Album Review - No Light! No Light!

It's been a while since we've heard from Mykal Hoare. He released his single "Heart Attack" last year and has since gone underground. Recently, he's resurfaced with a new EP entitled "No Light! No Light!" to show the world exactly what he's got, and lucky for you, he made sure this came to my attention so that I can get on it right on the front lines.

Mykal Hoare has definitely placed himself firmly in the spectrum of pop music with this release. Packaged together with his "Heart Attack" single are three brand new songs to keep people dancing. Each of the songs has it's own vibe while still remaining similar enough to keep his self recognition. The production of the EP rarely shows the signs of being on a budget, and more often than not comes across as polished.

"Heart Attack" is obviously the most polished of the set, being his debut and the focal point of the project. The other songs, while not as sparkly or shiny, are worth giving a listen to. "One Stops Beating" throws a spin into the mix, having him do a Ke$ha style speak-singing bit for the bridge. This one may sound peppy and upbeat, but it's underlying subject matter of a love lost manifested through similes shows a darker side to this artist.

"The EP heavily features a relationship theme and the dark sides of some relationships as well as the good side." Mykal explained to me. "Its funny, pop/dance beats can make light of some pretty heavy content featured within the lyrics but i think the two complement each other very well!" And I agree. The marriage of dark lyrics with the light and poppy beats makes for an interesting juxtaposition.

"Black Out" is the climax of the work for myself. The pulsing beat paired with the oozing confidence make for a dance anthem that can get nearly everyone dancing. It's unconventional pacing in the chorus place it aside from the competition, and it is probably the most radio-friendly track of the package. This comes together with the next track "Nairda", which is the weakest of them all. The point that gets me the most are the vocals. While in the rest of the EP he sounds strong and forward, here sounds reserved and weak. The song has an odd Island flavor that doesn't really fit in with the rest of the collection, either, bringing the fast paced mood down.

This EP has been a long time in the making, and the hard work has paid off. The one shortcoming aside, the work as a whole is actually very well done. "I have been writing the EP for over a year and have put my blood sweat and tears into this one," the artist confessed to me. "Time and time again being set back by different factors. [Now I] finally have produced a product that I am in love with." Rightfully so, I'd say.

You can preview and grab the EP for yourself on iTunes.