After two forerunners Out in the Open Episode 3 is the final act and A-Lusion is dropping a huge album, which deserves your attention!
I see it coming. You will hate me for being such an A-Lusion fanboy. Normally, I would review this title by title, naming you the best and worst tracks. This album however is different, because all 19 tracks harmonize so well. Out in the Open EP3 is a pure artist album and gives you an 80 minutes long experience, which you should enjoy more than once.
His preview trailer promised us a big variety of styles and that is exactly what makes this album so special. Get everything what you love from euphoric hardstyle: hard punchy kicks, atmospheric vocals, high pitched leads and great melodies. Incredibly, but A-Lusion does this while keeping his unique style throughout the album.
Nearly every track shines with great, dedicated vocals and bright, open leads. “As High As” is just one track, where I just can’t wait until the line “Hands are as high as the sky!” kicks in. More examples are “Untouchable” and “All These Symbols”.
One of my favorite tracks is “Auditory Phenomena”. It was one of the first tracks that I heard of the album and I love it since then! First of all the reverse bass is just huge. Second the intro melody adds an extra bit of dynamic to the track.
But the best part is that buzz sound effect, that you should enjoy in stereo because it goes from left to right and circles around your head…and then “it multiplies!”.
The last three tracks are, I would not say raw, but rougher. Especially there you can hear the overwhelming sound design by A-Lusion. He uses countless sound layers, but still provides us with a clear rhythmic beat.
Ok, “Sloopwerk” is maybe a bit raw with its screeches and minimalistic main melody. But you will enjoy it, since it’s a great ending for his album.
So what is this album? It’s A-Lusion in his best form and a big improvement since his last Out in the Open. If you like rhythmic, dynamic, euphoric, fast paced and creative tracks with great vocals – this should be your first choice. For me, one of the Top 3 euphoric albums this year and I hope to hear more from A-Lusion at this level!