Ariel My Friend - 'Other Things'

7/10

Over the last few years, experimental "art-rock-psychedelic-pop-symphonic-indietronica" artist Ariel My Friend has established himself as one of the more unique names doing the rounds. His tenure to date has been this sprawling expression of sonically moving adventures that never seem to deliver the same thing twice. And after recently returning to deliver his take on The Beatles' 'Help', completely reinventing their seminal release with his own inspired material, he returns once again to deliver his latest studio album 'Other Things', another heady pursuit down his innovative avenue.

Much like his output to date, 'Other Things' is this wildly predictable offering, delivering some brilliantly immersive and compelling additions. With track lengths varying to everything from nine to two minutes long, his newest endeavour feels even more unhinged, even by his standards. Creating these brilliantly fresh and distinctive ideas that push the boundaries of his aesthetic as far as they will go, it feels like there is nothing he isn't willing to try once in order to broaden his creative ambitions.

While a little disjointed in places, making for an uneasy flow going forward, 'Other Things' still packs itself with plenty of surprises throughout. Creating something this audacious may not be to everyone's liking, but Ariel My Friend certainly knows how to have fun doing it.

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