The Cure For Insomnia; 18 minutes of Sonic Melatonin
Preface: We highly recommend letting the album play as you read.
Just a few short months ago, we did a thorough review of a stellar ambient lofi record released by none other than Mike Beating; a french producer & educator who is becoming known more and more for crafting gentle and mesmerizing lofi soundscapes. When it comes to producing chill beats symphonies that possess the qualities to soothe the savage beast, Mike can hang with the best of them. “Insomnie d’Amour” (Translates to Insomnia of Love in French) does just that, and it even includes features from the literal “best of them”. Each track on "Insomnie d'amour" is a testament to Beating's skill as a sonic storyteller, painting vivid portraits of moonlit landscapes and whispered confessions. The gentle rhythms and hazy melodies create an atmosphere of quiet intimacy, inviting listeners to sink into the depths of their own thoughts and dreams.
Released with support from Slowdown Records & Estrela Records, Insomnie d’Amour is comprised of “sleepy melodies that will carry you to a sense of nostalgia.” and serves as an array of “the perfect lofi beats to help you fall asleep” (Mike Beating Instagram Post). Press play above and read ahead as we dive into serenity through delicate musical passages.
During our first listen through, we experienced irony in the sense that we found ourselves staring off into the abyss, lost in thought, and in total relaxation. Something tells me this album’s music is designed to do just that. The record opens with it’s title track, and we couldn’t have asked for a more stunning introduction to Insomnie d’Amour. It was made in collaboration with one of the genre’s most notable producers, Lofi Girl’s Dimension 32. The two composers find a sensational sweet spot between their respective styles. The production value and instrumentation, much like Mike’s previous record, is dense, resonant and full of color. Serving as the first taste of musical texture and as the establisher of the album’s palette of sound, it sets the listener up for a smooth ride, indeed. Another notable track on the record, “Secret to Tell” features a collaborative contribution from Plutones. The track features warm, rich e-piano progressions and signature ambient guitar moans that delicately dance around each other. Throughout the record, this distinct recipe of soft e-piano and reverberated guitar lines becomes a thematic motif and provides consistency, continuity and familiarity to the journey. This simplicity in instrumentation leaves significant space for the listener to float away into calmness and introspection. Of the 8 beautiful sonic offerings found on Insomnie d’Amour, our absolute favorite was the closing track; “Dreams of You”. The romantic chord progression that carries the track’s melodic attributes provides a sense of closure to the record and tells us it’s ok to allow the complexities of human emotion to pass through us one at a time. Life is an ever-evolving journey of change and emotional variety. All we can do is surrender, letting each one pass through, and welcoming the next one as it comes.
There is a certain soulful touch in Mike’s approach to crafting guitar melodies and riffs that is truly unique to himself and is easily recognizable, simply through the delicacy and articulation of his note changes. I am ultra-appreciative to get to watch his journey, as he has dropped multiple meaningful and enjoyable projects so far this year. Whether you're struggling to find sleep or simply craving a moment of quiet introspection, this album is sure to soothe your busy mind and nourish your soul.
In totality, this record is a captivating exploration of nocturnal melodies and tender rhythms, crafted by acclaimed French lo-fi producer Mike Beating. Drawing inspiration from the restless nights and quiet moments of introspection, Insomnie d’Amour weaves a tapestry of soothing sounds that gently guide listeners into the arms of slumber when they need it most. With its delicate instrumentation and ethereal atmospheres, "Insomnie d'amour" is a tender embrace for weary souls seeking solace in the stillness of the night.
You can enjoy Insomnie d’Amour on your favorite listening platform HERE.
