Max Epstein’s “I look at her and light goes all through me”: A Deep Dive
A Visual Feast: The Music Video for “I Heard You”
The music video for “I Heard You” is an overstimulating spectacle, blending elements like grills, guitars, Auto-Tune, and surreal CS:GO gameplay footage. The chaotic visuals are a sensory overload, reminiscent of an A24 film’s take on corecore aesthetics. It features a whirlwind of flashing lights, shooting guns, and eerie skeletons, all captured through scuzzy CCTV shots. This digital debris serves as a fitting introduction to the mastermind behind the project, Max Epstein.
The Man Behind the Music
Max Epstein is a Los Angeles-based workaholic whose impressive credentials often overshadow his own artistic endeavors. He has lent his guitar skills to notable acts such as Jane Remover and quannnic and has produced for rising stars like daine and Blair. Despite the extensive list of collaborations, Epstein’s solo work feels like a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
His Latest Masterpiece: “I look at her and light goes all through me”
Epstein’s latest and most ambitious LP, the 18-track “I look at her and light goes all through me,” is a remarkable blend of genres that showcases his talents as both a guitarist and a producer. This feature-rich, genre-defying album stretches across 30 minutes of frenetic energy, presenting a collage of sounds that mirror the chaotic visuals of the music video. It is a cathartic experience, a tapestry of fragmented ideas that coalesce into an exhilarating whole.
Documenting Downtime: The Creative Process
While Epstein’s schedule is undeniably packed, “I look at her” offers a glimpse into his downtime—moments spent experimenting with old demos, jamming during tours, and dreaming in studio spaces. His role often involves guiding others to find their unique voices, but his body of work reveals a long-standing quest to define his own sound.
A Journey Through Sound
Starting his musical journey as Photographic Memory in 2014, Epstein’s early works were characterized by hazy slowcore reminiscent of low-budget acts like Duster. As his career progressed, so did his musical style. His 2018 mixtape, “Everything Nice,” compiled fleeting bedroom demos, while his 2021 self-titled LP showcased a fuller sound without abandoning his signature melancholic themes.
Visual Identity and Artistic Evolution
Although it’s unwise to judge an album solely by its cover, Epstein’s aesthetic has often implied a more understated presence within the music scene. The cover art for his self-titled LP, with its dusky, out-of-focus imagery, suggests a young artist still navigating the shadows of his influences.
Not a Comeback, But a Celebration of Complexity
“I look at her” is not a triumphant return for Epstein; instead, it encapsulates his defining traits—his production skill, his preference for collaboration, and his reluctance for the spotlight. The album serves as a vivid snapshot of the evolving digital music landscape in 2025, where diverse elements like producer tags, power chords, and live instruments converge in a harmonious chaos.
Highlighting Collaborative Brilliance
One of the standout tracks, “Heartsyle,” features Wisp delivering a captivating performance over an Epstein-produced plugg beat. This collaboration exemplifies the delightful oddities that permeate the album. Another gem, “Recently,” features Gucci Mane rapping “Woppenheimer” over what initially sounds like a discarded demo, eventually revealing its underlying beauty upon repeated listens.
Epstein’s Evolving Vocal Approach
Epstein’s vocal performance on this album is more commanding than ever. His voice, likened to that of a lonely android, finds new dimensions within the varied textures of the tracks. The digi-rock anthem “Clearly” showcases a dynamic interplay between soft acoustic elements and pulsating beats, creating a push-and-pull that elevates the listening experience.
Exploring Diverse Soundscapes
Within “I look at her,” there’s something for every listener: the glitchy emotional depth of “Emo Tour Track” contrasts with the aggressive energy of “Love in My Heart.” Epstein effortlessly merges his identities as a singer, producer, and curator, culminating in a project that exemplifies his unique artistic vision.
Conclusion
Max Epstein’s “I look at her and light goes all through me” is a multifaceted exploration of sound and identity, reflecting both his artistic evolution and the chaotic beauty of contemporary music. It stands as a testament to his capabilities and serves as an invitation for listeners to engage with the rich tapestry of his work. As he continues to carve out his niche in the music world, Epstein proves that even in a saturated landscape, there is always room for innovation and personal expression.
FAQs
Who is Max Epstein?
Max Epstein is a Los Angeles-based musician and producer known for his collaborations with various artists and his solo work under the name Photographic Memory.
What is the concept behind the music video for “I Heard You”?
The music video features an array of overstimulating visuals, including flashing lights and chaotic digital imagery, which reflect the frenetic energy of the song and Epstein’s artistic vision.
What can listeners expect from the album “I look at her and light goes all through me”?
Listeners can expect a genre-defying experience that blends elements of nu-gaze, SoundCloud rap, and various other influences, resulting in a chaotic yet cathartic listening journey.
How does Epstein’s vocal style differ on this album?
Epstein’s vocals on this album sound stronger and more commanding, benefiting from the varied production textures that allow his voice to shine.
What are some standout tracks from the album?
Notable tracks include “Heartsyle,” featuring Wisp, and “Recently,” featuring Gucci Mane, both of which showcase the album’s unique blend of sounds and collaborations.
