X: The Human Masterpiece

X: The Human Condition is an audio/visual sensory delight from filmmaker/songwriter Michael Nova. The premise of Nova’s creation is two complete strangers going through life sharing exactly the same experiences, but completely unaware of each other, each feeling alienated from the world around them without realizing that there is someone who feels the same.

Nova is inspired in his composition, mixing otherworldly vocals with beats that could have been composed by any of hip-hop’s biggest producers. This album is not restricted by genre as most are: It coasts over everything it can, particularly the trip hop style of Portishead and Trent Reznor’s dark, story-like works with a gentle touch and a sense of complete understanding.

Avant-garde would be an understatement if referring to this album. It is emotionally raw and controlled without appearing contrived. Here is a release that transcends any and all conventions that should restrict it, instead embracing everything while contradicting long-standing rules.

The album is without a doubt one of the most experimental and groundbreaking records of the decade. Concept albums have been something of a rarity since the demise of prog rock in the ‘70s; the few released have received dirty looks and sniggers from their peers and reviewers. But X: The Human Condition may well be the release that reignites the public’s belief in the concept album.