Scheduled for release on November 3, 2023, Sacha Mullin’s third solo album, “Casino Wilderness Period,” heralds a musical odyssey orchestrated by the acclaimed artist. Teaming up with renowned producer Todd Rittmann, an alumnus of U.S. Maple, Sacha delivers a masterful ensemble, fusing elements of jazz, rock, R&B, and introspective singer-songwriting. The album is poised to be a remarkable progression from his lauded previous releases, applauded by notable outlets such as The Wire, BBC6, Chicago Reader, WBEZ’s Vocalo, and The Big Takeover.
Lauded by the late Julee Cruise and fondly nicknamed an “angel,” an “alien,” and a “vocalist extraordinaire” by the Chicago Reader, Sacha Mullin brings forth an uncharted sonic landscape. Having made significant contributions to diverse ensembles like Dead Rider, Lovely Little Girls, and Cheer-Accident, Sacha’s solo career reflects his musical fearlessness and vocal prowess that has garnered praise for over a decade.
The lead single, “Arranging Flowers,” serves as an enthralling wall of sound, featuring compelling vocals from Mullin and industry heavyweight Emily Bindiger riding atop Rittmann’s propulsive drumming. This incisive track, accompanied by a mesmerizing analog glitchy music video by German media artist Glass Void, dissects themes of celebrity worship, opulence, and existentialism amidst a towering musical backdrop.
The album comprises an extraordinary lineup of backing vocalists, including Emily Bindiger, Judi Vinar, Annmarie Cullen, and Mem Nahadr, delivering an eclectic array of musicality, from R&B flair and jazz improvisations to gospel choir harmonies, mourning themes of connection and clarity.
Other standout tracks include “Telepathy,” a fusion of R&B and jazz elements that soar with Mullin’s striking vocals, and “Margaret,” a disco-meets-country ballad. “Waves” pulsates with heartache, while the album culminates in the cinematic “Window Out,” an ethereal piece drawing on influences ranging from Carole King to Burt Bacharach and Dionne Warwick.
Crafted in collaboration with Dog & Pony Records and Dipterid Records, both hailing from Illinois, the album embodies a commitment to showcasing music that traverses the fringes of the Midwest and beyond. These labels champion an array of musical styles, from math rock and post-rock to shoegaze and post-hardcore, fostering an environment for unique, boundary-pushing sounds.
Sacha Mullin’s resonant voice, drawing influence from artists like Kate Bush, Joni Mitchell, and Sugababes, delivers a unique sound characterized by intricate harmonies and distinctive chords. With a career that has ventured from recording Japanese jingles to sharing stages with diverse artists, Sacha stands as an artist of utmost versatility and creativity.
“Casino Wilderness Period” stands as a testament to Sacha Mullin’s creative depth and innovative approach to crafting music that defies conventions, forming an album that is a deeply personal and audacious artistic expression.
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