Bloomfield Machine, the brainchild of multi-instrumentalist composer Brian Kassan, returns to our soundscape with “Suiteness,” an instrumental album that delves into the complex interplay of hope and darkness. Brian, whose extensive resume includes work with Wondermints, Chewy Marble, The Tikiyaki Orchestra, and session gigs with various Los Angeles artists, continues to push the boundaries of instrumental music. His previous album, “Left To Our Own Devices,” left listeners in a state of introspection, and now, “Suiteness” invites us to explore a new realm—one that is both familiar and intriguingly different.
Brian Kassan, through his Bloomfield Machine project, creates music that is not just heard but experienced. He has a remarkable ability to translate the deepest recesses of his subconscious into sound, allowing listeners to forge their own emotional and visual landscapes. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or a newcomer, this album is a testament to his mastery in crafting immersive auditory journeys.
“Euphoric Recall” opens the album with a sense of wistful nostalgia. The track is a delicate balance between melancholic melodies and underlying optimism. The production here is lush, with layered synths and gentle percussion that create a dreamlike atmosphere. It’s as if Brian is reminiscing about a time when happiness was within reach, yet just out of grasp.
“On a Bender” shifts the mood with a more frenetic energy. The bassline drives the composition, supported by a syncopated rhythm that gives the feeling of a chaotic night out. Brian’s use of distorted guitar riffs adds a gritty texture, embodying the reckless abandon that the title suggests. It’s a sonic portrayal of indulgence and the inevitable aftermath.
As the title implies, “Something Shifted” marks a turning point in the album. The instrumentation is sparse, with a focus on dissonant chords and fragmented melodies. There’s an unsettling quality to the music as if something familiar has suddenly become strange. This track serves as a reminder that change is often uncomfortable but necessary.
Bloomfield Machine delivers a hauntingly beautiful piece with “The Normal Amount of Pain.” This track is built around a haunting piano motif, with subtle electronic elements weaving in and out. The production is intentionally minimal, allowing the piece’s raw emotion to shine through. It’s a poignant reflection on the inevitability of pain in life.
A contemplative track, “What is Left” feels like the calm after a storm. The use of ambient soundscapes and gentle guitar strumming creates a sense of introspection. Brian’s ability to convey complex emotions through simple melodies is on full display here. It’s a moment of quiet reflection amidst the chaos.
With “Upload Yourself,” Brian introduces a futuristic vibe, with glitchy electronics and pulsating beats. It’s as if he is exploring the idea of merging the human experience with technology. The production is dense, with layers of sound that build and collapse in a controlled cacophony. It’s a bold experiment that challenges us to think beyond the present.
Returning to a more organic sound, “Cosmic Debris” features swirling synths and reverb-drenched guitars that evoke the vastness of space. This music feels weightless, drifting aimlessly through the cosmos. It’s a sonic representation of existential musings, where we are left to ponder our place in the universe.
Introducing a sense of disorientation with its irregular time signatures and asymmetrical melodies, “Symmetry Mistake” plays with our expectations, challenging us to find balance in the imbalance. The production on this track is meticulous, with every off-kilter note and unexpected pause contributing to the track’s unique character.
As the title suggests, “A Series of Accidents” hints at the unpredictability of life and the music reflects this with its erratic tempo changes and disjointed rhythms. The production is intentionally rough around the edges, giving the track an almost improvisational feel. It’s a chaotic yet compelling piece that captures the randomness of existence.
Bringing a darker moon to the album, “Doomloop” plunges us into a dark, repetitive cycle, as the name suggests. The track’s heavy bass and droning synths create a sense of inescapable dread. Brian’s expertise in building tension is evident here, as the track loops endlessly, drawing us deeper into its abyss.
Moving on to “Double Down,” the mood lightens slightly on the album and features a more upbeat rhythm and playful melodies. There’s a sense of determination in the music as if Brian is urging us to take risks and face challenges head-on. The production is crisp and polished, with each element perfectly balanced.
Bloomfield Machine plays with the concept of existence in “This Song Does Not Exist,” a track that feels both present and absent, real and imagined. The use of unconventional sounds and textures gives the impression that the track is constantly evolving, never fully taking shape.
“Mugged by Reality” brings us back to a more serious tone, with a track that feels like a wake-up call. The harsh, industrial sounds and dissonant melodies create a sense of shock and disillusionment as if confronting the harsh truths of life. The track is raw and unflinching, yet there’s a cathartic release in the intensity of the music, offering a sense of closure.
A slower, more introspective piece, “Misery Bond” delves into the concept of shared suffering. The music is deeply emotional, with mournful strings and somber piano chords. The production is sparse, allowing the raw emotion to take center stage. It’s a heart-wrenching exploration of the bonds formed through pain.
Despite the ominous title, there’s a glimmer of optimism in “Hope Springs Infernal”. The music is uplifting, with bright melodies and a driving rhythm. The production is layered and rich, with each instrument contributing to the overall sense of hope. It’s a reminder that even in the darkest times, there’s always a chance for redemption.
The album closes with the slow, almost meditative piece, “Lethargica”. The music feels like a long exhale after a tumultuous journey. The use of soft, ambient sounds and gentle melodies creates a sense of peace and acceptance. It’s a fitting end to an album that has taken us through a vast emotional landscape.
Bloomfield Machine’s “Suiteness” is a masterful exploration of the human condition, weaving together themes of hope, darkness, and everything in between. Brian Kassan’s expertise in production and instrumentation shines through in every track, making this album a must-listen for those of us who appreciate complex, thought-provoking music. Whether you’re listening with headphones to catch every nuance or letting the album play in the background, “Suiteness” is a rich and rewarding experience that will linger in your mind long after the music stops.
Listen to the “Suiteness” album by Bloomfield Machine on Spotify and SoundCloud.
You can follow Bloomfield Machine here for more information.
PS: The artist was discovered on MusoSoup, and a contribution was made to publish this.
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