Some albums arrive like a gentle whisper, others make their presence known like a storm rolling in from the horizon. King of Clouds, the second full-length release from Harvest Runes, does both. It is an introspective and adventurous journey that showcases James Anthony Wolff’s evolution as a composer, performer, and producer. Built upon years of writing and recording, this album feels like the culmination of a lifetime of work, one that transforms solitude into a cinematic experience.
Blending elements of alternative indie-rock, electronica, and orchestral composition, King of Clouds crafts a dreamlike soundscape that oscillates between the intimate and the epic. Wolff’s use of layered synths, intricate counterpoint, and lush string sections adds a striking depth to the album, pushing beyond conventional indie-pop boundaries. Unlike the more collaborative nature of his debut, Eyes Like Stars, this album is a solo endeavor, shaped by a personal yet universally resonant longing, one that reflects on impermanence, ambition, and the search for something greater.
At its core, King of Clouds is about the transience of people, of artistic pursuits, and of dreams that dissipate like vapor. The album’s title serves as an apt metaphor for Wolff’s experiences with band-building efforts that never quite took flight, leading him to embrace an almost entirely solitary creative process.
But it’s the title track, “Fast Maneuvers,” anchors the album, its sweeping orchestration and poignant lyrics encapsulating the duality of hope and disillusionment. It’s a song that feels both triumphant and reflective, a reminder that even unattainable dreams leave behind something lasting.
Dedicated to his family and the belief that music can leave a lasting legacy, King of Clouds is an artistic statement of perseverance. In an era where music is often disposable, this record demands to be experienced in full.
Rating: 9/10
