365x2024 Week 6: I was in a Virtual Paradise

Virtual Paradise by Starjunk 95 and BELELA 
I reserve 5/5 ratings for tracks that move me in a way that so radically shifts my perspective on music and feelings that I am forever marked.  Va 5/5 has truly earned its rating (and title). A virtual sonic smorgasborg bursting with splashes of detail and delight too fast, too complex, and too numerous to catch on just one listen through. Every 4 bar phrase brings new tones, new turnarounds, new effects and yet somehow each pass through feels familiar.  No one push is so far or so fast that it feels jarring but somehow by the end of the track you're in another world (and BPM).  Pay attention to every little moment.

Double-Barrel Prayer by Diamanda Galás
Found on the 3rd album in a trilogy about the AIDS epidemic, this track is full of meaning.  Galás, trained in classical and experimental music, brings incredible attention to the tones found in her music.  Her attention to tone in her voice is evident in line ranging from heavy chants to squeals and howls.  Layered vocals and reverb add an air of dimension.  The most noteworthy element of sound in this track is the out of tune piano. Somehow perfectly out of tune.

Full track list for this week:

• Virtual Paradise by Starjunk 95, BELELA
• Simply Irresistible by Robert Palmer
• Double-Barrel Prayer by Diamanda Galás
• Grenade by Bruno Mars
• 7 Rings by Ariana Grande
• Cold Blooded by Rick James
• Super Freaky Girl by Nicki Minaj