Aquarius – Cedric Elisabeth (2024) – Album Review

Album: Aquarius

Artist: Cedric Elisabeth

Release Date: January 29, 2024

Label: Detroit Underground

What a breath of fresh air. And no, I don’t mean that idolized Cyberpunk/Bladerunner mist of acid rain moisture that drenches your very soul with sweet, sweet contaminants. Listening to Aquarius is like being that first cloud on Neptune. You might be alone on a dark, cold and icy planet, but at least you’re a cloud – and it feels amazing.

Aquarius is the kind of album we all need in our life right now; and for future visitors of this website, the year is 2024 so I’m sure you get it. It’s back to basics about what we love about electronic music: structured ambient music with a purpose. The purpose? Letting you know that this, too, shall pass. It’s upbeat, but not in any contrived way – it’s constructive and positive. Soft, yet sometimes impactful house bass hits envelops these lush tapestries. Lots of beautiful moments we can all understand and an acknowledgment of the “light at the end of the tunnel.” We may not be able to see it right now, but it’s there. Maybe that’s what some of us need right now – a reminder that the simplicity of music like this can still bring us joy.

The standout track here is Findaway. Filled with way too much optimism for it’s own good, but honestly I’m here for it. This album is very much ambient house optimism with a touch of lofi to keep you on your toes and to keep you from getting too depressed about the next few months ahead.

Great album. Would absolutely recommend.