The images and subject matters are inspired by the Pacific Northwest. The Upper Strata recently relocated to Portland (OR) and started writing the songs for this album while exploring the new environment. There isn't a specific genre or style that this album fits into, which has been true of previous releases as well.
Time is a middle eastern flavored work (similar to Natacha Atlas) with a big dance beat. Lyrically, it addresses the biggest theme any human can comprehend - our limited time on this planet.
Garden Wall has dubstep elements mixed with accordion and mystical lyrics. Followed by Beyond, which is part two of Garden Wall and has a club sound. Thematically, the image of the garden in art and literature is both the fertile womb and a place of security. The most common symbol of this is the Garden of Eden. By stating that we need to go beyond the garden wall, the song suggests it is inherently human to choose our own destiny.
Neon Glitz is dedicated to the artistry and life of David Bowie. The song has elements inspired by Bowie's music, yet it is it's own creature. The lyrics are both talking about Bowie and the original draw that music has had on Johnny. The idea of going to the wrong side of town to see some underground music is central to the album and this song - the title track.
Sweet Distraction and Willow are new wave inspired dance tracks. The lyrics of Sweet Distraction are addressing the way that love can shelter you from the harsh and cruel aspects of life. Willow is a song about the opposite; the way that sometimes you can love someone and never get that love back.
Lighthouse has a cinematic and bluesy feel - somewhere between Danny Elfman and Leonard Cohen. The beat to Lighthouse was provided by Wyatt Croxton. Similar to Sweet Distraction it's lyrically about the way a partner in a relationship can provide shelter or actually be the storm.
Line is a Motown and R&B jam. Regula was channeling Bob Babbitt and James Jamerson, while Johnny was getting his Al Green and Bobby Womack off his chest. Frankly, it was a rough year. Several of the songs, including Line, are about finding peace, optimism, and strength in bleak situations. Further, Line is ultimately about realizing what solace and support you give and receive in a relationship.
As a husband and wife creative team, the music forms a journal of the relationship. On this work Johnny is often singing something pessimistic and Regula is singing a positive answer. The motif symbolizes the way partners support each other in life, both physically and emotionally - and with The Upper Strata also creatively.
Written, recorded, engineered and mixed by The Upper Strata
Mastering for vinyl by Adam Gonsalves of Telegraph Mastering, Portland (OR)
Record pressing at Cascade Record Pressing, Portland (OR)
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