Breaking out onto the acid house scene in 1988, Orbital has become one of the greatest duos in the genre. Over their 30 years of professional DJing and producing, this iconic duo hasn’t lost their touch. Consisting of brothers Phil and Paul Hartnoll, Orbital hails from England but has expanded its influence around the world. Now, this pair of innovators have released their tenth LP, Optical Delusion.
Overflowing with hypnotic basslines and reality-distorting effects, Optical Delusion is a giant accomplishment for Orbital. They show their followers that after such a long time in the music industry, they are still able to open new doors in sound design. Orbital collaborates with a bunch of gifted artists throughout the album, such as Penelope Isles who delivers riveting vocals on “Are You Alive?”. Another original from the compilation with breathtaking lyrics is “Home” with Anna B Savage. Her one-of-a-kind voice and Orbital’s snare-filled bassline transport its audience to a faraway galaxy.
Just as mesmerizing as “Home” is “The New Abnormal”. Encompassing dreamy soundscapes and celestial chord progressions, this anthem makes you feel as if you’re floating on a cloud. Rounding out the album are songs like “Moon Princess”. A collab with Coppe, this single is filled with overlapping echoes and futuristic sound design that radiate futuristic cyberpunk vibes. It is clear that each track in Optical Delusion drives home a powerful message while putting listeners in an auditory trance.
After the unveiling of Optical Delusion, Orbital has no plans to slow down anytime soon and is sure to put out more surprises during the rest of the year.