Album Review: Arcanum by Following Light & Relic
Alright, let’s talk about Arcanum, the killer 2012 release from Following Light & Relic. If you're into electronic music with a progressive house vibe, this one's worth your time. Released under Tasty Music Recordings (a label that knows how to pick 'em), it’s got that perfect mix of energy and atmosphere. Plus, coming out of the US scene in 2012? Yeah, those were some good years for dance floors.
The album kicks off strong with Arcanum (Original Mix). Man, this track hits different. It starts subtle—soft pads, almost like a warm-up—but then BAM, the beat drops, and suddenly you’re not just listening anymore; you’re feeling it. The groove builds steadily, layering synths and rhythms until everything clicks into place. What sticks with me is how smooth the transitions are. You don’t notice when one element fades out or another sneaks in—it’s seamless, man. Perfect for late-night drives or zoning out after a long day.
Then there’s Arcanum.. (yeah, same name but trust me, totally different). This version feels darker, edgier. There’s an intensity here that grabs hold and doesn’t let go. The bassline has more grit, and the melodies feel sharper, like they’re cutting through fog. I remember spinning this at a friend’s party once, and people stopped talking mid-convo just to figure out what song was playing. That’s the power of a banger right there.
What makes Arcanum stand out isn’t just its sound—it’s the mood it creates. These tracks aren’t trying too hard to impress; they just do. They’re confident without being flashy, intricate without overloading you. And honestly? That’s rare in progressive house sometimes. Too many producers try to cram every trick into a single song, but Following Light & Relic keep things tight and focused.
Reflecting on this album now, I can’t help but think about how timeless it feels. Even though it dropped over a decade ago, these tunes still slap. Maybe it’s because progressive house never really goes out of style, or maybe it’s just proof that Following Light & Relic knew exactly what they were doing back then. Either way, Arcanum deserves a spot in any serious playlist.
Oh, and here’s a weird thought to leave you with: if aliens ever landed and asked us to explain human emotions through music, I’d hand them this album. Not sure why—it just feels universal, ya know?
