Austin, TX-based duo Melotheory is carving its niche in the industry with its brand of multi-faceted sound shaped by elements of indie-pop, rock, and retro musical styles with a unique modern twist. Led by  Lead by genre-bending producers Patrick Insull and Austin Pedersen their latest effort melotheory is a 10-track body of work that thrills audiences with an expansive sound, relatable topics and alluring melodic arrangements that push the boundary of expectations.

The project begins with a short instrumental intro “Rain, Pt 1” which sets the tone with its live concert feel. It starts with rich layered guitars that complement each other. One might mistake it for a downtempo rock piece but that changes when the synths come into play and audiences are whisked away into a potpourri of atmospheric pads and leads underpinned by punchy drums. This is followed by “Rain, Pts 2-3”,a dynamic piece made up of lush pads, a pulsating bass synth interwoven with rousing electric guitars, glitchy synth leads and off-centre drum grooves. This is all underpinned by a rich vocal performance and heartfelt songwriting that dwells on finding hope amid the gloom.  “Alone With/out You” is a reflective tune that bridges bedroom pop elements with contemporary music and a touch of indie sensibilities. The songwriting is enthralling as the band takes us into their world with expressive vocal runs and relatable lyrics that explore the complicated dynamics of love between individuals. You just never know what you would get and the trick is to find a true balance. “Stairwell” which is introduced by solemn bells and sultry vocals, is a slow burn that builds up into an emotional frenzy that catapults audiences into a comforting space where one can find solace with conflicting emotions. The production is cinematic and the use of layered harmonies on the pre-chorus raises the ante with its engulfing aesthetic.

“Emotional Catastrophe” sure lives up to its title and employs world-building techniques with its experimenatl production. The gradual soaring textures add to the build-up of pent-up feelings in the form of pulsating synths, rousing bass-driven grooves and a recurring vocal hum that stays prevalent in the minds. The end part is brilliant too and brings the excitement to a close with mellowed solemn chords that slowly fade out. Other notable tracks include the solemn “Breathe”, and the funk/disco-infused “Tonight” which celebrates seizing the day and not letting anything get in our way. This sound is also employed on “A World Away” albeit with a distinct pop/disco and R&B sensibility. Think of it like a modern-day BeeGees with a touch of swag and a youthful attitude.

The last two tracks “No Eyes Open” and “Suburban Melancholy Complex” each explore different topics ranging from soul-searching events to never-ending existentialism that sometimes throws one into a loop. Both tracks are distinct with the latter venturing into the modern indie rock arena while the former’s experimental pop aesthetic permeates through from start to finish.

Ultimately melotheory is an onion that unveils its tangy flavours over time. The band’s knack for moving the needle with their multi-genre sound is the icing on the cake with each song slightly changing paths with an unmistakable familiarity and a touch of edge to complete the job.