Review
Imogen Heap's *Chordata Bytes II* is a captivating exploration of sound and emotion, showcasing her signature blend of ethereal vocals and avant-garde production. Building on the experimental foundations of its predecessor, this album dives deeper into themes of connection, technology, and the human experience. Heap's innovative use of electronic textures and generative audio tools creates a sonic landscape that feels both organic and futuristic. Tracks like "MetaMorph" and "Neural Bloom" exemplify her talent for weaving intricate melodies with immersive sound design. Each piece feels like a living, breathing organism—a nod to the album's titular reference to chordates and biological complexity. While some moments veer into abstract territory, the emotional depth and technical prowess keep the listener engaged throughout. Overall, *Chordata Bytes II* reaffirms Imogen Heap's place as a pioneer in electronic and experimental music. It's a bold, imaginative work that rewards attentive listening and invites repeated exploration.
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Info
**Chordata Bytes II** is the second installment in Imogen Heap’s innovative Chordata series, showcasing her signature experimental blend of electronic, orchestral, and vocal layering. The album was released on 12 April 2024 in both the UK and the US and continues Heap’s exploration of human connection through sound and technology. The album debuted at number 8 on the UK Albums Chart and reached number 12 on the US Billboard 200. It was released under her independent imprint, Megaphonic Records. Recording sessions took place over three years and were primarily held at Heap’s home studio, The Hideaway, located just outside London. The album was self-produced by Imogen Heap, reflecting her hands-on approach to music creation, incorporating elements generated and influenced by data collected through fan interaction and AI-assisted composition.
Tracklisting
- Anatomy Of An Album, Vol. II
- Darwin Heat
- Matriarch
- Veins
- Catch And Release
- Take To The Skies
- Natural History
- Small Packages
- After Dark
- Baitball
- First Year
- Mother's Wrath
- Uganda Tangle
- Evolution Of A Song
- Kākāpō