Real Mirage - The Closest We'll Ever Be

Real Mirage

The Closest We'll Ever Be
self-released; 2021

3.9 out of 5

By Jay Freeman

Real Mirage is a one-man band based in Chisinau in the Republic of Moldova. The band currently has two EPs out and is in the recording stage of an upcoming album. This one-man band’s first single "Maybe I Could" got on an editorial Spotify playlist, which helped to gain a bit more traction for the band. On this second EP, The Closest We’ll Ever Come, the band changed styles in terms of soundscape, proving more favorable for the band. The EP was recorded, mixed and mastered in the artist’s bedroom, using built-in, free VSTs and plugins. With the current situation that our world is facing, Real Mirage wanted to give people a “mirror” in which they’ll look at and reflect on matters that are of a big significance. The writing on the EP has the intention of “giving the freedom of perception for the listener.” The artist states that the recording’s message is up to you. Sonically, the EP is more rock and alternative, giving listeners a preview of what the upcoming album will sound like. 
 
The opener is the EP’s titled track, and it starts off with soft guitar sounds and gentle synth sounds that may drift you off to sleep. But I don’t mean that this tune is boring – not at all – it has a nice, mellow, ambient style that was very enjoyable to listen to. Next up offers something a bit more futuristic and dreamier with the sensibilities of new wave of the ‘80s. “Maybe I Could” features a deep bass groove, chilling keyboard melodies and drowning guitar riffs. Lyrically, Real Mirage writes about crushing hard for someone else and/or being infatuated with that other someone. “Violent Crush” goes deeper into the realm of goth and dark ambient. In my opinion, this song taps into the classic sounds of The Cure and Bauhaus – I mean, it’s right up there – and it sounds fantastic! The best lyric reflects the song’s dark style “We get used to the crush that left us to decay.” 
 
“Bridges” opens with a haunting guitar and keys, offering plenty of minor dark chords. Just when I thought Real Mirage couldn’t get any darker, I mean dang, this song was heavy. Not real sure what it’s lyrically about, although the line “Of the most recent year” may be a clue into the period during 2020 where everyone was isolated and trying hard not to get Covid. Last up is “Somewhere to Go” – this one features a richer, more theatrical sound. Keys sounding like a haunting symphony, while the drums give this number a structured rhythm.  The lyrics are spooky, as it closes this short and foreboding collection of richly atmospheric and poetic numbers.

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