Inner Wave - Apoptosis (2021) Hi-Res

Inner Wave’s new album, Apoptosis, is all about leaving the crowded space.

The dictionary definition of “apoptosis” is “the death of cells which occurs as a normal and controlled part of an organism’s growth or development.”
But Apoptosis only briefly brushes through the resigned feelings of loss and reminiscence. Instead, the undoubtable maturing sound and the typical Inner Wave nonchalance serve as highlights of the album.

“One in a Million” immediately sets the groovy undertone. The guitar riff following the intro feels prominent at first, until all the different elements roll in subtly. ” Lead vocalist Pablo Sotelo’s vocal echoes lightly over the spacey track. A journey of mystery were to be expected.

Both “Rey” and “Fever” feel almost aggressive — each in a very different manner. “Rey” has a tempo on the slower end, but the mix of instrumentation spins wildly and competes with each other. “Fever,” on the other hand, has a steady disco-inspired tempo that allows the different instruments to blend. Though inherently different, both songs test the boundary between complete chaos and skillful execution. The tracks feel full, but not crowded.

Much of this album relies on the music to narrate feelings. “I hope one day we’ll meet again / I hope you won’t forget my name,” emotions seem to flow through the seamless electric guitar and the occasional bass line in “Memory(Trees).” It’s a secret message from an old lover, but it’s also a never-sent letter from an old friend. With just one prominent line, “You are my life / You are my love,” “Reach” is a distant murmur that never got spoken aloud. The infusion of ’60s psychedelic and ’80s voice synthesizer makes the song timeless and, to an extent, almost unreal.

Feeling stuck is not the norm for Inner Wave. When the pandemic forced everyone into lockdown, and having a longtime member departed from the band during that same period, Inner Wave had to step out of their comfort zone.

The result became Apoptosis — a tale of steadily leaving the past behind while still trying to figure it all out.