You Call It Magic, I Call It Classic: Archpalatine’s Transition Period is another exciting, eclectic set

Philly songwriter Derek Anthony Wilson caught our attention with his Archpalatine project last year, releasing a theatrical debut called Amalgam that called to mind Queen, Hozier, and any number of high-drama artists in between.

Archpalatine’s new EP Transition Period is out today, and true to its title, marks a shift in sonics for Wilson and his bandmates — but not in their exciting eclecticism. The title track leads off with warped electronic beats, crafting a surreal atmosphere before resounding piano chords and a midtempo beat enters, Wilson’s bold baritone guiding the way.

“UFO” is both operatic and contemporary, leading with a big-throated a cappella before glidingh into a beat adorned with trap and bass textures, propping up a fiercely rapped delivery. Elsewhere, the closing “Way With Worlds” leans hard into modern gospel with the assistance of Danny Newport on vocals.

Listen to Transition Period below; its funky and fun lead single “Riding And Rolling” is also available on Bandcamp, and can be purchased here for the streaming site’s fee-free Friday.