The Swiss born artist Michael de Salem’s album Something Getting Wrong definitely captures his world view, “Something Getting Wrong is a musical reflection on how I have come to perceive the world over the past 25 years. I intend for my music to make people consciously aware of certain unpleasant and pleasant incidents occurring amongst humanity by building my music around particular events that have evoked my attention.” There is plenty of conscious inducing music to be found here. It is hard to get through the songs without being put into some type of reflective state.
The first thing noticeable about “Metropolitan” is the sobering beat used throughout the song. Along with the beat are the sound of sirens and other background music used to convey the city atmosphere. There is a real sense of walking down a big city street and getting lost in the anonymity provided by the concrete jungle. “Sentimental Stops” does have a sentimental touch to it like the title implies. It is sure to rise up emotions, but it has the benefit of doing this without being sappy. “Lost But Not Afraid” is another very good song and one of the true gems of the album. The music is subtle and haunting. Be sure to pay attention toward the end of the song. It is the best part.
“Emergency Talking” is a different sounding song from the rest and it stands out for me on the album. The beat is distinctly different by being heavier and it also has the characteristics of feeling more spacey and out there. “Remind” is an eerie song. There is this feeling as if something is wrong and impending, but it is unseen and creeping up on you.
The title track “Something Getting Wrong” is a great song and is my favorite one on the album. There is a magic to it that should not be missed. Like the name suggests, “Higher” has a transcendent quality to it, mirroring the reflective theme that has been running so far. Bringing the album to a conclusion is “Not An End.” The song is appropriately named because it leaves the listener pondering over what was just heard. The experience of it all does not end when the music stops playing.
Something Getting Wrong is not an album to rock out to or head-bang to, and you probably will not be dancing to it either, but that is not what is about. The music of Michael de Salem has an introspective and meditative quality to it that is meant for personal reflection. That is what makes this album so enjoyable to listen to. It is the type of music that gets better and better with each listen.
Key Tracks: Metropolitan, Lost But Not Afraid, Something Getting Wrong
Brian McKinnon - Muzikreviews.com Staff
August 4, 2011
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