This is an amazing record that is intriguing despite its simplicity. Euphoria is essentially one guy, Ken Ramm of Toronto, Canada. This is both a guitar record and an electronica record, with both playing equal part of importance. You know how some instrumental records lack focus and just kind of meander on aimlessly? Not the case here. There are 12 songs on here and they all have their own unique identity. And in fact, it's not completely instrumental as Ramm has invited singers Tina Dico and Tracy Bonham to collaborate on several songs. Ramm has also recruited drummer Steve Sidelnyk to the project. Sidelnyk is also a producer who has worked with Massive Attack and Madonna.
The songs vary from the down homes-y "Back Against the Wall" (a great cut that sounds like what would happen if you invite a DJ to a Baptist Sunday picnic) to the dreamy escape of "The Getaway". All the songs with Dico and Bonham are terrific with each really lending their personalities to the songs. Of course, some of the best moments in the record are with Ramm's guitar leading the way. The 12-string on "The Glendale Train" is just excellent along with aforementioned "Back Against the Wall". The guy is inventive with both technique and sound.
What a pleasure it is to listen to this record.
