Sam Akpro’s debut album, Evenfall, cements his identity as a creator of atmospheric urban soundscapes. The South London artist skillfully fuses the ethereal elements of shoegaze with the jagged edges of post-hardcore, resulting in a record that is both carefully crafted and emotionally impactful. The album excels at establishing a tangible atmosphere, portraying the city’s nighttime heartbeat as a character unto itself.
The opening track, “I Can’t See The Sun,” instantly sets the mood with a post-punk bassline and sluggish, ska-inflected rhythms that evoke the sensation of moving through damp, poorly lit streets. The subtle inclusion of a dial-up modem’s whirring introduces an unsettling touch of modernity, a nod to the digital age’s all-encompassing influence. As the album unfolds, Akpro skillfully layers sonic textures, from the sparkling disco strings of “City Sleeps” to the menacing, helicopter-like buzz in “Baka,” with each element enhancing the album’s immersive experience.
“Death By Entertainment” highlights Akpro’s architectural sound approach, featuring towering guitar arrangements that appear ready to collapse yet maintain a delicate balance. This track, showcasing his collaboration with producer Shrink, epitomises the album’s capacity to evoke spaces that feel both expansive and constricted, mirroring the city’s contradictory essence. “Chicago Town” emerges as a standout, offering a psychedelic sound swirl grounded by a rhythmic underpinning reminiscent of J Dilla. Akpro’s repeated line, “So we both / Stay afloat,” introduces a layer of introspective fragility, hovering above the chaotic guitar riffs.
The title track, “Evenfall,” represents the album’s emotional center, encapsulating the transitional space between light and dark. Akpro’s vocal delivery, which discovers melody in the shadows, is enriched by his band’s intricate exchanges as they meticulously assemble and dismantle sonic structures. “Cherry” explores a hypnotic, anxiety-laden terrain, with its drum ‘ n ‘ bass beats and layered vocals establishing a sense of disquiet. The album closes with “Cornering Lights,” leaving the audience with an enduring feeling of urban solitude.
Evenfall showcases Akpro’s talent for creating a cohesive and immersive auditory experience. Each track, from the opening notes to the concluding moments, is filled with significance, contributing to the album’s complex and emotionally rich portrayal of modern city life.
