• STYLE /Dreamwave, Chillwave, Synthpop
  • RELEASE DATE /March 25, 2019
  • CATALOG /X
  • LABEL /Self-released
  • FORMAT /Digital, CD & Cassette

RSW rating ➔

¦ 9/10 ¦
Fantastic LP

Our Few Words

One of the most hyped up synthwave artists in the past few weeks has dropped an album.

Hailing from Liverpool, Kalax has been a musician in the shadows of the synthwave scene. Those who listen to his music know how triumphant he is with his sound. III is his brand new LP which has gathered some well deserved attention. With no help from labels and record deals he has grown into a superb DIY synthwave force that can only be admired.

86′ is a kick starting intro delivering a solid beat before moving on to the chilled Let Go (Feat. Anton Vic). Dream continues that relaxing vibe. Not Alone (Feat. Player One) is a ferocious power anthem that stomps through the speakers. Out of Control (Kidburn) should be soaring through the charts and is one of the best tracks III. Neon Blood (feat Mcrocklin) rocks just like the Lethal Weapon score. Night Dreamer is one of the best cruising songs for 2019.

Hold On Tight (Feat. Ryan Leslie) is a fast paced charge through the half way point of the album. Signs (Feat. McRocklin and Future Punk) provides more guitar and vocal talent. Out of Time (Feat. Jay Diggs and PYXIS) offers a classic easy listening synthwave magic. Lili is another incredible instrumental carrying the album from one pillar to another. Calling (Feat. Frankmusik) has this awesome Hall and Oates vibe. III ends with two lengthy but entertaining instrumentals with Shibuya Lights and Stronger.

III is an absolute colossus of an album and never fails to impress. Some of the instrumentals may be long but listening through track by track you’re intoxicated by the sheer brilliance Kalax has provided. This album alone has set the bar for any synthwave artists who are making a fresh album.

The several guest appearances, the musical compositions and atmosphere III creates is more than enough reason to buy this album. III is a tremendous journey from start to finish. The mix of instrumentals and vocal songs measure perfectly for such a giant album. It a firm example of what a perfect synthwave album is and hopefully this will bring more exposure to the Liverpool sensation.

With more live performances and news an EP is already in the works Kalax is simply unstoppable at the moment.

– Matthew Clewley