RIIZE’s new album has a very strong visual element, with music videos or shortened “track videos” for each song. Because of this (and because the album is so strong), I’ll be working through the entire track list over the next few days. Make sure to check back often!

1. Odyssey // 2. Bag Bad Back // 3. Ember To Solar // 4. Fly Up // 5. Show Me Love // 6. Passage // 7. Midnight Mirage // 8. The End Of The Day // 9. Inside My Love // 10. Another Life

MIDNIGHT MIRAGE

I’ve seen Midnight Mirage held up as an album highlight from many on the internet, but it’s my least favorite song. That’s almost entirely due to its production choices. Try as I might, my ears just do not enjoy trap production. To me, those insistent hi-hats instantly make any song feel tinny and brittle, but I’ve learned over the years that I have a tricky time with higher-pitched sounds in general. I much prefer fuller, rounded tones. That predilection probably dates all the way back to the thumping bass of 90’s hip-hop and r&b, upon which much of my music taste was initially fostered.

With that said, the actual song built atop this production is very solid. The chorus is beautiful and takes great advantage of the group’s vocal blend. Given more robust production, this could have been a lush highlight. Imagine how Midnight Mirage might sound if its trap beat had been replaced with unique, sparkling synth tones.

The other point that takes me out of Midnight Mirage are its verses. I find them melodically predictable and dull, utilizing a flow I’ve heard countless times over the past few years. This makes the song feel way trendier than everything else on the album, and trendy fare tends to date the fastest. Thankfully, we’ve got a near-acapella version of the chorus to look forward to at Midnight Mirage‘s climax. Come to think of it, this song would work so well as a full-on acapella piece.

Grade: C