A Golden Age in Lofi

Mondo Loops has been setting a high standard for himself in the lofi space for quite some time now. His recent full-length, ‘Golden Age’, is absolutely no exception; Released via the iconic Lofi Records (i.e Lofi Girl), the record sets some new standards in regards to the level of expression, authenticity, production value and musicianship that can be found in the instrumental beats scene.

When one watches his YouTube content, it doesn’t take long to find out all that Mondo is capable of musically. Whether it be through creating the exquisite stereo image that can be found in the album’s opening track, ‘The Last Onod”, or by creating gorgeously resonant piano progressions as can be seen sprinkled throughout the record; or perhaps even within the crying lap steel lines found in ‘A New Bloom’. One thing is for certain; Golden Age is full of life, love of craft, and is seeping with production value that transcends your typical lofi hip-hop work.

Mondo Loops’ 2023 full-length record, ‘Golden Age’

…i.e. another Lofi Records Banger

One thing that is very easy to pick up on is Mondo’s tasteful blending of indie-folk elements with those of lofi and chillhop. We’ve heard Mondo discuss this intentionality in his productions before, but ‘Golden Age’ is a highly refined version of that endeavor. Aged to maturity, if you will. This is, of course, evident in the literal sense, with his choice of instrumentation (lap steel, trumpet, felt piano, acoustic guitar and folksy guitar progressions on his Stratocaster). However, it also presents itself through Mondo’s approach to mixing, as well as his compositional devices. He keeps the entire record’s sound palette thematically dark, lush and always easy on the ears, utilizing texture and warmth at every step; A tonal roundness and level of structural finality that can often be found in the sonic dwellings of a Gregory Alan Isakov record. Well done, Mr. Loops. Bravo!

You can enjoy ‘Golden Age’ on your favorite listening platform here.