Ben Seretan is a multifaceted musician known for his diverse and prolific output. His career has taken him across various countries and genres, from virtuosic guitar performances to contemplative harmonium and voice compositions. Ben’s music often reflects personal experiences and emotional landscapes, capturing both joyous and sorrowful moments. He has developed a loyal following, especially in unexpected places like Italy, where his unique sound and engaging live performances have resonated deeply.
Allora is an album recorded during a brief but intense period in 2019 in the hills above Venice. It captures a specific moment in time, both for Ben and his band, and reflects the emotions and circumstances surrounding its creation. The album was made shortly after the passing of a close friend, amidst a planned tour that turned into a recording retreat. The result is a collection of tracks that are raw, dynamic, and deeply resonant, embodying the spirit of the time and place in which they were created. Seretan paints several canvases here, as several tracks pass the 8-minute mark while another just passes 2 minutes.
The record features a blend of experimental rock, ambient textures, and improvisational elements. The album’s sound ranges from high-energy guitar riffs to serene harmonium and vocal arrangements. The interplay between Ben’s guitar work and the contributions of his bandmates creates a rich, layered sonic experience that balances intensity with moments of quiet reflection. The lyrics are deeply personal and evocative, reflecting the intense emotions and experiences of the time. Ben’s writing captures a sense of immediacy and raw honesty, often exploring themes of loss, resilience, and the beauty of fleeting moments. His ability to convey complex emotions with simple, powerful imagery is a hallmark of the album’s lyrical content.
Ben’s sound has continuously evolved, showcasing his ability to shift between various musical styles and approaches. From the energetic and spontaneous performances in his earlier work to the more structured yet emotionally charged compositions in Allora, his music reflects his growth as an artist. The album’s recording process, in collaboration with Matt Bordin, brought a new level of polish and depth to his sound.
You might find similarities to artists like Yonatan Gat, Juan Waters and David Bazan who also explores personal and emotional themes with a raw, unfiltered approach. There are also echoes of the introspective songwriting of Adrianne Lenker and Sufjan Stevens.
“New Air” opens the album and sets the tone with its dynamic shifts and captivating melodies. With its over 8-minute running time, it offers plenty of intense turns. “Bend” is a standout track that navigates grief and celebration, blending elegiac and danceable elements seamlessly. “Free” is another long track on the album which once again showcases Seretan’s ability to be creative in his blending of multiple instruments and sounds that really draw you into the track.
Thomas Wilde
For more of Thomas Wilde’s music reviews, check out The Fire Note
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