Exciting Valence from Germany have been on my music radar, since they released the album "Desire" back in 2014, an album that really impressed me, with it's warm tones and uplifting songs. The man behind the project is David Ehrke who has continued to release music as Exciting Valence on a regular basis, from the debut album "Light And Shadow" in 2012 and the new album called "Retro City", which has just been released.
The new album begins with the title track and has a punchy lead line to open the song, which makes way to a warm sound and David's soothing vocal, strong drum elements and sequencer parts, a fabulous opening track, with an instant likeable chorus.
"Not Another Lonely Light" has a delightful melodic stab synth pattern at the start before it erupts into melodic synth parts, again brilliant use of sequencer patterns, this song also packs a punch and has a strong structure, excellent once again.
Lovely choir sounds in the intro of "Human Face", some nice vocoder on some of the vocals, nice melody parts once again throughout, I really like the chorus, it's powerful and draws you into the track, such a positive vibe to the album so far, warm and inviting.
"Funky Town" is very "Italo Disco", great bassline that drives the song, darker sound elements to this track and the sequencer lines are superb, another upbeat gem.
What a stunning sequencer line in the opening of "Traveller" and it's use throughout the track, I like the percussion elements and rhythm parts, they work really well with the soundscape. This is an instrumental track, however, it is still infectious.
"Futureworld" has a big intro and develops really well, I like the voice sample he uses and the dual vocal is excellent, this is a more reflective song, the synth backdrop is impressive with lots going on. Another track that excels in all departments.
"Dance And Smile" is very Euro Pop mixed with Italo Disco, especially the bassline regards the latter. The melody lines are striking and I love the synth stabs and the sequencers are on top form.
Next is the track "Just A Moment", which is full on synthpop with strong synth leads, the way it builds into the chorus is really good, catchy!
"Runner 84" definitely has an 80s synthwave vibe and has good voice sample parts, think "Blade Runner" soundtrack
Too close the album we have "Call Me Tonight Reloaded", another track that has a heavy italo disco feel, a punchy beat and driving bassline and once again strong sequencer lines and melodies, a fine ending to this album.
David has a unique sound which works extremely well and this set of songs all add up to what is probably his finest album, definitely on a par with "Desire". Strong songs with Punchy beats, melodies galore and dreamlike vocals, which make this album such a pleasure to listen too and review.
Highly recommended 9/10
The album is available directly from the Exciting Homepage
hereCheckout the official homepage of Exciting Valence here
