Relentless Beats

EDM Origins: Autolaser

I was a bit late to the EDM game. I knew of massive 2010’s Skrillex hits like “Bangarang” and “Scary Monsters and Nice Sprites,” but that was about it. That is… until I discovered the music of Norwegian producer Autolaser. The first song of his that I discovered was the 2014 release “Need You.” Shortly followed by “About Face” (feat. FATHERDUDE) and “ANENI” (feat. Jack Shaw.) Autolaser’s catchy melodies have lived rent-free in my head since first hearing them. His masterful layering and eye for detail made a lasting impression. His sound was a major introduction to the genre and all it has to offer. Cementing my future music taste for years to come.

“Need You” is a super melodic jam with a whistling intro and reverberating clap effects. The tempo gradually ramps up, dropping us into a vivid sea of melody with shimmering waves. These two elements collide. Joining forces to create even more melody. Bells and chimes split up the rolling drops, painted with a distinct bassline on the back end. The waves contract, creating a euphoric bridge that brings back the whistling hook. The melody soars to new heights, brought down to earth by an intense drum fill. Bells and chimes continue to ring out. Effortlessly going back to the introduction and fading out. “Need You” has been solidified as one of my all time favorite EDM tracks. A sentimental discovery that has stuck with me for over a decade.

“Hiding From The Rain” is an emotional collaboration between Autolaser, PLS&TY and vocals courtesy of MARØ. The song starts out with humming vocals and a quiet introduction. MARØ’s vocals break through the fog with a soulful R&B Vibe:

“All that I can say is every night I stay awake. I chase the thought of you, until I’m running from the pain. And all that I can do is work the evening until noon. Never thought I need to trade who I love for what I..”

The narrator is experiencing intense insomnia and racing thoughts about the one he loves. Even to the point of madness and toxicity. Only running away when it is too late. Describing their situation as “hiding from the rain” as the relationship fallout continues.

Melodic clicks and light drum taps keep the rhythm as the track builds. MARØ’s vocals grow even more soulful. Thinking of the love interest described in the lyrics above. Admitting that he would “give it all up for you, darling.” Tapping drums and dazzling synths help to bring in the sweeping drop. A goosebumps inducing melody surrounded by lasers and spirals. A fuzzy, distorted hum takes over. Guided by the drums and bassline. The drop then shifts gears. The humming undertones grow more intense, matching the bending and snapping frequencies of the track. This change up is an example of. Autolaser’s masterful sound design. The next verse features metaphors about ghosts, masks, and sinking houses. All used to describes aspects of this intense relationship. This leads into the final drop, which switches up AGAIN! Demonstrating Autolaser’s serious sound design skills and ending the track on a high note.

Autolaser’s discography still hold up after nearly a decade. The old songs slap even harder with my increased knowledge and exposure to the EDM genre. Autolaser has released numerous singles since I last listened to him around 2017. He also released a new album and an EP in 2018 and 2019 respectively. Autolaser has been on a brief hiatus since 2019, putting a lot of effort into a mysterious new side project. Here is hoping to the grand return of Autolaser.

“Afraid to know the truth, that this house was made of sand. Never know how far I go to take it all right back again.”

Connect with Autolaser: Facebook | Instagram | X | Spotify | SoundCloud

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