Con Fusion, the fifth studio album released by Gem FM, otherwise known as James Freeman, is interesting and entertaining. Incorporating lite rock and vintage-inspired electronica, it strikes a good balance between the two. Positive, energetic, and a bit unusual, the 10-track album is a testament to why music benefits when it goes off script and doesn’t follow a formula. It’s also a good example of why indie music deserves to be heard.
The first track is “Epiphanous Dream,” and it’s trippy; think neon laser light show at some futuristic event. Up next is the funky “Hit the Door,” which has a late 80s early 90s vibe, with some filtered vocals. After that comes the “Glide on By.” If the previous track evoked comparisons to the decades past, this too echoes something old-school. The acoustics remind me of Simon & Garfunkel, but the electronic elements add a contemporary edge.
The pace picks up with “Diggy Diggy Boop Boop.” Feeling more like an experimental synth track, it still has a seasoned sophistication to it. A nice and quick tempo with a sober but not somber harmony has a playful quality to it, though I wouldn’t call it a club track. This is followed by “Big Daddy's Gonna Come Today,” which just may be my favorite title for a track on the album. It’s slower than the previous track, but still has plenty to pay attention to.
“Double Dribble” starts off unexpectedly. It’s a futuristic, fast-paced, electronic-heavy track that has strong percussion, cool programming, and audio effects that make you feel like you’re in an immersive video game. It’s definitely something that hits closer to home for me. A similar energy characterizes “RUda1,” though it probably echoes a more vintage video game. Now, “Bake the Cake” takes the cake for me, with its filtered vocals, fun keyboards, and quick pace.
The second to last track is the minute-and-a-half-long “Marion Morning,” which has a slightly folksy and lite rock quality to it. The guitar on it is very pleasant, and features elements of bluegrass and country, though it does not fully fit into either category. And last but not least is “Do You Love Me.” It has strings, electronic elements, an unusual percussion, and may — very slightly — mimic an escalating heart beat.
Overall, the Gem FM’s work is an easy to consume album that’s full of clever arrangements, unexpected harmonies, interesting production, and an eclectic mix of tracks. If you have a chance to give it a go, I definitely recommend it. A lot of mainstream music is made for commercial success, but if you’re looking for art, Con Fusion may be a better option, so check it out.
Note* Music provided for objective review by our partners.