate with vocalists Angela Liu and Lola Blanc, multi-instrumentalist James McAlister, cellist Clarice Jensen, violinist Jake Falby, percussionist Joe Wong and cellist and double bassist Gabe Noel – I’m grateful to each performer’s improvisation and performance. I think the score supports the film well and am excited to share it!"

The Album Leaf has filled the brief completely and more than delivered an engaging soundscape... but only when listened to with the confines of the movie. Atmospheric and emotive... yet paradoxically rather lifeless when listened to in isolation. 'Synchronic Credits', which rounds off the album, is a beautiful ambient electronic theme and probably the only track which stands on its own two feet.

5

Darren Rea