Are We Ok? by Julian Petrin: Review

by Damien Reid March 1, 2023

March 1, 2023

Are We Ok? by Julian Petrin: Review

“Are We Ok?” by Julian Petrin defines musical escapism with a relaxing synthwave melody. The instrumental number is over three minutes long and is a lovely electronic voyage from start to finish. Julian’s artistic imprint can be felt from the atmospheric basslines to the cinematic rhythms. Ultimately, it’s a tune that absorbs your senses and draws you in on its cadence.

The dawn of synth-infused melodies from the 1980s digital era caused waves in the industry that no one had expected. Even though the Late Jim Morrison AKA The Lizard King, made an interesting prediction in ‘69 of electronica’s inevitable rise, it still made hearing synthpop from a decade later all the more surprising. With that being said, it’s gratifying to hear the genre is still alive in kicking with artists such as Julian Petrin. “Are We Ok?” is one of those soundscapes that pays homage to classic synthwave tunes from the aforementioned era. It has a widespread electro-bass tone that oozes nostalgia. Even the soundtracks of classic NES games from that time echoed in Julian’s song, along with the sonic textures of retro pop.

“Are We Ok?” has an astounding arpeggio sequence. When we reach the middle of the track especially, the melodies go from a mellow pitch to a higher one. This rise in frequency was delightful to hear, and also had an uplifting essence tied to it. Altogether, I’d highly recommend Julian’s tune! It’s a fitting tribute to ‘80s classics after all.