“E C H O“ by Freya Arde

“E C H O” by Freya Arde is an ethereal and transportive album that merges classical instrumentation with some dreamy pop elements to create landscapes that feel both modern and nostalgic. Arde, a guitarist, producer, and film composer from Berlin, has an ear for crafting compelling sonic journeys. These nine mostly instrumental tracks are understated and impactful. They each use only a few instruments, but every instrument has a huge impact. From mournful strings to emotional piano to shimmering electric guitars, the transcendent atmospheres in “E C H O” keep the listener hooked from start to finish. 

Some tracks, like the opener and title track “Echo,” have more rhythmic walking piano and swaying strings, while others are more meandering and unpredictable, such as “Farewell.” These contrasting, yet cohesive tones give the album a dynamic and invigorating journey. You never quite know where each song will take you, but you know you’re going to enjoy it the whole time. Recorded with a string trio, the orchestral parts are definitely the standout of the album. They lift you up, they pull you close, and they bring all of your deepest, untapped emotions right to the surface of your mind.

The closing track, “Precious,” is another standout on the album, opening with subtle electric guitar that plays back and forth between just a few notes. Arde’s ambient vocals are intimate and warm, letting you sink blissfully into the song. The track remains intimate the entire time, with some very subtle strings offering a little ear candy towards the end, before the song, and the album, fades into the abyss.

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