Today, right in the middle of a workday, I unexpectedly stumbled upon “Iswoon” by The Numb Project, and it was a pleasant gift, as the November mood is quite mediocre. I felt an almost physical urge to share this discovery, because this composition is the perfect sonic elixir against the grayness.
Right at the start, you are greeted by a sunny electric piano. Yes, the sound is slightly muffled, and I would have given it more air, a slightly wider spectrum. The synth, enveloped by the bass, creates a carpet for what is to come next.
And then come the rhythmic beats, and everything merges into a light, reggae-like accent, slightly synthesized, playful—like a familiar taste with a new seasoning. At about the 1:30 mark, the real magic happens. The Numb Project either lifts the notes or cranks up the synthesizer knobs, and the familiar timbre becomes more resonant and tropical (perhaps that’s why the synth was more muted at the beginning).
The sound transitions to something akin to metallic drums, and “Iswoon” changes its character, transforming into pure, carefree tropical house. And this is a wonderful combination that simply wins you over with its lightness.
There is nothing superfluous in this track, but the atmosphere it creates is simultaneously everything I need. It’s a momentary ticket to a vacation, to a world where there are no deadlines, just rhythm and sun. The composition is worth living through.
P.S. If you enjoy tracks that create a feeling of travel and shift in mood, like this one, be sure to check out our previous review of Hydrologic – Mountain Birch, where music also transforms into a true sonic landscape.
