Atanaria
Des Rocs’ Dream Machine is a bold, emotive rock album that cements his standing in modern rock with a fresh twist on classic elements. Released on August 25, 2023, the album brings together nine tracks that showcase his raw vocal talent and unique, gritty style.
The album’s title track, “Dream Machine,” kicks things off with an acapella introduction, quickly pulling listeners into an almost cinematic rock anthem reminiscent of Greta Van Fleet’s “Highway Tune.” This song captures the freedom and thrill of adventure, setting the album’s energetic tone.
“I Am The Lightning,” with its empowering guitar riff, is a standout with a strong cinematic feel, making it easy to imagine it as part of a high-stakes movie soundtrack. But “White Gold,” while well-structured, feels somewhat less impactful than other tracks, lacking the lyrical depth of its counterparts.
“Nowhere Kid” speaks to the outsider, with a rebellious beat and relatable lyrics that create a raw connection with listeners. “Never Ending Moment,” the album’s most-streamed track, is a high point. Its layered acoustic and electric instrumentation evoke a deep yearning to freeze meaningful moments in time. The heartfelt chorus and Des Rocs’ dynamic voice make it memorable.
With “Bad Blood,” Des Rocs taps into a classic rock vibe, reminiscent of the ’70s and ’80s, laced with a darker, mysterious undertone. The shift to “Natural Born Thriller” introduces a playful country-meets-rock fusion, giving the album an unexpected twist. Meanwhile, “In The Night” draws things back down, opening with a suspenseful, soft guitar intro that contrasts with the previous intensity, easing the listener toward the album’s close.
The final track, “Up to You,” is an acoustic love song that lets Des Rocs’ vocal abilities shine, bringing Dream Machine to a reflective and tender conclusion.
Overall, Dream Machine reveals new layers of Des Rocs’ artistry, blending vulnerability and strength in a way that is fresh and nostalgic. It’s an album worth exploring on any streaming platform and leaves listeners eagerly awaiting his next evolution.
