Edictum’s A Cosmic Scale is an Immersive Journey Through Sound and Space [REVIEW]
In an age where albums have become a rare sight, often sacrificed at the altar of streaming-era convenience, A Cosmic Scale by Edictum emerges as a defiant to the power of long-form storytelling in music. Instead of directly referencing Holst’s The Planets, the album builds on a broader idea—treating the eight planets as an extended musical scale, where harmonic progressions reflect cosmic motion. Each track presents a distinct sound, contributing to an overarching narrative that balances structure with variation. Sounds quite fascinating right? Let’s take a deep dive into each of the tracks on the album.
Astral Guide
The opening track of A Cosmic Scale, Astral Guide, sets the stage for the album’s space-themed exploration. It begins with a deep synth bass, layered over lush pads and ethereal textures, creating a sense of mounting tension before the drums enter. The track’s use of sound effects effectively evokes a cyberpunk atmosphere. A mid-track breakdown introduces a soulful melody, enriched with expansive, space-inspired textures. As the album progresses, each subsequent track builds on this foundation. Definitely, a great addition for your playlists if you are a gamer or fascinated by space stuff.
Solar Flares
“Solar Flares,” as the name suggests, is inspired by the solar phenomenon—a relatively intense, localized emission of electromagnetic radiation in the Sun’s atmosphere. The track captures the high intensity of this concept. It’s upbeat, effectively communicating energy through fast-paced drums and soulful melodies. The rolling bassline further enhances the track’s dynamic energy. With its rich sounds and dramatic shifts, “Solar Flares” pays tribute to the universe while showcasing the raw power of nature.
Mercury
The track is set to a BPM of 173.6, based on real astronomical data. The level of detail in the sound design and the thought process behind the album is impressive. It seamlessly blends synthwave sounds with fast Drum’n’Bass rhythms, creating a feeling that is both futuristic and uplifting, capturing the light, swift essence of Mercury. One of the standout moments of the track is the acid melody in the second breakdown. The addition of vocals over a fast-paced synthwave beat elevates the track to a whole new level. It’s a well-crafted combination of different elements.
Venus
Venus is often referred to as the Bringer of Peace, and this track just like the rest of the album draws inspiration from Gustav Holst’s The Planets, a musical masterpiece composed in 1913-14. Known for its association with warmth and comfort, Venus is represented here with a similarly thoughtful and soothing atmosphere. The track’s slow pace, filtered sounds, and dreamy quality effectively convey the peaceful sentiment behind the planet’s symbolism. The harmonies and melodies stand out as the most captivating elements, with each note inviting the listener to pause, reflect, and appreciate the beauty of connection in the vastness of the universe.
Gaia
In Greek mythology, Gaia is the personification of Earth, regarded as the ancestral mother of all life, with some stories depicting her as creating life on her own. Her name derives from the ancient Greek word for “land” or “earth,” emphasizing her deep connection to nature. The music begins softly, reflecting the slow and delicate beginnings of life. As the track progresses, the sound becomes more dynamic, mirroring the explosive energy of life’s evolution. The intensity of the sounds and drums gradually increase as the track nears its end, effectively drawing a parallel between the emergence and growth of life on Earth.
Mars
Mars, the fourth planet from the Sun, is named after the Roman god of war. As expected, the track is heavy and intense, capturing the planet’s dark and relentless nature. The drums and powerful bassline effectively channel this aggression, while the addition of vocal one-shots enhances the track’s intensity. The composition skillfully navigates the space between Cyberpunk and Dubstep, blending basslines and melodies that amplify the track’s fierce energy.
Blue Moon
The Moon—though not always full—can sometimes appear blue due to atmospheric particles from large forest fires or volcanic eruptions, a rare and unpredictable phenomenon. Inspired by this fleeting beauty, the track embarks on a journey that captures both nature’s brilliance and the sadness of its fading presence. Rich harmonies and a flowing triplet rhythm drive the composition forward, creating a sound that feels both nostalgic and hopeful. Just as the Blue Moon is a rare occurrence, an album with this level of detail, extending beyond just technical precision, is equally uncommon.
Jupiter
“Jupiter, The Bringer of Jollity” bursts onto the scene with bright, uplifting energy, replacing darker tones with pure joy. The track’s 12/8 rhythm creates a lively, dance-like feel, while seamless shifts between major and minor keys keep the composition engaging. The joyful melodies are a delight, making for an energetic and dynamic listening experience. With its fast pace and vibrant sound, this track is well-suited for gaming playlists or casual listening.
Saturn
This interpretation of “Saturn” adopts a more peaceful tone compared to Gustav Holst’s original. As the sixth planet from the Sun, known for its striking hexagonal storm at the north pole, Saturn naturally aligns with the number six—making a 6/8 time signature a fitting choice. The track’s layering is particularly well-crafted, creating a rich depth that mirrors the grandeur of Saturn’s iconic rings.
Uranus
The track opens with a broken beat, complemented by a syncopated synth and atmospheric textures inspired by astronomy. As it progresses, new elements are continuously introduced, maintaining a sense of constant motion—never fully settling. This dynamic flow mirrors the planet’s rapid rotation and tilted orbit, which give it an unsteady, swaying quality. The evolving layers ensure the track remains engaging, with fresh details emerging at regular intervals.
Neptune
“Neptune, The Mystic” embodies the vast, icy emptiness of space. A fusion of electronic and classical elements, enriched by an ethereal, otherworldly choir, evokes a sense of mystery and remoteness. The slower tempo and laid-back atmosphere enhance the track’s introspective quality, while its melodies create a meditative, immersive experience that is both haunting and mesmerizing.
Kuiper Belt
The Kuiper Belt is a vast, doughnut-shaped region of icy bodies beyond Neptune’s orbit, a remnant of our solar system’s formation. The album fittingly closes with “Kuiper Belt,” a track that mirrors the chaotic energy and movement of these countless small celestial objects. Despite their size, each plays a role in the grand structure of the solar system—just as every sound in this composition has its place. The track’s heavy basslines and intricate drum work drive its restless momentum, while its melodies tie everything together, delivering a powerful and cohesive conclusion to the album.
I have to say, I was genuinely impressed by the level of thought and detail that went into this album. Edictum has a rare ability to turn abstract concepts into something you can actually feel through sound. The way each track unfolds, keeping you engaged with its textures and rhythms, makes for a really immersive listening experience. It’s not just an album—it’s a journey. A Cosmic Scale is out now in full, and if you’re into music that tells a story, this one is definitely worth your time.
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