Ali Awan releases iridescent new EP Moon Mode

Just as the moon goes through different phases, so does Ali Awan on his new EP. Released through the local label Born Losers, Moon Mode shows the Philadelphia artist as ever-changing. From twilight-tinged riffs to illuminating synths, the EP possesses the same magic and radiance as the full moon. 

Otherworldly, Mood Mode is the summation of his emotional state over the past 12 months. Songs like “Dogs of Fire” are groovy and feature glistening guitars that give it an irradiance ambiance. On the title track, which was inspired by Nina Simone’s “Sinnerman,” Awan delves into dim percussion and shadowy vocals. “Climb” falls somewhere in the middle as he discusses the gradual process of getting out of an emotional ditch. 

In a statement, Awan described Moon Mode as a collection of songs that are varied in style but cohesive in emotion. “It goes from dark to light as a whole with the tracklisting, some songs are dry, some songs are drenched in reverb, and I’m glad I got to work with a few other musicians on this batch. Collaboration is helping me hear things differently, and that’s what I’ve been trying to do in my day-to-day life as well.”  

You can stream the full EP below and pick up a tape from his Bandcamp. Ali Awan will play a release show at Sunflower Philly on June 18; advance tickets are sold out, but limited tickets may be available for walk up day of show, more information can be found here.