The songs that Elias Dream creates are based on characters, scenes, and decisions, blending rap, melodic singing, rock influences and cinematic production; ‘Serra’ takes this approach and pushes it into a disturbing area where attention turns into obsession and then into stalking and threats. The story provides the music with a clear aim, the tension increasing as the situation becomes more dangerous.
The progression is well suited by conversational rap; since the account is presented directly, it brings the listener close to the speaker, and the shift from one stage to another forms the main attraction of the song. It’s important to consider what happens next in this context, as it is also important to note the moment when an interest in someone else becomes possessive, with consequences for the person who is the subject of that attention.
Obsession, Tension, Storytelling
-PurpleMistress
When it comes to combining that conversational style with strong rock elements there is a clear decision to be made. The voice conveys the events while the guitars and the cinematic production give the growing threat its sense of scale. Since the story is so disturbing, this kind of combination serves a definite purpose: the words set out the situation and the musical arrangement adds to the pressure surrounding it. The song ‘Serra’ accepts the darker implications of its subject.
The Hammond stands out as a particularly interesting element of the arrangement. The frequent use by Elias Dream of a Hammond B3 with a Leslie speaker gives modern recordings a warm and organic quality. In this instance, that warmth is present together with the guitars as the story moves towards danger. A instrument known for its richness and musical warmth is incorporated into a far harsher environment; its character thus contributes an extra dimension to the atmosphere. What draws me to the premise of ‘Serra’ is its interest in progression. Obsession has a history, and this song follows the steps that lead toward it.
