This review covers the trance track Olive – You’re Not Alone (Matthew Roberts’ Cloud 10 Mix).
This track was released in 1997 as part of a single.
The track starts off with a drum kit. After a clap, the kick comes in more. A synth effect is added. An effect is added followed by a few more effects. This includes an element that is bitcrushed.
A synth then comes in along with some additional effects. The track then drops down with another bitcrushed element. The drum kit is also pulled out. After some synth elements, the drum it is gradually brought in. Everything then gets pulled back except the drum kit. From there, a bassline comes in.
At this point, the vocals come in for a verse. Some added synth effects are added to back them. From there, the vocals take the track into the main chorus. Backup vocals also come into the track for the first time. A synth effect comes in and everything gets pulled back save for a bassline and synth.
From there, the vocals return along with the drum kit. A subtle melody plays out in the background. Synth elements also join the track to back the vocals going through another verse. After this, the vocals take the track into the next round in the main chorus. The drum kit then pulls back as the vocals take the track through the main chorus again.
The drum kit then comes back as the vocals continue playing through the main chorus. Some backup vocals then make an appearance to vary the main chorus. The vocals then wind things up with an added line. After a brief drop, the drum kit returns. Some effects join the track. A synth effect then leads the track out.
A major highlight in this track is definitely the vocals. They work so well to give this tack a very soothing a smooth sound. Ultimately, they prove to be the highlight of the track.
The synth melodies, both prominent and subtle, all work to give this track some interesting dynamic sounds. Some of the synth effects might be dated and overused by today’s standards, but given when this track was released, I’m more than happy to let them slide.
The only thing I will say about this track is that there are some elements that seem like they were left on autopilot. A little more variety, such as the drum kit, might have gone a long way in reducing that stale undertone throughout the track.
Still, this is a pretty solid track in my view. It has great vocals and some good synth melodies and effects. Some elements do come off a bit repetitive, but I still call this an overall solid track.
Score
7/10
Drew Wilson on Twitter: @icecube85 and Facebook.
