As we draw the curtains on this year, we're immersed in an array of enthralling collaborations. This time, the spotlight shines on the EP “I Left My Heart in Ladera,” which was released by the American artists Martin Terrace and Alex Isley. These two artists have a long and interesting collaboration history but this release also benefits from the support of the multi-award-winning producer, composer, and arranger Robert Klasper.

The EP paints a vivid and unique universe, with each track offering a different flavor that oozes creativity, melancholy, and a perfect blend of drama and chill.

Among the myriad flavors, "La Brea and Stocker" stands out as a personal favorite. It feels like a vast expanse, a space without boundaries—no floor, no walls, just the horizon. Within this boundless realm, intricate ladders crafted from piano notes emerge. They're beautiful yet peculiar, intricate and unorthodox, yet oddly inviting to traverse. As we walk these musical ladders, we encounter a captivating angelic voice resonating through this vast void. How does her voice reverberate so profoundly in this expansive emptiness? Perhaps it bounces off the unconventional piano structures surrounding her. Meanwhile, a mysterious saxophonist plays in the distance, concealed within a dense haze. The piano ladders gradually morph into a haze of arpeggios and accented chromaticisms.

This imagery persists in the other songs but with nuanced emotions and subtle variations. In “Only in the Moment,” Alex Isley's enchanting voice harmonizes with a simple synthesizer accompaniment. At first glance, the instrument produces sustained, elongated lines. Yet, keen ears will discern interruptions amid these lines—a deliberate pause that, when combined with the blurred reverb and the synth's subtle low-attack, fosters an enigmatic sensation. It leaves us wondering what lies ahead.
As the verse progresses, the accompaniment retains its melody while introducing additional synths with complementary timbres, intensifying the experience. With each iteration of this verse, new layers are added, heightening the drama. Alex's vocal inflections gain severity and weight. That subtle and mystique accompaniment we had at the beginning will become unavoidable mountains that will flood our ears and our souls of drama.
Suddenly all of that built-up experience halts, giving way to a splendid synth solo that embodies the initial philosophy: simple yet sustained lines. However, this time, the mystique and drama are conveyed through meticulously crafted portamentos.

I'd avoid delving too deeply into reviewing each song to avoid spoiling it for you. Hopefully, this gives you a glimpse of how creative, lovely, and beautiful the album truly is. I encourage you to check it out! I'm hopeful that this duo continues collaborating in the future; their work is truly exceptional.

Author: Martín Cacho

Martín is a video game composer, producer and writer from Sonora, México.