Album Review: Ellis Brain by Harmonya
Released in 1994, Ellis Brain by Harmonya is a gem of the Italian electronic scene that deserves its place in the pantheon of Progressive Trance. Released under the P&P label, this album showcases Lello B.'s vision as a writer, arranger, and producer—a triple threat who crafted something both timeless and deeply evocative. It's not just an album; it’s like stepping into a dreamworld where beats pulse with life and synths spiral into infinity.
Let’s get real for a sec. The standout track here has to be "Elli's Brain (Main Dream)." This one grabs you from the first bar. Its hypnotic bassline feels like it’s pulling you underwater—peaceful yet slightly unsettling, kinda like staring at the ocean floor. The layers build so subtly you don’t even realize you’re lost until you’re fully submerged. And those shimmering arpeggios? They feel like sunlight breaking through waves. Honestly, I can’t hear this track without zoning out completely. If you’ve ever wanted music to soundtrack your inner monologue, this is it.
Another banger worth mentioning is "Elli's Brain (Club Mix)." This version flips the mood entirely—it’s darker, grittier, more aggressive. Where the Main Dream floats, the Club Mix stomps. Imagine walking into a packed rave in ‘90s Italy, sweat dripping off the walls, strobe lights flashing, and everyone moving as one organism. That’s what this mix does—it demands movement. It’s raw energy bottled up and shaken loose. You won’t sit still during this one, trust me.
Now let’s talk about the elephant in the room: there’s no title for one of the tracks. Weird flex, but okay. Maybe it’s intentional? Like, maybe they wanted us to fill in the blanks ourselves. Or maybe someone forgot to name it. Either way, it adds a quirky charm to the whole thing.
Looking back on Ellis Brain, it’s clear how much of a product of its time it is. But instead of feeling dated, it feels nostalgic in the best possible way. Listening to it now, you almost expect to see old-school computer graphics or pixelated visuals accompanying the soundscapes. Funny enough, though, the album doesn’t scream “Italy” at all—it could’ve come from anywhere, which makes it even cooler. Music transcends borders, right?
Final thought? Here’s the kicker: despite being nearly 30 years old, Ellis Brain still holds its own against modern productions. In fact, some newer tracks could learn a thing or two from Lello B.’s masterclass in restraint and atmosphere. So if you’re digging for something that blends retro vibes with forward-thinking ideas, give this one a spin. Just don’t blame me when you start dreaming in Progressive Trance.
