Lancelot Chen captivates us with immersive concept album, Gist of the Dusk.

By Graeme Smith

Appearing on our blog for the first time, Lancelot Chen has captured our attention with his new concept album, Gist of the Dusk.

The album starts with Ovation in Our Minds and we are introduced to a singer telling their story to the public before launching into an extended flashback. Musically, it’s tricky to define as we get pop with other, more experimental elements. Lancelot’s vocals are beautifully unique and soulful during an atmospheric verse.

Lyrically, the album’s story speaks of moving past trauma and reaching one’s dream and how the past doesn’t define the present. This is reflected by the album’s running order, with the darker tracks near the start and the lighter ones at the end.

Scary Hour is Gothic and cosmic as it moves gradually through an extended instrumental introduction before arriving at an emotional groove. It bleeds seamlessly into The Other Side which brings elements of The Weeknd-esque RnB among its cantering electronica. Million Lightyears rounds off the early listening with a stripped-back and soulful moment.

Back in Time and Left Shoulder are percussive, severe and vibrant highlights. Walk Like You brings some quick-fire vocal delivery and a touch of the Pet Shop Boys before we arrive at cantering interlude Keep My Heart Away.

The album’s final leg gives us the bright pop wonder Starlight,, the longing of Raid Out and the hopeful and textured Heaven’s Fall. The album is finished in triumphant fashion by title track Gist of the Dark.

The uniqueness of Lancelot Chen’s sound really makes him stand out. It’s difficult to identify much like it. For all its experimentation, though, there’s also plenty of relatable emotion and captivating storytelling. It’s very much an album that needs to be enjoyed from start to finish, so find yourself an hour and let it immerse you.

Gist of the Dusk is out now and you can give it a listen below.