Ascend by Lauren Nikohl: Album Review

by Damien Reid December 9, 2022

December 9, 2022

Ascend by Lauren Nikohl: Album Review

Mixed with the sensation of deep house, and synth pop music “Ascend” by Lauren Nikohl is an electronic voyage that arrives with 11 melodic tracks. With a powerful, soulful vocal presence and fantastic EDM characterization, all the songs on the album have an allure that just makes you want to get moving on the dance floor.

Hearing the rhythmic nature of “Grow” was a delight. As the synthesizer essence, and thumping bassline flowed on the song, the structure seemed very pleasing to the ears. The singer’s range is also quite passionate and fits perfectly with the reflective aspect of the track. Making my way to the upbeat tension of “The Hero’s Journey” took me on a nostalgia trip back to the 1980s. The style of synths and beats used here sounds very vintage. In combination with the singer’s serene vocals, it feels like a stellar disco mix. ‘Energy” has a fat bassline that has the perfect kick. Synthwave is written all over the song, and Lauren’s deep singing adds a fresh outlook to the melody of the song.

The final two tracks “Overthinking” and “Ascend” are catchy and have a delightful melodic vibe to them. In the former track, the genre appeal of pop and synth is quite prominent. The singing here feels very theatrical and has excellent range. The latter track is a dark techno beat tune that just oozes attitude and mood. The orchestral-type arpeggio with the cyberpunk-style bassline was a fitting close to such a vibing album.