Dear listeners and readers of Soundville,
As is known, good cinema must make the viewer forget that they are sitting at home or in a cinema. And it is also capable of becoming literally a source of inspiration, giving strength and ideas for creating other masterpieces in any field. This is what happened with Esso when creating the sophomore album ‘Just Like In The Movies’, whose sound draws inspiration from the golden era of late-’90s and early-2000s rock. As the artist himself explains (and simultaneously the author of all tracks on this album): this is a love letter to all cinema. Each individual track conveys the atmosphere or idea of a specific film. Therefore in the album one can hear both moralistic stories, and glorification of a beautiful and fateful woman, who can be an ally or worthy adversary depending on the situation, and memories of many romantic places that found their reflection in cinema. But besides the cinema theme, Esso included one more direction: perseverance to break out of the seemingly habitual domestic apathy and the desire to somehow change one’s life, bringing new colors into it.

In ‘Just Like In The Movies’ there are 10 tracks and all of them form an incredible concept and story. And I would like to highlight for you the brightest tracks in the release. ‘Break Me’ opens the album. This track is like a hurricane – fast, dynamic and literally demolishing all limitations from the first seconds after turning on. The fast rhythm is maintained throughout the entire track, without slowdowns or special pauses. ‘Break Me’ fully reflects Esso’s desire to literally break out of the subtle but strong captivity of domestic apathy and begin to actively live and create. One can even physically feel how the melody mentally breaks certain patterns, and makes you move, do something and cast aside sleepy peace. An interesting track, perfectly suited for the cold time of year, when it is very difficult to find within oneself the strength to move forward in any work.

Then ‘I’m Your Density’ in which the melody somewhat “steps aside”, yielding first place to Esso’s powerful vocals. The vocals are permeated with such power and energy that they immediately attract attention and do not allow distraction to anything else until the track ends. It compels not just to listen, but immediately to think what can be done to change life. And the fast rhythm pushes aside all doubts and fears, giving ideas to acquire that form and scope when only one thing remains – simply to stand up and do, paying no attention to anything. This track is interesting for two reasons at once. The first – the track is dedicated to the old American film ‘Back to the Future” (1985), and reflects that curiosity, energy and aspiration of the main character to change the world for the better, even with risk to himself personally. The second reason is more interesting – this track smoothly supports that thought and aspiration, laid in the first track. Consequently, one can consider that “I’m Your Density” is dedicated not only to the film, but also automatically continues the unspoken struggle with apathy and unwillingness to change something in one’s life.

I would like to highlight the song ‘Go On’. It is also dynamic and swift. But here there is a small peculiarity – in contrast to the first two tracks, in ‘Go On’ a peculiar slowing down is felt. That is precisely why this track is good for cooling down a bit from the strong impact of the first two, and simply thinking what to do next. A huge plus is that Esso although slightly reduced the power here, but not so much as to lose the main thread. Therefore even with the slowing down, the track is full of power and energy, compelling not only to think, but also gradually to embody plans in life.

And here is ‘Kiss of Death’ is the complete opposite to the first tracks. Here the melody and vocals intertwine into one whole, and literally from the first seconds challenge the surrounding space. According to Esso this track is dedicated to those fateful women in cinema, who can become both allies and serious adversaries. Therefore in the melody of the track one can clearly hear simultaneously temptation and warning, open danger with challenge and passionate promise. Esso’s vocals here carefully weave all these different emotions into one beautiful pattern, evoking envy in those women to whom the track is dedicated, and in those men. My admiration to Esso for creating such a musical miracle!

And I cannot not highlight ‘Can’t Believe’, concluding the album. Here a big surprise is hidden. In contrast to the first tracks, full of energy and dynamics, this one combines tenderness, smoothness and power. An interesting combination in itself. Gentle and light vocals of Esso create an illusion of lightness, freedom and sincerity. It is felt that this track is a peculiar confession to a very dear person, as here Esso fully opened his heart and soul. The vocals do not press and do not command, but simply narrate and carefully lead along. And at the same time does not give even a chance to switch attention to something else, more bright or dynamic. Especially interesting when the tenderness and smoothness of the vocals are sharply replaced by unexpected power of guitar parts. Such a sharp transition as if emphasizes the seriousness of intentions and words that were before this moment voiced.

Wow, this was stunning! The new album “Just Like In The Movies” from Esso is a small miracle! The artist and simultaneously the author of all tracks fully revealed his two ideas: love for cinema and the desire to break out of domestic apathy. Each track is a peculiar motivation for listeners to move forward despite numerous problems and doubts in one’s own abilities. Especially worth highlighting are the tracks dedicated to films: they fully reveal the main characters who serve as a source of inspiration, and their intentions. Definitely add favorite tracks to your playlists and subscribe to the musician, so that you always have wonderful and bright music.

Hey Esso! Thank you for releasing such interesting and bright music. When I listened to your album, I experienced incredible joy and interest. Each track possesses a memorable and very cool atmosphere. I really as if watched a film! Very cinematic. I will definitely show your release to everyone, let them also listen to such bright music. I love it and I am your fan! Yeaaa

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With much love,
Soundville