John Foxx, the pioneering figure in the synthpop and new wave genres, returns with "The Arcades Project," a captivating exploration of ambient and cold wave sounds. Released on March 31, 2023, via Metamatic Records, this album marks a significant milestone as John Foxx's first solo piano album. Spanning 45 minutes, the 12-track collection showcases Foxx's evolution, blending his signature electronic textures with the intimate and clinical beauty of the piano.
"The Arcades Project" is a testament to Foxx's artistry, offering a fresh sense of wonder and timeless beauty. The album opens with "A Formal Arrangement," setting the tone for a journey through tracks like "Floral Arithmetic" and "Daylight Ghost," each piece a delicate interplay of light and shadow. The title track, "The Arcades Project," along with "Starlit Summer Night" and "Coincidentalism," highlights Foxx's ability to evoke vivid imagery and atmosphere, making it a standout piece in his discography.
The album's production is clinical and perfect in its execution, bringing to mind the shimmering sunlight filtering through glass. Tracks like "In All Your Glory" and "Forgotten In Manhattan" showcase Foxx's knack for creating moments of introspection and reflection. The album concludes with "This Evening," leaving the listener with a sense of tranquility and contemplation.
"The Arcades Project" is not just an album; it's a return to the piano for John Foxx, a return that feels both fresh and familiar. Whether you're a long-time fan or a newcomer to his work, this album offers a unique and engaging listening experience.