Nullmatrix

More of the similar sounds and lyrical content found in previous releases, Nullmatrix has a bit more of an aggressively electronic flair. The title track, nullmatrix serves as a dividing interlude between the more intense, chaotic first half, and the more ambient second half containing longer stretches of spacey, open air. The pairing of these sounds with lyrics regarding grief, isolation, and emptiness paint a picture of the blurred lines between physical life and digital identity, and the impact of online relationships. Feeling so close to someone despite the physical distance that separates you, leaves a strange combination of love and hope, all-the-while a desperate yearning for something "real" lingers.

I can't help but think of Lain when listening, especially in the lyrics of Ferrofluid and Griefseed. Maybe it served as at least one source of inspiration for the EP, or as an artist as a whole. For me, they capture a unique sense of confused nostalgia I feel in other works like Alice in Wonderland; trapped as a misfit in a strange world with no clear path out. I really want to see a release from Strawberry Hospital longer than like 15 minutes, and it's a shame we haven't gotten a full length album despite 8 years as an artist, and 2 years since the last EP. Two of the tracks are instrumentals, so we're really only getting 4 full tracks here. At the same time, that tantalization keeps me coming back for repeat listens. One of my favourite artists of the last few years with a unique sound that I haven't heard elsewhere, executed to the same degree.

While I felt Phantasmaphilia had more shoegaze elements, Nullmatrix seems to pick up where Data.Viscera left off, tansitioning from a more metal to trance sound. If you want to feel like you've been trapped in a demonic Dance Dance Revolution game by a vengeful spirit after exploring an abandoned arcade, give this a listen. Looking forward to the next release! :D

Fav tracks: Ferrofluid, Rhythm 0.