Album Review: Closed Caption Radio by Monkey Machine
If you’re into Psy-Trance and haven’t heard Closed Caption Radio by Monkey Machine, you’re kinda missing out. Released in 2011 under Altar Records (Canada), this album is a wild ride through trippy beats and mind-melting soundscapes. It’s got that classic electronic vibe but with its own twist—like someone took your brain, shook it up, and handed it back to you with a smile.
The album kicks off with some killer tracks, but two stood out to me: “Safari Sunrise” and “Indian Summer.” Let me tell ya why they stuck.
“Safari Sunrise” feels like the soundtrack to an adventure you didn’t know you were on. The beat builds slowly, teasing you with these lush tribal tones, then BAM—it drops into this hypnotic groove that just doesn’t quit. You can almost picture yourself running barefoot through a savanna at dawn (or maybe that's just me after too much coffee). Either way, it’s one of those tracks that grabs hold of you and won’t let go.
Then there’s “Indian Summer,” which hits different. This one’s more laid-back compared to the rest of the album, but don’t mistake chill for boring. It layers warm melodies over pulsing basslines, creating this dreamy vibe that feels like watching the sunset from a hilltop. Honestly, I could listen to this track on repeat for hours without getting tired of it. Something about the way it flows makes you wanna close your eyes and drift away.
Props to Ryan Hanna, who wrote and produced the whole thing—he clearly knows his stuff. And big shoutout to DJ Zen for mastering; dude crushed it. Oh, and let’s not forget Monkey Machine himself for handling the artwork. It fits the vibe perfectly, like someone splashed paint across a canvas while listening to the album on full blast.
What’s cool about Closed Caption Radio is how it balances being intense and relaxing at the same time. It’s not trying too hard to impress anyone—it just does what it does really well. Whether you're throwing a party or zoning out alone, this album has something for every mood.
Here’s the random thought I’ll leave you with: Psy-Trance always reminds me of lava lamps. Like, if music could be liquid, this would totally be neon goo sloshing around in a glass tube. Weird analogy? Maybe. But hey, isn’t that what good music’s all about—making you think weird thoughts?
So yeah, give Closed Caption Radio a spin. Trust me, your ears will thank you later.
