Empty Spaces After Dark – A Journey Through Shadows and Synths
Alright, let’s talk about Empty Spaces After Dark by Empty Spaces After Dark. Yeah, I know, the name is kinda like a mirror reflecting itself, but don’t let that trip you up. This 2016 release from the US dives deep into electronic vibes with styles ranging from breaks to acid and dark ambient. If you’re into moody soundscapes that feel like wandering through an abandoned warehouse at 3 AM, this one’s for you.
The album came out on Castle Bravo—a label known for its experimental edge—and boy, does it deliver. There are 12 tracks here, each with its own vibe, but two stood out so much they’ve been stuck in my head ever since.
First up: “Nightlight.” Now, when I saw the title, I thought, “Oh cool, something soft and comforting,” but nah, not even close. It’s more like the flickering lightbulb in your grandma’s basement—eerie yet kinda hypnotic. The track starts off slow, all atmospheric and spacey, then BAM! These sharp breakbeats crash in like someone just kicked open a door. You can almost picture shadows dancing on the walls while some unseen force whispers secrets behind you. Honestly, it feels cinematic, like the soundtrack to a movie scene where everything goes sideways but also kinda beautiful.
Then there’s “Dreams of a Telepath.” Oof, this one hits different. It’s got this pulsing bassline that worms its way into your brain and refuses to leave (in the best way). There’s a dreamy quality to it, like floating underwater or walking through fog, but there’s also this underlying tension, like you’re being watched. By the time those acid synths kick in halfway through, it’s game over—you’re fully immersed. Every listen feels like discovering something new, which is rare these days.
Other tracks like “Horror” live up to their names, giving off serious spooky vibes, while “Unheard Prayers” slows things down with haunting echoes and minimal beats. And yeah, the whole “After Dark” theme ties everything together nicely—it really does feel like music made for late nights and empty spaces.
So, what’s the takeaway? Listening to this album feels like stepping into another world—one that’s equal parts unsettling and mesmerizing. It’s not perfect; sometimes the pacing drags a bit, and a few tracks blend together if you’re not paying attention. But isn’t that kind of the point? It’s supposed to make you lose yourself.
Here’s the weird part though—after listening to this album, I couldn’t stop thinking about how much it reminded me of old-school video games. Like, imagine playing a creepy RPG where every corner holds a mystery. Maybe that’s just me, but hey, music should spark random thoughts, right?
If you dig electronic stuff that leans darker and weirder, give Empty Spaces After Dark a spin. Just maybe don’t listen alone in the dark… unless you’re into that sorta thing.
