Written by Adrian Jade Francisco It is as certain as gravity that the local electronic ecosystem is an infinite realm. Alongside the likes of U-Pistol, Kindred, and LONER, Arkyalina is in his own separate reality. The opening of “Ersatz” uploads his shoegaze-infused digital soundscape domain onto your ears, fading into a cacophonous surge of guitar riffs. Tavin Villanueva’s multi-instrumental ability delivers intricate layers of sounds, where each section of the song is a resonating immersion that grooves vigorously through the gateways of your senses. As the banger chorus hits, Arkyalina’s intense vocals are on display in the background, which feels like a desperate scream to be heard as this “ersatz.” Filled with atmospheric strings and samples that enriches the color of the punching resonance. On top of that, Arkyalina and Kashira’s Calix’s mixing production is a seasoning that gives a full-flavor to this delicacy, leaving no ingredient undercooked for the listener to savor. Arkyalina’s diverse musical talent continues to remain evident, fusing a spectrum of ideas into a seamless alternative pop finesse. Once you hear those melodies, the layers of vocals and instruments, it is a magnet that draws you to come back and listen. “Ersatz” further lays groundwork for Arkyalina as an artist, keeping us anticipated on what the shoegaze electronic cyberpsycho will release next.