SPILL ALBUM REVIEW: JOHN FOXX – THE ARCADES PROJECT

John Foxx
The Arcades Project
Metamatic

It seems hard to believe that after close to 50 years of making music, John Foxx has never recorded a solo piano album until now. The Arcades Project is his second release this year and although it is not solely piano, this a welcome addition to his lengthy catalogue of music.

Foxx has created 12 stunning pieces of music centred around the piano. The music is sparse, minimalistic, and extremely moving. It is based around piano with layered synth supporting the feature instrument. Like a leisure walk, Foxx lets the songs take form as they will throughout the piece. He does not rush anything or feel the need to control where the muse leads him. As the songs play, it is easy to imagine the music as a soundtrack to a very peaceful and enlightening walk. It is quite easy to have the imagery of scenery in the mind’s eye as each song flows into the next. The songs have a touch of melancholy but they are all exquisite.

Each song has its own distinct feel and imprint but all the songs fit and belong together. It is a joy to listen to and absorb. But like a lot of his instrumental music it does play out like a soundtrack for whatever you choose. “Floral Arithmetic” is stunningly beautiful and full of emotion, while elsewhere he leads the listener to see the “Last Golden Light”.

The Arcades Project is best to start at the beginning and let it play throughout. Foxx lulls the listener in, and the reward is not being allowed to leave. It goes a long way in demonstrating just how much of a genius he is.

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