Realism by Brendan Byrnes | Mastering

All tracks performed, produced, engineered, and mixed by Brendan Byrnes.

Mastered by Daniel Eaton at Little Castle Mastering.

Artwork by Michael Day.

Byrnes’ 4th microtonal solo album continues his exploration of xenharmonic tuning systems within a rock and pop framework, using mostly 22 EDO but also employing 27 EDO, 15 EDO, and 12 EDO. The driving force on the album is the vocals, swarmed by microtonal electric guitars and colorful synths creating thick, intricate textures punctured by kinetic rhythms. There are echoes of ILEVENS and past solo albums here, but Realism leans more into accessible, singable pop territory. Not every song is overtly microtonal; some tracks highlight the more consonant resources in the chosen tuning systems, allowing the more xenharmonic moments to jump out in contrast.

Special thanks to Metatonal Music for the 22 EDO guitars and bass, and to H-Pi Instruments for making it possible to re-tune synthesizers to microtonal tunings.

Extra special thanks and love to Bekah Brandes and my family and friends.

Thank you very much for listening and for the support!