Death Valley

From the vibrant heart of Los Angeles' beat scene, Astronautica’s *Death Valley*, released on August 24, 2018, stands as a profound testament to Edrina Martinez’s artistic evolution. This album solidifies her unique position as a producer and multi-instrumentalist, further refining the signature blend of dreamy electronic soundscapes, intricate hip-hop rhythms, and indie sensibilities that have garnered her widespread acclaim. *Death Valley* invites listeners into a sonic expanse that is both celestial and deeply grounded, mirroring the paradoxical beauty of its namesake....

From the vibrant heart of Los Angeles' beat scene, Astronautica’s *Death Valley*, released on August 24, 2018, stands as a profound testament to Edrina Martinez’s artistic evolution. This album solidifies her unique position as a producer and multi-instrumentalist, further refining the signature blend of dreamy electronic soundscapes, intricate hip-hop rhythms, and indie sensibilities that have garnered her widespread acclaim. *Death Valley* invites listeners into a sonic expanse that is both celestial and deeply grounded, mirroring the paradoxical beauty of its namesake. Across its meticulously crafted tracks, *Death Valley* showcases Astronautica's mastery in weaving pensive, muffled rhythms with gratifyingly complicated melodies. Building upon her earlier works, this album sees Martinez push the boundaries of her sound, seamlessly integrating live instrumentation – notably her electric guitar – with her sophisticated electronic production. The result is a rich, layered experience that evokes vast, contemplative landscapes while maintaining a compelling intimacy. Her ability to filter diverse inspirations, from the raw energy of Nirvana to the pioneering electronic work of Flying Lotus, into her own luminous and mellowed-out sound is fully realized here, creating an abstract painting come to life, a "cosmic soup" of influences. *Death Valley* is more than just a collection of songs; it represents a significant chapter in Astronautica’s journey, demonstrating her growth as an artist who consistently innovates within the electronic music sphere. It captures the essence of her lauded live performances, where her dynamism has been noted by critics for its captivating fusion of live chords and intricate beats. This album reinforces her reputation as a powerful force and a trailblazer, continuing to pave the way for women in the beat scene while contributing to what SPIN has described as "soul music’s in-progress electronic evolution." It remains a vital and enduring work in her distinguished discography.