A quirky and intricate record, ‘One Way Ticket’ is a deeply nostalgic album, yet one that carries a great deal of cinematic futurism in it. Pushed into music-making as an escape from the overwhelming political and societal fights in the US, Richmond, VA-based musician and composer Michael Barrett Dixon found fertile inspiration in his love for sci-fi and space exploration. Citing NASA’s many accomplishments as a source of wonder, it’s easy to trace a link between the classic soundtracks of sci-fi movies and Dixon’s cosmic electronic style.
‘One Way Ticket’ is exactly that, an electrifying and evocative journey into Michael’s musical universe, paying homage to several of his favourite composers, including the likes of Hans Zimmer, Eric Serra and Vangelis. With such influences, Dixon also develops a keen eye for vintage sound design, with analogue synthesisers being at the forefront of the album. There’s also a certain Kraftwerk-esque flair in it, especially in the noisy and primordial drum parts.
Also a talented singer, the American creative lends his prophetic and ethereal vocals to the cause, with the occasional vocoder enriching an already precious and luscious aural journey. One would say it’s an interstellar journey… Speaking about the ethos behind the album, Michael explains: “Its epic nature allows it to envelop the listener like the vastness of space would envelop a solo traveller. Lyrics are often cerebral or ethereal, yet still hook the listener. Repeated listening allows listeners to catch small elements of homage to sci-fi films and composers as well.”
Recommended! Discover ‘One Way Ticket’ on Spotify:
