Krystian Shek – As You Wish

Frankfurt-based artist Krystian Shek returns with As You Wish, his first full-length album since 2022's Suddenly, once again released on Rohs! Records. This latest album deepens Shek's exploration of ambient textures, where nature and synthetic elements seamlessly intertwine, creating an impactful listening experience that is both emotive and cinematic.

The album opens with 'Skin Like You', where the gentle sound of running water provides a tranquil backdrop. Swirling synths subtly replace the natural ambience, illustrating a transformation from organic to digital. The delicate piano tones in the distance add a breathtaking depth, eventually fading out like echoes through a tunnel. It sets an exquisite example for what follows. 'Miss You' introduces birdsong and an ominous undercurrent, blending keys and synths to evoke a wistful, somber mood. As the track progresses, the atmosphere swells and drifts, carrying a sense of fleeting memories that dissolve like clouds. It feels deeply personal, almost like the soundtrack to a long-forgotten film reel. On 'Never Touched', Shek incorporates the sound of rain hitting a sidewalk, underpinned by rich low frequencies that resonate deeply. The melody is riveting, striking an ideal balance between piano and synths. As the rain returns in the conclusion, it leaves the listener with a profound sense of closure. The title track, 'As You Wish', is where Shek's mastery of effects truly shines. The piano remains the centerpiece, but it is the lingering low tones and the gradual mid-track swell that give this piece its momentum. It feels like a journey, full of movement and emotional resonance. 'Without You' shifts the tone to something more eerie, with digital waves replacing water. The atmosphere suggests mystery, almost cinematic in its suspense, adding variety to the album's soundscape. The final track, 'In Your Eyes'. is a important last moment. A rich, passionate vocal performance adds honesty and depth, while the familiar swelling keyboard textures maintain the album's cohesive, soundtrack-like quality. It serves as a powerful and unique conclusion.

As You Wish is an evocative, meticulously crafted album where each track tells a story. Shek continues to demonstrate his ability to blend natural and synthetic elements with emotional depth, leaving the listener both moved and mesmerized.

- Tim Humphrey aka TIM aka errorsinspace