Secret of Elements is the stage name for German composer and multi-instrumentalist Johann Pätzold. Released on the experimental and always artistic InFiné label, his new album ‘Chronos’ is a biographical body of work on musical activism. You see, Johann has been involved in, or inspired by, the mass amount of social upheaval the last decade has contained. He travelled to help with the Syrian refugee crisis for example. Alongside that, Johann has dealt with his own mental health battles, including writing some of his upcoming album in a mental hospital. On the flip side, he also celebrates the birth of his children. It sounds weighty and I’m sure it will be but Secret of Elements then reflects back on all of this upheaval through the eyes of Chronos. Chronos is the Greek god of time. Time is something it feels like humanity is poor of these days and so we have moments of wonder, grief, sorrow, diaspora and wisdom. All as time moves on.
‘Cassini’ is the lead single for the new album. It focuses on the space probe that got close to Saturn and feels spacious, airy, full of wonder and free. Mixing synths, harps, pianos and drums – its an electronic orchestra fit for any sci-fi movie. The single is out now, whilst the album ‘Chronos’ is due for release on the 23rd of April. Secret of Elements says that ‘Cassini’ is the album’s centrepiece. To me, it also feels like a tipping point between reflection and action. It is beautifully haunting and exciting at the same time.
Enjoy ‘Cassini’ below.
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