Album Review: Aqua Phonic - Marko Polo

Mark Pagano, also known as Marko Polo, is a singer-songwriter and teaching artist from St Louis, Missouri. His catchy tunes and intriguing themes have enabled him to connect with families throughout the world. Mark has also amassed a considerable amount of media coverage over the years, and deservedly so, as he is one of the hardest working musicians in the genre.

"Aqua Phonic" is his second release as a solo artist, and as the title suggests features amongst other things a range of songs celebrating the impact water has on our overall wellbeing. Essentially a concept album, where we get to "Follow the Water" on an intriguing journey of melody and imagination.

The opening track "We Are Water" is fairly funky, with bass and drums sparring with an electric piano in true seventies fashion. The groove is infectious, with perhaps shades of Steely Dan on display, as the lyrics highlight the importance of water with an almost scientific expertise. The main appeal of the song lies in its anthemic chorus a real standout, effectively informing a sceptical populace as to how 'we've got to respect it'. 

"Axolotl" describes this extraordinary amphibian in all its glory with a sound somewhat reminiscent of the Pixies, with its driving bass line and Kim Deal type harmonies.  The lyrics elaborate on both the appearance and wellbeing of this salamander, with the chorus belted out with as catchy a refrain as you are ever likely to hear.

If any of you goths out there are wondering, the answer is no, "Sirenia" doesn't refer to the innovative rock band from Norway, but instead describes this interesting mammal that inhabits 'an ocean of possibilities'. The song has more of a reggae feel, but this time speeded up with a tight percussive bass and drums providing the necessary space for the jabbing keyboard to really cut through.

The artist then transports us to the "Bottom Of The Ocean", where we get to hear about creatures that 'glow in the darkness'. Again, the rhythm is quite tight and percussive with inspired lyrics that help us experience 'the glow in your soul'. A very original song that floats in and out of your conscious mind, mesmerising the listener with cool expertise.

"Coral" is quite dreamy and almost psychedelic in its approach. Introducing a clean guitar, and the type of sound effects that beautifully capture this dreamlike scene. This time, we get to hear descriptive verse in true poetic fashion, where the word coral is sung repeatedly amongst an array of instrumentation that delights the senses throughout. 

"Walrus Sings" in true Beach Boys style, features scintillating harmonies alongside an 'unforgettable melody' and a driving bass line. Sharp, succinct and to the point, the song also features a sweeping lead vocal which glides across the track providing the required singalong hook. Marvellous!

"Follow The Water" does exactly that, as we get to embark on this musical journey, where an eighties sounding drum pattern propels the song forward as the music glistens and shines in true aquatic style. About half way through the arrangement we are treated to the arrival of the sublime vocals of Claudia Robin Gunn adding further charming overtones to the song. The song has a nice laid-back groove, with an acoustic guitar taking centre stage, as the music ebbs and flows in a kind of exotic flourish.

Last but by no means least, "Drip Drop" glitters and sparkles throughout, with its clean guitar, bouncy rhythm, and crystal clear vocals. The somewhat restless arrangement continues to surprise as the music shifts in different directions throughout the song. The music further benefits from an infectious melody, adding a certain cerebral and intoxicating charm throughout.

An interesting album, where the artist manages to transport the listener into a dreamlike state, where the unfathomable power of water is relished and celebrated in true poetic style. The musical approach reminded me a little of one of my favourite Australian bands Spikey and Friends, who made just one seminal album before sadly disappearing. Marvellous work throughout, I look forward to hearing more from this superb artist in the future.

Marko Polo - a drop in the ocean.