Mono XL, the brainchild of Spanish-born Mike de Lis, is more than just a musical project—it’s an exploration of sound, identity, and artistic freedom. Rooted in a rich tapestry of influences and experiences, Mono XL is the culmination of de Lis’ lifelong journey with music. From his early days in bands like Chacales and Potencia Schach to his transition into sound design and composition in London, de Lis has continuously redefined his artistic approach.
Mono XL thrives on a delicate balance of nostalgia and innovation, blending ‘80s-inspired beats and synths with a retro vocal delivery that feels simultaneously timeless and fresh. De Lis’ love for songwriting and performance shines through in every note, creating music that is as immersive as it is personal. Drawing inspiration from icons like Bowie and Radiohead, Mono XL seamlessly bridges genres, delivering a sound that’s as diverse as it is cohesive. His debut album, “Haze Collector”, is the next chapter in a story that celebrates creativity for its own sake—music made not for fame but for the joy of expression.
Released on November 29th, 2024, “Haze Collector” marks Mono XL’s debut studio album—a work as ambitious as it is intimate. Produced alongside Piti Varela in de Lis’ self-made London studio, the album encapsulates the project’s ethos of blending electronic, rock, and orchestral elements into a singular artistic vision. This isn’t just music; it’s a cinematic journey through soundscapes that evoke both introspection and exhilaration.
From the very first track, “Haze Collector” immerses listeners in a vibrant and emotionally rich world. The album flows effortlessly between genres, with each song showcasing a unique facet of de Lis’ artistry. The retro-tinged synths and big beats provide a nostalgic undertone, while dynamic crescendos and atmospheric textures add a modern, almost ethereal quality.
Haze Collector Album Track List:
I Fall:
”I Fall” opens “Haze Collector” with an introspective and cinematic aura, setting the tone for the album’s sonic journey. The track begins with ethereal ambient synths that create an otherworldly atmosphere, pulling listeners into its reflective mood. The delicate layering of these initial elements evokes a sense of calm, yet there’s an underlying tension that keeps the listener engaged. Subtle electronic pulses, mimicking the rhythm of heartbeats, gradually emerge, building anticipation as the soundscape evolves. This carefully constructed introduction establishes “I Fall” as more than just a song—it’s an immersive experience.
As the track unfolds, Mono XL’s mastery of blending electronic and organic elements becomes evident. The interplay between ambient synth textures and the melancholic tones of an electric guitar creates a rich, dynamic soundscape. The guitar weaves in and out of the mix, adding an emotional weight that contrasts with the precision of the electronic beats and live percussive elements. This balance between synthetic and acoustic instrumentation gives “I Fall” a unique, genre-defying quality. The rhythm section propels the track forward without overpowering its introspective core, making the song feel both grounded and expansive.
At the heart of “I Fall” are Mike de Lis’ hauntingly vulnerable vocals. His delivery carries an emotional rawness that resonates deeply, acting as the track’s emotional anchor. The rise and fall of his voice mirrors the ebb and flow of the instrumentation, creating a synergy that amplifies the song’s emotional impact. Every element of the track feels meticulously crafted, from the crisp beats to the layered atmospheric depth, resulting in a piece that is both intimate and grand. As the opening track, “I Fall” sets a high standard for “Haze Collector”, introducing listeners to a world where emotion and experimentation converge seamlessly.
World of Stone:
As the fourth track on the album, “World of Stone” marks a poignant moment on “Haze Collector”, offering a contemplative exploration of resilience and emotional desolation. Opening with a stark yet hauntingly beautiful chord progression, the track immediately establishes a weighty atmosphere. The minimalist arrangement allows the listener to feel the gravity of the music, while the faint hum of ambient noise in the background adds a subtle, almost cinematic texture. This careful layering invites the listener into a metaphorical “world of stone,” a cold, barren landscape that mirrors the emotional themes at play.
Mike de Lis’ vocal performance on this track is a masterclass in subdued intensity. His weathered tone carries a quiet strength, as if recounting hardships from a deeply personal place. The lyrics, rich with imagery of endurance and emotional erosion, are delivered with restrained emotion, allowing their weight to settle without feeling overwrought. This balance between vulnerability and control enhances the song’s introspective nature, drawing the listener further into its reflective depths. De Lis’ voice doesn’t dominate the mix but blends seamlessly with the instrumentation, creating a cohesive soundscape where every element feels integral.
The track’s instrumentation is both subtle and impactful. A brooding bassline anchors the song, providing warmth amid the starkness, while understated melodies and vocal harmonies contribute to its introspective vibe. The position of the vocals in the mix amplifies the track’s atmospheric quality, reinforcing the idea that the voice is another element in the vast, stony expanse. “World of Stone” doesn’t demand attention but instead quietly captivates, inviting repeated listens to uncover its emotional and musical intricacies. It’s a powerful testament to Mono XL’s ability to craft music that is both raw and polished, leaving a lasting impression on the listener.
