“Optical Delusion” stands as Orbital’s highly anticipated tenth studio album, unleashed on 17th February 2023. Produced by the talented duo, Paul Hartnoll and Phil Hartnoll, the album showcases collaborations with esteemed artists including The Mediaeval Baebes, Dina Ipavic, Penelope Isles, The Little Pest, Anna B Savage, Sleaford Mods, Coppe, and Andrew Britton.
This masterful album marks a captivating “return to form” for Orbital, where they skillfully blend melodic techno and ambient soundscapes to create an immersive sonic experience. Throughout “Optical Delusion,” listeners are treated to lush atmospheres, captivating rhythms, and soaring melodies, while the inclusion of guest vocals adds a captivating new dimension to Orbital’s signature sound.
The journey begins with the haunting “Dirty Rat,” a dark industrial techno track featuring compelling vocals by Jason Williamson of Sleaford Mods. Following that is “Ringa Ringa (The Old Pandemic Folk Song),” a beautifully haunting ballad reflecting on the COVID-19 pandemic, adorned with the enchanting vocals of The Mediaeval Baebes.
The eponymous track, “Optical Delusion,” stretches for six mesmerizing minutes, immersing listeners in a slow-building, atmospheric journey filled with electronic textures and captivating soundscapes, evoking an intriguing sense of unease and wonder.
“Dina Ipavic lends her ethereal vocals to the driving techno beat of “Day One,” adding an otherworldly touch to this alluring collaboration. Lastly, the album concludes with “Requiem for the Pre-Apocalypse,” a powerful and poignant seven-minute ambient piece that crescendos into a stunning soundscape, inviting profound contemplation on the theme of the world’s end.
With “Optical Delusion,” Orbital demonstrates their prowess as one of the most significant electronic music acts of all time. This diverse and audacious album is a must-listen for electronic music enthusiasts and promises to be hailed as a timeless classic for generations to come.
