Pranatricks is among those authors whose works captivate not by their semantic or ideological content, but by how he perceives the world around him. Pranatricks isn’t afraid to experiment, deconstruct, or reframe genres, and his authorial vision knows no bounds. The music created by Pranatricks is far from being the most friendly piece of art; it’s highly experimental, provocative, and surrealistic melodies, yet not pretentious as it might seem to the mass audience. Pranatricks is the kind of author whose works one wants to return to again and again. Nearly every piece he produces is a significant statement for the indie genre, which, like good wine, only gets better with time. His new, second full-length album, ‘Elements of’, was released on April 4th, and naturally, we couldn’t overlook this event.
photo by @pranatricks
I can’t help but draw a parallel between ‘Elements of’ and Pranatricks’ debut album “Cherished,” which was named the best album of the year by Indie Boulevard in 2022. Why, you may ask? Because even a century later, this album will sound timeless, its truly mysterious magnetism continuously draws attention. The key is the ability to detach oneself from the external world and maintain control over emotions while listening. After all, it is through this self-control that one approaches understanding their ideals and perfection, upon which Pranatricks’ music is based. What I’m saying is, the new album ‘Elements of’ not only continues the same line started in “Cherished” but also doubles the effectiveness of that very attractive Pranatricks formula.
This is an utterly uncompromising experience for the listener, knowing no boundaries in its own sound. Pranatricks has created a truly immersive and multifaceted album, at times noisy but meticulously crafted, turning its listening into a genuine pleasure. ‘Elements of’ belongs to the category of albums that, after listening, don’t let go of the listener. Even after some time, the desire to return and hear it again doesn’t fade away. Moreover, the album may not necessarily appeal to everyone, as ‘Elements of’ is music not for all. It’s that very vision of the author that the viewer either falls in love with instantly and never falls out of love with, or grows to dislike, left dissatisfied with its too experimental sound. But surprisingly, over time, ‘Elements of’ will somehow start to take on a new life in their mind. Undoubtedly, it’s a musical catharsis through which not only Pranatricks himself passes but also the listener.
photo by @pranatricks
Unlike “Cherished,” the new album needs time to digest in the mind, it requires allowing it to mature in the subconscious, and only then, with the passage of time, will Pranatricks’ work shine with new facets and colors, ultimately becoming much friendlier and more understandable, as music about self-discovery should be. There’s a lot of noise genre here, psychedelia, as in tracks like “Cobras” and “Worlds,” yet Pranatricks also showcases his melodic side in the relatively light bluesy track “Johnny Self” and the pop-rock track “Lights & Machines.” Frankly, he has concocted an absolutely cosmic cocktail, seasoning it all with his signature sound, vision, presentation, and uncompromising attitude. Such an approach and duality of Pranatricks will permeate the air throughout the entire album.
The final track, “Start to End,” is one of the strongest on the album. Here, Pranatricks once again demonstrates that with just one guitar and a few chords, one can create an exceptional piece that includes gripping moments, hooks, cinematic climaxes, and profound meaning. This track resembles a western with elements of psychedelia, unmatched in its style. Superb!
It is commonly accepted that art should evoke emotions, and ‘Elements of’ by Pranatricks is capable of evoking such a vast spectrum of emotions in its listeners that no one can remain indifferent to Pranatricks’ new work. This album incites the desire to explore it, to immerse oneself in it, becoming a part of it, where everyone will find something of their own. So, if you are unable to overcome your own inhibitions, then risk missing out on a true masterpiece.
Indie Boulevard Magazine 