Every album is unique, it gives artists a chance to establish a sound for themself and share those songs that have been burning holes in their harddrives. ‘Gold Dust’ ,the debut album by Israeli singer songwriter Adar Alfandari is no exception. Unlike most however, this 14 song project is a display of versatility, vulnerability, and talent.
Skillful guitar licks greet you on the first song of the album ‘How I’m Gonna Make You Mine’. The light lyrics talk about regrets and what drives Alfandari. He sounds at home singing over both the thicker texture and the solo acoustic guitar. Whenever the fiddle entered it’d put a smile on my face.
‘Gold Dust’ is versatile and draws influences from all over. Some songs feel like folk, and utilize acoustic strings, and others electric guitars and brass instruments. Sometimes the songs feel contemplative, other times fed up with everything going on. Despite these massively different vibes, it retains the same sheen throughout its entirety. By the end of the album, Adar Alfandari’s style is evident and the similarities of songs shine over the differences.
Pay Day demonstrated the versatility of Adar Alfandari. The sound was both familiar and new. Occasionally even sounding like an Arctic Monkeys song. Despite that, the poetic and groovy lyrics were totally it’s own. The solo section was unlike anything I’ve ever heard – it was tasteful and fit the song incredibly.
At no point did the album feel the need to lean on the vocals. Instrumental lines are interesting and compliment what’s going on in the melody. No one voice feels more important than another; really allowing the beauty of songs to shine through.
The lyricism throughout the album was conversational yet brutally honest. Although I may not speak Hebrew and cannot attest to the content matter I found the addition of them to add depth to the album. Plus their energy was just awesome.
One of my favorite parts of ‘Gold Dust’ was the wide variety of influences it drew upon. Acoustic strings dance alongside the vocals with the same energy the electronics bring. The versatility through all the different styles had me constantly checking that I didn’t accidentally switch artists. Throughout it all, Adar Alfandari shows mastery and comfort.
Occasional instrumental solos break the album up and add beauty. From the solo on ‘אקדח פיקות to the interludes I found them enchanting. Not only did that, but they allow moments when there are lyrics to stand out even more. In fact, the second the solo starts it draws in your attention. Same thing when it ends. Overall, they help round out the album phenomenally and I loved them.
Each new sound felt well refined and supported the energy of the project as a whole. It was one of the best projects I’ve heard this year. So many different things happened, and I enjoyed them all. A wonderful debut, and well worth the time it took to listen. I highly recommend it.
The versatility through all the different styles had me constantly checking that I didn’t accidentally switch artists
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