An artist, if he is honest, will surely admit that he does not fully understand how his work is born. Everything he creates is already embedded in the world around us – melodies, words, harmonies – these are just puzzles waiting to be put together. The role of the artist is to reveal what has always been; however, the more the artist approaches the process as a creator seeking authority, the less the work becomes. The musical duet with which I want to introduce you prefers to step aside and let the process happen. Meet the PHI-108 duet, consisting of Australian musicians Alfred Abraham and Alan Barber.

The history of PHI-108 began in the early 90s when Alfred and Alan first started creating music together. Their friendship and creative partnership have endured for decades, despite the ocean that separates them: Alfred moved to the USA and Alan stayed in Australia. However, technology became their ally. Video chats and remote music sessions helped them preserve the spark and gift listeners with unique music. To be honest, their creativity is not always planned triumphs, but happy accidents, the result of impulses they trusted. Their strategy is simply to let the song itself suggest what it needs to gain its character and meaning. Each song of the duet is a separate universe, each with its own laws and rules.

Photo by PHI-108

January 31, 2025, will be a key date for indie music and adventurous pop fans, as PHI-108 is ready to release their long-awaited album “Solve for Why.” Their new album is a complex, emotionally charged work, full of sincerity and captivating sound textures. It became the result of a long journey of the musicians, which began with a series of impressive singles. Since June 2024, they have gradually shared their singles to eventually combine them into a full album.

I am sure the release will shock even the most sophisticated listener. It is a bold blend of Introspective indie and experimental alt-pop, full of sincerity and captivating sound textures.The album opens with the song “Behind the Curtain,” which lifts the curtain on this musical story. Light guitar picking, multilayered vocal harmonies, and atmospheric percussion create a magical backdrop. Next comes “The Supersoul,” a song with warm 70s vibes. Combining rock ‘n’ roll boldness with melodic ease, the track makes you smile. A true explosion of positivity, it shows how easily the band can switch from genre to genre without losing its unique energy.

Then comes “Time Immemorial”, a grand symphonic melody, with a rich string arrangement and electric guitars creating something as majestic as episodes from films about the fate of humanity. “Time Immemorial” has up to 60 vocal layers in areas where the choral parts overlap. But “An Ugly Place” is a completely different story. Dark, deep, sometimes rough, it seems to peer into the innermost corners of the subconscious. The guys don’t get fixated on genres – for them, it’s more of a cage than a creative platform. PHI-108 prefers to give each song its own character, voice, and life, so that it can honestly convey the message contained within it.

For example, the track “Fortress of Ice.” At first glance, it refers to folk and blues, but don’t be deceived. Its sound – the signature mystery of PHI-108 – pulls you into a cold, shimmering world, into the rhythm of drums and atmospheric guitars. And it is precisely this approach – mixing elements, taking risks, and constantly experimenting – that makes PHI-108’s music alive and unpredictable. “Offerings” continues the theme of sonic magic, adding ambient elements and dramatic rhythms to the mix.

The true revelation, however, comes with “Drip Fed Friend“ ,a seven-minute musical confession. Gentle piano melodies intertwine with jazz-infused drums, creating a sound that is both melancholic and elegant. The track touches on complex themes such as mortality and the struggle with addiction. The duet approaches difficult topics, trying to identify the sources of suffering in this world. The problem must be identified before it can be neutralized. I particularly like that such a long song almost has no repetitions, which gives it movement and progress. The album’s finale, “Reruns of History,” leaves you pondering: “The future is not a mystery,” the lyrics remind, emphasizing how important it is to learn from the mistakes of the past. PHI-108 finishes the album with a strong statement, saying that in music, as in life, it’s important to strive for understanding and growth.

The album “Solve for Why” is a story of passion, mastery, and how real connection knows no boundaries. Even when on opposite sides of the globe, the duet created an ambitious and incredibly rich sound. Take a look into the world of PHI-108 and don’t miss the chance to hear “Solve for Why” in full, which will be available on January 31, 2025. And if you can’t wait, head to Spotify and start listening to the singles right now. After all, you don’t want to miss the future when it’s literally playing through your speakers, do you?

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