May 20, 2024

Skylight Webzine

Online since 2000

Tulipomania – Dreaming of Sleep

2 min read

Tulipomania’s “Dreaming of Sleep” is an ethereal sonic journey that delves into themes of outrage, powerlessness, and the peculiar sorrow that arises from these states of mind. Cheryl Gelover and Tom Murray, the creative forces behind Tulipomania, bring together a unique blend of experimental music and animation to create an immersive and thought-provoking experience.The album’s exploration of the ridiculous as a form of salvation is evident throughout the tracks. Gelover and Murray, who initially connected through experimental film and animantion classes, use their artistic collaboration to express the absurdity of the world and the often overwhelming anxiety and frustration that accompanies it. “Dreaming of Sleep” can be likened to an interpretive dance, a visceral reaction to the anxious and frustrating age in which we live. The lyrics, both conscious and subconscious, weave themes of loss, frustration, and fear, expressing emotions ranging from anger and disbelief to a realization of the lack of control over the surrounding circumstances. Musically, the album is a daring experiment in genre fusion, blending avant-garde, no-wave, post-punk, and electronica. The storytelling vocals seamlessly integrate with atmospheric and experimental instrumentation, creating a cinematic backdrop that pulls the listener into a different realm. With the lights off, the album becomes a portal to other galaxies, with each track unveiling a new layer of sonic exploration. One of the intriguing aspects of the album is its experimental use of sound. The music, at times, gives the illusion of playing in reverse. However, with active listening and the aid of headphones, the nuanced complexity becomes apparent. The drums lead the way, while the reverse audio accompanies them, creating an otherworldly auditory experience. A suggestion for an additional mix, where the synth follows a normal sequence while the drums play in reverse, could potentially enhance the yin-yang dynamic of the album. “Dreaming of Sleep” is a sonic adventure for those who appreciate atmospheric, experimental music coupled with ethereal vocals. The album’s ability to transport listeners to alternate dimensions through its unconventional soundscapes makes it a compelling and unique addition to the realm of avant-garde and post-punk music. If you seek an auditory journey that challenges traditional norms and embraces the surreal, then Tulipomania’s “Dreaming of Sleep” is an album worth exploring.

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