Los Angeles – John Jagos began experimenting with making electronic music while attending Ohio University in 2009. After adopting the name, Brothertiger, he released his fanciful synth-laden debut EP Vision Tunnels. Since then, Jagos has released the critically praised LPs, Golden Years (2012) and Future Splendors (2013). With his recent move to Brooklyn, New York, Jagos is about to release his third LP, Out of Touch. The ten-track endeavor is an emotionally heavy outing, but it’s not overwhelming. Jagos takes a lot of personal experience and embeds it into his optimistic melodies. Underling themes of distress, apprehension, and fearfulness are present, but that’s only natural to explore for any artist in there twenties. As noted by Jagos, Out of Touch is a deeply personal record that explores the positive and negative aspects of trying to find one’s self in society in a post-college setting. Sure, the album focuses on all these things in life, but does it sound any good? The short answer is absolutely. Jagos’ chillwave arrangements, comforting vocals, and poignant lyrics clearly make this an entirely worthwhile experience to share. Often times, I found myself looking back in my own existence and Out of Touch is a prodigious piece of music that aids one along their own footpath.
“Beyond The Infinite” is the grand opener for Jagos and it’s a real beaut. The oscillating synths and lush soundscape mixed with Jaogs lyrics that look inward rather than outward all form perfectly together. So right off the bat, we have something incredibly moving to set the stage for Out of Touch. “Wake” features warm, wistful vocals constructed around electronic music that leans toward the soft-rock side. Jagos showcases ambient tones over his sanguine lyrics. “Fall Apart” is yet another lovely tune that encouragingly moves forward as it progresses. Jagos utilizes his signature ethereal quality again and everything just falls into place effortlessly. In many ways, the album is shaping up to be the feel-good record of the season. While many life-changing themes are explored, optimism is always center stage. With all that’s dark in the world, Brothertiger tries to shed light in the most unforeseen places.
The title track delves into 80s synth-pop and there’s nothing to complain about here. It’s an electro-pop track showcasing exceptional sounds that evolve into something memorable. While Brothertiger stays within a particular soundscape, no two tracks really feel much the same. Jagos is able to craft something new and special each go around. “Engulfed” starts off with bouncy and tropical beats. The chilled vibe and dreamy impression it gives off definitely makes the listener feel at home. As the album moves forward, we land on “Grenada,” a peaceful, nostalgic track that really hits every note faultlessly. It’s utterly affecting and meditative in every aspect of the song. Jagos has the remarkable propensity of writing just the right lyrics for his immaculate sounds. Everything goes hand in hand making Out of Touch feel like the perfect album. “Drift” ends this latest chapter for Brothertiger and it’s another spotless example in perfection. The impactful song is colorful and engaging with pleasant vocals and comforting emotion throughout. In the end, I was deeply moved, inspired, and enlightened by the complete journey that was offered. Out of Touch speaks volumes beyond the listener finishing the record. It will linger with you, stick inside your mind, and enter into your soul. Frankly, it’s captivating to say the least. Brothertiger’s latest composition brings a lot to the table as Jagos firsthand approach to songwriting and outlook on life is splendid, touching, and authentic all at the same time.
Check out more information on Brothertiger via Facebook.
Sean Kayden
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