Virtual World by Loser20: A Vaporwave Escape That Sticks With You
Alright, let me just say this upfront—Virtual World isn’t your average electronic album. Released in 2015 by Loser20 (a mysterious figure tied to the UK and Portugal), it’s one of those records that feels like stepping into a dream you don’t wanna wake up from. It’s got all the hallmarks of vaporwave—retro synths, glitchy loops, and an eerie nostalgia—but there’s something about it that hits different. Maybe it’s how raw it feels or how unapologetically weird it gets. Whatever it is, I’m here for it.
The album came out under two labels—or maybe no label at all? There’s Aloe City Records, which sounds kinda chill, and then there’s Not On Label (Loser2.0 Self-released). Honestly, the whole thing feels DIY but in the best way possible. Like someone locked themselves in their room with a laptop, some old VHS tapes, and a mission to make something unforgettable. Spoiler alert: they did.
Now, let me talk tracks because not every song on here lands perfectly, but when they do, oh man, they stick. Take “Hero,” for example. This track is straight fire. It starts off slow, almost hesitant, like it’s unsure if it wants to exist at all. But then BAM—it explodes into this lush, retro soundscape that feels like running through a neon-lit arcade at 3 AM. The beat is hypnotic, pulling you deeper and deeper until you forget where you are. I swear, every time I hear it, I get goosebumps. It’s not perfect, though; sometimes it stumbles over itself, but that’s part of its charm. It’s messy, sure, but so are we.
Then there’s “Hope.” Man, this one gutted me. Out of nowhere, it drops these soft, melancholic notes that feel like staring out a rain-soaked window while thinking about everything you’ve ever lost. And yet… it’s hopeful? Like, despite all the sadness, there’s this tiny flicker of light trying to break through. I can’t explain why, but this track always makes me pause whatever I’m doing. It’s short, barely two minutes long, but damn, it lingers.
Other songs like “Preparation” and “Sasha Grey” keep the vibe going strong, blending glitchy textures with haunting melodies. Even “オーガズム420” throws you for a loop—it’s chaotic as hell, but somehow still works within the context of the album. It’s like Loser20 took risks without caring what anyone thought, and honestly? That’s refreshing.
So yeah, Virtual World might not be everyone’s cup of tea. If you’re looking for polished production or radio-friendly hits, this ain’t it. But if you want something that feels alive—if you want music that challenges you instead of spoon-feeding you emotions—then give this a shot.
Here’s the kicker, though: listening to this album feels less like hearing music and more like exploring someone’s brain. Like peeking behind the curtain of a world that exists only in fragments. And honestly? That’s pretty dope. Who knew losing yourself in a virtual world could feel so real?
