Qualia - Tryptych EP (Self-Released)

Seattle’s Qualia, essentially the solo project of musician Michael Hazani, has returned with their newest released, Tryptych. A follow up to the band’s debut from 2014, This Is The Color of My Dreams, the new EP is more of the same, uncompromisingly succinct vision. As hinted at in the title, Tryptych, is a collection of three songs unified in style, size, and power. Hazani’s sound is as modern as it is nostalgic, like a reexamination of 80’s synth power ballads. The sound and hooks are positively massive, as if meant to be heard only in the setting of a stadium.

With booming chants and extravagant vocals, there is a strong theatrical quality to these songs. This effect is achieved better than anywhere else on the opener, “Presque Vu.” The song begins with a little teaser of chiptune before exploding into a grandiose anthem. “Guillotine” begins and builds more slowly, but it’s a crescendo that’s gradual and by the end, the band feels like a full orchestra and choir. The final song, “Tell Me A Story” is the closest to art rock here, but it remains as equally catchy as its predecessors. Tryptych is out September 15th.