This review covers the progressive trance track Alice Deejay – Better Off Alone (Radio Edit).
This track was released in 1998 as part of a single.
The track starts with an effect before a synth and kick comes in. The bassline also accompanies this section. From there, the synth fills out for more of the main melody. A snare roll comes in. THe track then drops out as the synths largely take over including a choir element and some synth strings.
When the pads, choir, and strings drop out, the main synth largely takes over along with an automated synth. A snare roll comes in before some synth effects come in. From there, the vocals come in along with the choir elements. A secondary synth melody comes in.
After some synth effects, the secondary synth takes over along with the pads. Those elements drop out as the vocals make a return. The track drops out further with only one of the synths backing the vocals. When the vocals drop out, the track builds back up with a snare roll. The main synth melody returns along with the drum kit. The vocals then return again. Some synth effects come in before some of the choir elements come back in.
Some elements drop out again as the vocals change things up. A snare roll comes in and the vocals lead the track out.
One thing I like about this track is that the vocals almost seem like a sample because it is so short. However, the vocals expand part way through, so it makes the vocals seem more alive with a lack of a better term to describe it.
The synth melodies throughout the track are very distinct. In fact, combined with the vocals, this is probably one of the most recognizable tracks around in the late 90’s and early 2000’s.
The synth effects, and choir pads layered with the synth strings really gives this track some depth.
Overall, I have no problem calling this a great track. It has great vocals and a nice melody. If you were around in the early 2000’s, there is a very good possibility you’ll have heard this track before. I’d go further and say this track really holds up well to today’s music as well. So, a great track all around.
Score
8/10
Drew Wilson on Twitter: @icecube85 and Facebook.
