Paul White, the celebrated multi-instrumentalist and synth wizard, is set to return with his third full-length album, Peace In Chaos, releasing on October 11 2024 via R&S Records, the seminal Belgian electronic music label specializing in forward-thinking electronic music. Paul White is known for his innovative production work with artists such as Danny Brown, Sudan Archives, and Jessy Lanza, and he steps into the spotlight with this album, which promises to be his most personal and cinematic yet. I had the chance to hear an advance copy of the LP, here’s what you can expect.

Journey Through Sound

Peace In Chaos is more than just an album; it's a sonic exploration that mirrors the complexities of our current times. Drawing inspiration from 80s synth music and classic film scores, White crafts a world where lush melodies, towering drum patterns, and majestic basslines converge to create a soundscape that is both immersive and reflective. Across eleven tracks, the South London-based producer takes listeners on a journey that oscillates between moments of serene beauty and intense, driving rhythms.

This new body of work follows on from his critically acclaimed albums Rejuvenate (2018) and Shaker Notes (2014). However, Peace In Chaos marks a distinct evolution in White's sound. While his previous records were deeply rooted in experimental and avant-garde production techniques, this album seems to be embracing a more accessible - yet still esoteric - electronic pop sound.

The tracks are infused with White's signature cinematic touch, creating music that not only engages the ears but also paints vivid images in the listener’s mind.

Mature Themes

Thematically, Peace In Chaos is a reflection of White's desire to find tranquility in an increasingly turbulent world. "I’ve always heard music in a very visual way. I’d like to put this album out there as film, or game scenes, and it’s a movie or game about trying to find peace in a chaotic world,” White explains.

The album’s title itself suggests a duality that resonates deeply with the times we live in. White captures the tension between serenity and disorder, crafting soundscapes that are at once soothing and unsettling. His use of melodic synths, complex drum arrangements, and his own enigmatic vocals creates a tapestry of sound that evokes both the calm and the storm.

A Solo Endeavour

What sets Peace In Chaos apart from White’s previous works is his personal involvement he has in every aspect of its creation. This is a solo endeavour in the truest sense—White not only wrote and performed every track, but also handled all production and recording duties himself. This all-encompassing approach has allowed him to fully realize his artistic vision, unencumbered by outside influences.

Having honed his craft over years of working with some of the most innovative artists in the industry, White brings a level of polish and expertise to Peace In Chaos that is immediately apparent. His meticulous attention to detail is evident in every track, whether it’s the carefully layered synths, the intricate drum patterns, or the way his vocals weave in and out of the mix.

Deep Focus

In a landscape crowded with electronic music releases, Peace In Chaos stands out for its depth and cohesiveness. White’s ability to blend cinematic elements with accessible pop structures places him in a unique position among his contemporaries. Compared to other major releases in the genre, this album holds its own by offering something that feels both familiar and refreshingly new.

While other producers might rely heavily on collaborations or feature numerous guest artists to diversify their sound, White's decision to go it alone results in a more focused and cohesive work. His influences are worn on his sleeve, yet the execution is uniquely his own, making Peace In Chaos an release to watch for this fall.

Peace in Chaos

Supernova
Glory In Stories
Humble Beginnings
My Lips Silenced
Surreal
First Sight
The Big City
In The Heart
Sky Castles
Burnt A Picture
Runway