I’m not gonna lie: we were pretty hesitant when we first saw Blue Nagoon’s Here Be Dragons was a mix between “synthwave” and “rock.”
I mean, they just don’t seem like they should go together, right? Synthwave is usually lush and dreamy, while rock is way grittier and more energetic.
Still, we decided to give it a listen anyways, and I’m so glad we did.
This album is a perfect blend of 80s nostalgia and modern-day production values. The synths are bright and poppy, while the guitars are heavy and distorted and this is a legit entry as a contender for “best 2022 album“.
About Here Be Dragons
This magnificent work reaches us directly from the creative mind of Alaskan independent songwriter and producer, Michael Maas (AKA Blue Nagoon) and was released on day 7th of October 2022.
Here Be Dragons feature 9 different lead vocalists, specifically mentioning Australian-based artist NEAON (with whom we’ve been honored to work ourselves in our album “Beyond The Emotions“) and New York-based Rose Alaimo.
Songs in Here Be Dragons tackle many different subjects: from the need to break unhealthy cycles to fantasy-infused love up until the hardships of life in our present times.
Here be dragons - Luca's TAKE
My impact with Blue Nagoon’s Here Be Dragons was a strange one.
The first listen made me think: “this is not what I expected, but it is somehow interesting.“
The second listen made me think: “ok, listening at this again this is actually pretty nice, not the usual but pretty nice.“
The third listen made me think: “forget it being interesting: this is amazing!“
I guess the only thing I can say is that if you’re, like me, used to the more classic synthwave sounds, you have to listen to the album a couple of times to get hooked, and it’s so worth it!
In fact, why not let me know in the comments at the end what you thought during the first listen and what you ended up thinking of it after 2-3 times?
The album is overflowing with energy, wrapped in a blanket of epicness, like many epic metal songs I used to listen to in the past (see Nightwish for example, or Rhapsody).
It’s like a giant tidal wave of sound and emotion that washes over you and just takes your breath away.
Luca's favourite track in Here Be Dragons:
My favorite track in Here Be Dragon was definitely “This Isn’t Over Yet“.
It gave me a great sense of anticipation and it just “felt” epic and important, like if I was standing on the edge of a cliff, looking out over the vast ocean below, and knowing that I was about to embark on the adventure of a lifetime, while the lyrics were meaningful and full of hope just added to the sensation
Here Be Dragons - Alex's take
Alex's favourite track in Here Be Dragons:
My favorite song in Here Be Dragons is “LIVE WIRE“, which I realized is the only song sung by a man only when I reached the end of the album.
This fact really highlighted the melodic and singing expressiveness of the song for me.
The sounds used, the voice, and especially the sublime and soft change of mood and style in the middle of the song, like a veil caressing and slowly enveloping you in a long, magical night, illuminated by the moon.
I was totally immersed in the music, and this is an amazing experience to feel. It’s like a good book, where you forget everything else around you as you immerse yourself in the story.
I wish I could describe this album with more details and words, but it has to be experienced by the listener.
It is a very unique work of art that will not leave you indifferent.
Conclusions
It is evident that Here Be Dragons is a work of art.
The different elements used in each song are weaved together perfectly, creating a unique and interesting listening experience.
If you are a fan of synthwave or rock music or are simply looking for something new to listen to, We highly recommend giving this album a chance.
Blue Nagoon is an artist who understands how to make powerful, meaningful music and his work is both current and classic. He definitely has great respect for the history of music, and it shows in his work.
The production is top-notch, the musicianship is excellent, and the overall feeling of the album is one of energy and excitement.
The future is bright. It’s time to dream again. To feel the energy press play in the Spotify box below, and if you like what you’re hearing buy it in the Bandcamp box just beside it!
Also do not forget to leave a comment and let us know what you thought of the album and the review!
Remember: Art Can Be More!
Luca and Alex
