Away From This Dream
Embracing Evolution and Emotional Resonance
Icelandic alt-pop artist Axel Flóvent returns with his highly anticipated sophomore album, Away From This Dream. Released via Nettwerk, this album reflects Axel’s ongoing evolution as an artist, blending folk eloquence with alternative sonic expression and magnetic pop elements. The album showcases his growth, both personally and musically, as he embraces life’s ebb and flow through his art.
The Production Journey
Throughout 2023, Axel meticulously wrote and recorded what would become Away From This Dream. The album was recorded and mixed in London with British producers MyRiot, known for their work with London Grammar and Aurora. This collaboration brought a refined, atmospheric touch to Axel’s sound, enhancing the emotional depth and sonic richness of the album.
One notable addition to Axel’s sonic palette was the vintage Roland Juno-60 keyboard. Axel described his obsession with the Juno-60, noting that the entire demo process involved experimenting with this synthesizer. This experimentation marked a departure from his reliance on the acoustic guitar, allowing for a more diverse and textured sound. Axel’s use of live percussion, piano, and electric guitar during the recording sessions added layers of complexity and warmth to the album.
Axel’s production approach on this album was marked by a blend of meticulous craftsmanship and spontaneous creativity. He demoed 30 songs, ultimately selecting the ten best tracks for the album. This selective process ensured that each song contributed uniquely to the overall narrative and emotional arc of the album.
Axel Flóvent’s Artistic Vision
Axel Flóvent has always admired artists who evolve with each album, and Away From This Dream is a testament to his own artistic growth. He explains, “I’ve always been a big fan of artists who evolve on each album. I don’t feel limited in terms of what I can do. It’s important for me to be able to explore a variety of sounds to show different sides of myself. I wanted to create an album I could perform with a band for a lot of people at a festival or you could listen to on headphones alone.”
This vision is palpable throughout the album. Axel’s ability to blend folk storytelling with alternative and pop influences creates a sound that is both intimate and expansive. His music evokes a sense of place and emotion, transporting listeners to the landscapes of his native Iceland while also resonating with universal themes of love, loss, and self-discovery.
Track-by-Track Review
1. Moonlight Stars Burning Out, Heart Illuminated
The album opens with “Moonlight,” a track that gently immerses listeners into Axel’s sonic world. The song features ethereal guitar lines and shimmering keys, building into a natural crescendo that sets the tone for the journey ahead. The lyrics, reflecting on indecision and the desire for connection, resonate with a universal longing for presence and companionship.
2. Don’t Wait For Summer Anticipation in Every Note
The second track, “Don’t Wait For Summer,” offers a breezy yet poignant message about seizing the moment. Axel’s vocals glide effortlessly over entrancing music, urging listeners to act on their feelings rather than waiting for an ideal time. The song’s infectious rhythm and heartfelt lyrics make it a standout, inviting listeners to embrace the present.
3. Have This Dance Love in a New Light
“Have This Dance” explores the exhilaration of seeing the world anew while falling in love. Axel’s tender vocals and the song’s uplifting melody capture the essence of newfound romance. The light over the town becomes a metaphor for the transformative power of love, illuminating paths previously unexplored.
4. Wash It Away Delicate Reflections on Codependency
“Wash It Away” delves into the complexities of emotional connections and codependency. Axel’s delicate touch as a songwriter is evident here, with lyrics that convey the struggle of maintaining one’s identity in a relationship. The graceful melody highlights the vulnerability and introspection that characterize this track.
5. Chasing The Night Retro Rhythms and Relentless Pursuit
With “Chasing The Night,” Axel taps into the retro sounds of the eighties, creating an exhilarating track that pulses with energy. The song’s driving beat and echoed guitar lines evoke a sense of relentless pursuit, capturing the tension between desire and reality. It’s a dynamic addition to the album, showcasing Axel’s versatility.
6. This Feeling Overwhelmed by Summer Love
“This Feeling” introduces a dreamy atmosphere, with Axel’s quiet reflection on the overwhelming nature of love. The song’s minimalist beat and layered harmonies create a daze-like effect, mirroring the introspective and transient emotions of summer romance. Axel’s ability to convey complex feelings with subtlety shines through.
7. When The Sun Goes Down Optimism and Tranquility at Dusk
“When The Sun Goes Down” offers a warm and entranced pop sound, blending an optimistic message with soothing melodies. The song’s imagery of nighttime and the stars moving forward provides a sense of calm and continuity, emphasizing the beauty of resilience and hope.
8. Asymmetry Yearning for Perfection in Simplicity
“Asymmetry” stands out for its stunning simplicity. Axel’s intricate falsetto and quietly contemplative piano chords create a poignant exploration of imperfections and the quest for perfection. The track’s emotional depth and raw honesty make it a highlight of the album.
9. Honesty Facing Inner Truths
“Honesty” delves into the struggles of self-awareness and vulnerability. Axel’s introspective lyrics and the song’s enthralling melody invite listeners to reflect on their own truths and fears. The percussion and cascading pop style adds modern touch, blending seamlessly with the song’s emotive core.
10. Away From This Dream Closing on a High Note
The album closes with its sweeping title track, “Away From This Dream.” Dipping once again into eighties pop euphoria, the song captures the excitement of love and the journey toward self-discovery. Axel’s wish for the record to become a long-term companion for listeners is palpable, leaving a lingering positive note.
Conclusion
In Away From This Dream, Axel Flóvent has created an album that is not just a collection of songs, but a profound emotional journey. His meticulous attention to detail, innovative production choices, and heartfelt lyrics come together to craft a deeply personal and universally relatable experience. From the delicate introspection of “Wash It Away” to the retro-infused energy of “Chasing The Night,” each track offers a unique glimpse into Axel’s evolving artistry.
As someone who has followed Axel’s career from his early days with the Forest Fires EP, this album feels like witnessing a friend coming into their own. His ability to blend introspective folk elements with lush, alternative pop soundscapes creates a rich, immersive listening experience. The way he captures fleeting emotions and moments of self-discovery resonates deeply, making Away From This Dream an album that lingers long after the last note fades.
For me, Axel’s music is a companion through various phases of life, offering solace, inspiration, and a sense of connection. Away From This Dream is no exception; it feels like a personal letter from Axel to his listeners, inviting us to grow and evolve alongside him. His genuine artistry and emotional honesty shine through every track, making this album not just a milestone in his career, but a testament to the enduring power of music to move and transform us.
