The Ghost in the Machine
This Is Gap Dream is an electronic mixture with a hippie space sound reminiscent of classic rock and ‘60s psychedelic funk, which gives a nostalgic feeling to the album. Gabe Fulvimar, singer, song writer, and only regular member of Gap Dream, keeps up a shaggy ‘70s persona that is relative to the music he produces. The style of the band is easily comparable to the sound of Velvet Underground and The Who.
The band possesses a very laid-back charisma. The mood of This Is Gap Dream is set with signature synthesizers and robotic barks in simple song concepts like “Greater Find.” Although appearing to be simple, the lyrics on various songs have deep meanings. For example, “24 Hour Token” recites the serenity prayer often said in Alcoholics or Narcotics Anonymous. Here, Fulvimar admits that he is his own worst enemy. The lyrics are extremely serious for what sounds like a happy song. On a brighter note, in the song he expresses hopefulness and gratitude for another day. The following track “Party Foul” also speaks to drug use. Fulvimar sings “I don’t want to use drugs,” which plays into a theme of self-reflection amongst the two tracks.
“College Music” shows Fulvimar’s frustration with people, calling them “machines,” brainwashed and with “no relation to the world.” The lyrics paint a pretty clear message but the melody is misleading. The song itself sounds happy and playful, which can distract from the lyrics.
The tracks without lyrics are the most inciting, like “Judy Let Me Roam.” It’s calming and sexy. Yet the track with lyrics, “Shy Boy,” is the most beautiful. The combination of the piano, cymbals and space robot sounds are unconventionally pleasing. Of course, it speaks to a relationship between a boy and girl in which the boy sounds frustrated with the girl about her constant questioning. She then blames his lack of response on his shyness. It is easy to become frustrated with the album as it contains so many different topics. All in all, however, it could be called a modern Classic Rock album. It will certainly tickle someone’s fancy.
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