Owen Pallett Review

Anybody who says new music is dead has never heard of Owen Pallett, better known as the band Final Fantasy.

Pallett is the solo artist behind the massive sound Final Fantasy brings to the indie music scene.

Using his own recording and looping software, Pallett creates a sound that seems like five band members are accompanying him, but in reality, he is playing every instrument.

"Heartland," the third studio album from Pallett, is the first to actually be released under his own name to avoid any more confusion (as well as copyright issues) with the video game of the same name.

The primary concept of the album revolves around heavy use of violin, looping in keyboards, organs, xylophones and a variety of other stringed instruments that the accomplished Pallett can play.

His music knowledge is revealed like a story on "Heartland" and exhibits every aspect of his technical skills.

Pallet is a graduate from the University of Toronto with a degree in honors music theory, which is evident upon first listen.

He has worked with other indie rock musicians such as Grizzly Bear, Arctic Monkeys, Death From Above, 1979 and most recently, the London Metropolitan Orchestra.

At first listen, "Heartland" sounds like a crazy soundtrack to some foreign movie, but delve deeper and you will find the passion and creativity that is incorporated into every track.

Pallett's voice never grates on the nerves, the music never ceases to stop changing and the beats never stop thumping with your heart.

"Heartland" is a wonderfully crafted masterpiece of thought and emotion.

And for those wondering if the same sound can be reenacted in a live show, be prepared, because if you think the album is good, imagine watching Pallett at work.