ASTARI NITE – “Resolution of Happiness”

Flamboyant ode to life
ASTARI NITE
“Resolution of Happiness”
Album (Danse Macabre)

“Resolution of Happiness”, Astari Nite‘s fifth studio album, has an aesthetic, artistically valuable, driving and heart-warming effect on the listener. Supposed genre boundaries flow into one another as if by magic. A cozy nineties alternative vibe meets sophisticated glam rock to unite with dark wave and synth rock. A certain David Bowie spirit seems to hover over the songs, as do the influences of Placebo and co. And yet Astari Nite have found their own way to sound completely individual. Self-confident, straightforward and passionate, they charmingly play their way into the hearts of their fans. Mychael has also mastered the gallant game of lyricism perfectly. He cleverly encourages his listeners to ponder with a mischievous smile.

The good old days

In classic dark wave style, “Double Feature Matinee” introduces the new work. Mychael provides insights into anecdotes that accompany him in his everyday life. A heavenly guitar part already makes you melt away. Inwardly, colorful images of encounters emerge and memories of the video game “Space Invaders” sprout up, which conquered teenage bedrooms in the 1980s alongside “Pacman”. While the verses of “Necessity Meal” score with an impressive nonchalance, the chorus takes on a spherical quality. The line “Thank you, thank you for the guilt” seems to embrace you and take you in without fail. The social striving for absolute perfection is courageously denounced. This leads to inner coldness and apathy, causing familiar connections and inner warmth to fall by the wayside.

Side effects

“Tongue Tied Galore” comes along in shoegaze style. Fast-paced and menacing, the track builds up over time and also increases the beat of your own heartbeat. Emotional lyrics reflect the bitter moments of a false friendship. The statement “Do what you want to, don’t change the volume” will probably establish itself as a defining slogan. Watch out – this sophisticated song is a persistent catchy tune that will lurk in unexpected moments for days to come.

Is there anybody out there?

The works of David Bowie have always had an inspiring effect on Astari Nite. Now it was time to dedicate a song to the exceptional artist: “Bowie in Daydreams”. At the same time, Mychael sends a silent greeting to his brother, whom he lost while working on this album. This piece seems to hover between the worlds. Can it even connect them for a few moments? With an irrepressible sadness in the voice, this unspeakably strong piece is both depressing and hopeful at the same time.

Childish worries

Strong synth lines ensnare “The Inevitable Crocodile”. Mychael processes eerie memories from his childhood here. After all, who doesn’t know the monster under their bed that can spark the most bizarre fantasies? “Ashtray Ballet” takes you straight back to the nineties. Enchanting synths meet the sparkling sound of industrial guitars. All the love that was invested in this piece is clearly noticeable. With a heartbreaking melancholy in his voice, Mychael takes a step back and gives his bandmates room to shine alongside him.

Rose-colored glasses

With its heavy glam rock guitars, “Cut Here for Dialogues” is like a dazzling disco track from the past. It serves as a farewell to a former muse who caused a rollercoaster ride of emotions, but also left a clattering pile of shards inside due to a lack of love. “What a Rainbow Feels Like” is characterized by pithy synth rock and underpins the longing, artfully created lyrics. “Send my lover down a river of gold. I’ll be waiting in the chataeu of hope.” Inspired by Mazzy Star ‘s “Fade into You”, Astari Nite created their own resonating mid-tempo number with “All Else Is a Curse”. “We Are Still Siamese” is dark and carrying. With its menacing seriousness, it pulls you down into the depths. The final sounds are created by an unpowered electric guitar. Resolution of Happiness” ends very quietly.

Conclusion:

To get the endorphins flowing again, it’s essential to press repeat again! Astari Nite ‘s new work becomes more captivating with every listen. Despite the heavy moments, it has an exhilarating effect on the listener. Whether you’re going through a gloomy, challenging time or walking happily through life – this album seems to understand you and take you by the hand. Above all, you never want to be without it again!

Nadine Kloppert

Recorded in: Eerie Gardens & Arcade Studios (Miami)
Produced by: The Snow Bros
Mastered by: Undogmatic

We conducted an extensive interview with Astari Nite. Click on the picture to read the first part before the second follows shortly:

Enjoy the album on Spotify: