As his fifth official album release, M83’s Hurry Up, We’re Dreaming balances old and new in a way that many fail to do after more than a decade of output. From the frenetic synth washed skylines of Before the Dawn Heals Us to the lighter, pop-infused Saturdays = Youth, Gonzales has defined a range of work with enough diversity and convention to keep fans and critics engaged without alienating them. Hurry Up, We’re Dreaming undoubtedly expands this effect as it adds both breadth and depth to Gonzales’ tenure as a musician and producer. It’s also a refreshing demonstration of a veteran’s ability to incorporate contemporary influences into his core base of influence. In doing this M83 stays fresh through self reference and reinterpretation. Tracks like “Intro (ft. Zola Jesus)” and “Reunion” showcase a different vocal display than Gonzales’ norm, while the variety of rhythmic and instrumental textural variation from track to track demonstrates that he has been keeping a pulse on the swarms of parallel genres currently flourishing around him.  It’s also great to hear the use of some flavors seldom found in previous M83 productions (flute and slap bass for example). Yet, through every moment of the album you understand that you are still completely immersed in the big cinematic soundscaping, stellar production, and epic ebb and flow of a trademark M83 release.

One of the greatest indicators of success for a musician wishing to extend the timetables of their flair is the ability to tastefully introduce new elements without flipping a working formula on its head. It is a delicate task, one that is achieved organically through years of refinement and honest approach. It is nearly impossible to achieve through robust calculation and serves more as a symptom of creative achievement than a strategy for it. If Gonzales hasn’t reached this point yet, he is getting very, very close.

You can stream the album here and order it there.

M83 – Midnight City