Review Summary: Alex Lifeson of Rush goes Dream pop.
I stumbled upon Envy of None entirely by accident. I was at work allowing YouTube to take me wherever it wanted, and eventually I ended up on the song “Not Dead Yet”. The description immediately caught my attention because the song was from Rush guitarist Alex Lifeson’s latest project. Furthermore, the song was the opening track from their upcoming second release,
Stygian Waves. Expecting something in the realm of progressive rock, I instead ended up with an unremarkable indie pop track. However, there were enough positive aspects to convince me to try a different song. After all, this was Alex Lifeson, and one does not simply write off Alex Lifeson after a single song… and I’m glad I gave Envy of None a second chance.
While the opening track disappoints,
Stygian Waves quickly redeems itself. The album immerses the listener in a dream pop soundscape where vocalist Maiah Wynne weaves her lush vocals through layers of guitar melodies, ethereal electronics, rhythmic beats, and percussive loops, all delivered through an indie pop filter. Tracks such as “Under the Stars” and “Handle With Care” showcase the band’s ability to craft lavish melodies and dreamlike ambience through a blend of keyboards, electronics, guitars, and vocals all working in tandem to deliver something both intimate and expansive. These melodies float above a lush mixture of dark, hypnotic rhythms and airy, melodic hooks, allowing each track to feel both atmospheric and abstract, yet strangely catchy.
Of course, most people are initially going to be drawn to the band because of Alex Lifeson. Let me tell you, progressive rock this is not. On
Stygian Waves Lifeson’s guitar work is mostly subtle, complementing and augmenting the lush soundscapes crafted by the rest of the band. Despite that description, his talent and years of expertise are still on full display. Alex’s contributions consistently add depth and additional nuance to each song, expertly slotting within the overall sound in a way that only years of experience and familiarity with your instrument can provide. Together with bassist Andy Curran and guitarist/keyboardist Alfio Annibalini, they capably sculpt a lush sonic backdrop for the dream-like vocals of Maiah Wynne.
Envy of None is the latest project by Rush guitarist Alex Lifeson, but if you are expecting progressive rock, you are in for a surprise. Rather than creating a band that simply capitalizes on Lifeson’s established fanbase, Envy of None delivers something entirely different.
Stygian Waves crafts a rich, immersive experience that thrives on atmosphere, melody, and mood. It’s an album that rewards patience, pulling the listener in with its delicate intricacies and dreamlike textures – all executed with remarkable finesse. At the end of the day, you may come for Alex Lifeson, but you’ll stay for the strong songs and capable vocals of Maiah Wynne.
