Jake Allen Releases “Refractions Volume I” (LP)

Jake Allen (music), Jennifer Mann (paintings). In an era where music is predominantly consumed in bite-sized streaming formats, Refractions Volume I emerges as a breath of fresh air—a symbiotic audio/visual project that challenges the very notion of how we experience music. Created by the dynamic duo of Jake Allen and Jennifer Mann, this project transcends conventional boundaries, offering an immersive journey into the realms of synesthesia.

URL: https://www.jakeallenmusic.com/

At the heart of Refractions lies a captivating interplay between Allen’s masterful compositions and Mann’s evocative paintings. Each track and painting in this collection is a response to the other—a testament to the power of creative collaboration. As the listener delves deeper into the album, they are enveloped in a rich layer of sound and color, each piece resonating with a distinct vibrancy.

The opening track, “Diamond,” sets the stage with its mythical aura and eclectic instrumentation. From the ethereal flutes to the shredding electric guitar, it’s a mesmerizing journey that seamlessly blends genres, inviting the listener to surrender to its sonic allure. As the album unfolds, each track unveils a new facet of this sonic odyssey. “Aquamarine” enchants with its harp-driven melodies, while “Fluorite” captivates with its icy cool chimes and experimental vocalizations. Meanwhile, “Tiger’s Eye” serves as a poignant interlude, offering a moment of introspection amidst the album’s dynamic energy.

One of the album’s standout tracks, “Lapis Lazuli,” features the mesmerizing vocals of Lexi Bondar alongside explosive drum-driven rhythms—a testament to the project’s diverse sonic palette. Similarly, “Topaz” infuses funk elements with spirited flute melodies, creating a fusion that feels both innovative and irresistible. Throughout the album, Allen’s compositions serve as the perfect canvas for Mann’s paintings, allowing listeners to forge tangible connections with the instrumental tracks. It’s a testament to the power of art to transcend language and speak directly to the soul.

As the final notes of “Carnelian” fade into the ether, one can’t help but feel a sense of awe at the journey that Refractions Volume I has undertaken. In an age where music often feels disposable, this project stands as a beacon of creativity and innovation—a testament to the boundless possibilities of artistic collaboration. There are times when the songs inform the painting, just as many times as the paintings lend more depth to the music. It’s a unique way to digest an album in the current musical landscape, and will certainly become a favorite of collectors with its limited physical release acting as the sole way to digest the project.

BUY THE ALBUM: https://jakeallen.bigcartel.com/product/refractions-volume-i-12-vinyl-lp-art-catalog-package-pre-order

For listeners aching to dig deeper into Refractions Volume I, there is an extremely limited edition vinyl package available through Allen’s website that includes Jennifer Mann’s exquisite artwork; listeners/readers can play the music at full volume and view the paintings as otherworldly landscapes, interstellar destinations, or perhaps even greatly magnified pieces of flora and fauna. Refractions Volume I is far more than just an album—it’s a transformative experience that invites listeners to explore the intersection of sound and color. With its bold sounds and immersive storytelling, it heralds a new era for music—one where synesthesia reigns supreme and the boundaries of creativity are limitless.

Mark Druery