Seven Days:
”Seven Days” stands out as one of the most poignant and emotionally resonant tracks on “Haze Collector”. Exploring the transient nature of time and the intensity of fleeting moments, the song begins with a delicate blend of arpeggiated synths and soft chimes, creating a dreamlike atmosphere. This ethereal opening feels both expansive and fragile, perfectly capturing the sensation of time slipping away. Layers of subtle bass and the faint crackle of vinyl static deepen the track’s nostalgic undertones, inviting the listener into an introspective journey through sound.
Mike de Lis’ vocal performance is at the heart of “Seven Days”, imbued with a raw vulnerability that complements the track’s reflective lyrics. His voice quivers with emotion, as though recounting deeply personal memories, lending a sense of urgency and fragility to the song. This vocal authenticity draws the listener into the emotional core of the piece, making the lyrics resonate on a universal level. De Lis’ ability to convey complex emotions with such subtlety is a testament to his artistry, enhancing the track’s intimate and evocative nature.
Musically, “Seven Days” is a masterwork of balance and nuance. The production blends electronic and organic elements with seamless precision, crafting a layered soundscape that feels lush yet grounded. The evolving synth pads and resonant basslines create an expansive backdrop, while sparse acoustic guitar strums introduce a warm, human element. The steady percussion underpins the track without overpowering its delicate structure, allowing the dynamics to shift naturally. These moments of stillness and progression create a narrative flow, making the track feel like a story unfolding. With its intricate textures and profound emotional depth, “Seven Days” lingers in the listener’s mind long after it ends, encapsulating the timeless quality of Mono XL’s music.
Take Me Home:
”Take Me Home” closes “Haze Collector” with a stirring exploration of longing, solace, and the universal desire for belonging. The track opens with a resonant warmth, as if welcoming the listener to a final chapter. Ambient textures hover delicately in the background, subtly hinting at the expansive soundscapes that will unfold. This understated introduction feels like a sunrise over a vast emotional landscape, immediately drawing the listener into its reflective and immersive world.
The arrangement of “Take Me Home” is a masterful interplay of acoustic and electronic elements. The acoustic guitar remains central, grounding the song with its earthy tones, while shimmering synths and a delicate piano line weave through the arrangement, adding texture and depth. Mike de Lis delivers one of his most heartfelt vocal performances on the album, his voice imbued with a raw vulnerability that resonates deeply. The rhythm section is subtle yet effective, with soft electronic beats and percussive flourishes that gently drive the song forward. As the track builds, lush strings and harmonized vocal layers emerge, creating an anthemic crescendo that feels both cathartic and uplifting, mirroring the longing and resolution in the lyrics.
The atmosphere of “Take Me Home” is profoundly introspective, evoking imagery of wide-open spaces and the comfort of finally finding one’s place. The meticulous production ensures that every element—acoustic, electronic, and vocal—blends seamlessly, achieving both clarity and emotional impact. The song’s dynamic build-up and heartfelt delivery make it a fitting conclusion to “Haze Collector”, offering a moment of reflection and solace. By inviting the listener to journey through its emotional highs and lows, “Take Me Home” leaves a lasting impression, encapsulating the essence of Mono XL’s artistry and the transformative power of his music.
The production Is masterful, highlighting de Lis’ multi-instrumental prowess and meticulous attention to detail. The album’s soundscapes are layered with care, building a sense of depth and continuity that makes each song feel like a chapter in a larger narrative. There’s an orchestral sensibility at play here, with sweeping crescendos and subtle instrumentation that evoke the grandeur of a film score. One of the album’s standout qualities is its emotional depth. De Lis’ lyrics delve into themes of self-discovery, connection, and the passage of time, offering a poignant counterpoint to the vibrant, rhythmic energy of the music. His vocal delivery reminiscent of Bowie’s emotive style, adds a layer of vulnerability that makes the songs resonate on a deeply personal level.
At its core, “Haze Collector” is a celebration of contrasts: the past and future, the introspective and the anthemic, the familiar and the experimental. It’s a bold statement from an artist who refuses to be confined by genre or convention. The album’s genre-defying nature feels like a direct reflection of de Lis’ own artistic journey, one marked by evolution, experimentation, and an unyielding passion for music. “Haze Collector” offers a fresh yet familiar experience, blending electronic and rock influences with a creative flair that’s uniquely Mono XL. Mono XL has set a high bar with “Haze Collector”, promising an exciting future for an artist who is just beginning to show the depths of his potential.
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