When it comes to the music industry, the airwaves are dominated by vocal-driven hits almost exclusively. The rise of EDM has tried to change popular music into an instrumental-first genre, but the popular option will always include lyrics — what else are teens supposed to tweet out as vague indicators of their current mental state? For ambitious instrumental fans looking for something a little different, Jake Allen and Jennifer Mann’s collaborative effort, “Refractions Volume I,” stands as a beacon of instrumental artistry. This immersive audio/visual project offers a rare glimpse into a world where sound and color intertwine to create something truly extraordinary. With its limited availability exclusively on Jake Allen’s website, each copy is a coveted treasure, offering fans the chance to own a piece of musical history.
Instrumental albums are a rarity in today’s music landscape, yet “Refractions Volume I” emerges as a refreshing anomaly. Much like Sufjan Stevens’ “Aporia” and his ambitious “Convocations” project, which spanned five volumes, Allen’s work defies categorization, pushing the boundaries of what instrumental music can achieve. While “Aporia” ventured into the realms of ambient and electronic soundscapes, and “Convocations” delved into themes of grief and mourning, “Refractions Volume I” carves its own path, blending elements of jazz, alt-rock, and prog-rock music to create a sonic world that is uniquely its own.
With its intricate compositions and evocative paintings by Mann, “Refractions” transports listeners to a realm where words are unnecessary, allowing the music to speak for itself. From the ethereal melodies of “Diamond” to the fiery crescendos of “Carnelian,” each track tells its own story, inviting listeners on a journey of exploration and discovery. Mann’s paintings serve as the perfect complement to Allen’s compositions, adding an extra layer of depth and emotion to the music. With their vibrant colors and abstract forms, the paintings bring each track to life in vivid detail, allowing listeners to immerse themselves fully in the sonic landscape.
What sets “Refractions Volume I” apart is its potential for growth and evolution. Much like Stevens’ expansive projects, Allen’s work has the ability to continue shapeshifting across multiple volumes, each one offering new depths of exploration and discovery. As the album progresses, it becomes clear that there is much more to be uncovered, with hints of future themes and motifs waiting to be explored. From the delicate introspection of “Aquamarine” to the bombastic energy of “Obsidian,” “Refractions Volume I” is a testament to Allen’s boundless creativity and vision.
The option for autographed editions adds an extra touch of exclusivity, making each copy a unique and cherished keepsake for fans. While “Refractions Volume I” may be just the beginning, it is clear that Allen and Mann are onto something truly special. With its innovative approach to storytelling and its bold experimentation with sound and color, the album signals a new chapter in instrumental music—one filled with endless possibilities and untapped potential.
“Refractions Volume I” is a one-of-a-kind musical tapestry that defies expectations and invites listeners on a journey of exploration and discovery. With its limited availability and the promise of future volumes to come, it is clear that Jake Allen is just getting started. So, dive in, and prepare to be swept away by the sonic wonders that await.
Chadwick Easton