In the tranquil embrace of Ojai’s mountains, Istanbul-based virtuoso Han ERYILMAZ, known as Barista, breathes life into his latest opus, “Goodbye Heaven.” This album is not just a collection of songs; it is a testament to Barista’s unwavering dedication to authenticity. Eschewing the transient allure of mainstream trends, Barista crafts music that is both a mirror and a window, reflecting collective and personal human experiences through poignant lyrics and intricate melodies that resonate deeply.
“Goodbye Heaven” is a symphony of collaboration. Legendary drummer Simon Phillips lends his iconic rhythm, while Jesse Siebenberg of Supertramp weaves multi-instrumental magic. Singer-songwriter Mariami’s soulful vocals harmonize with the deep grooves of bassist Bob Glaub. The keyboard landscapes painted by David Delhomme and Jeff Babko, combined with the vocal textures of Rudiger and Kyle Tkatch, create a rich auditory tapestry, all meticulously engineered by Jason Mariani. Together, they conjure a sound that is as soul-stirring as it is distinct.
Barista’s music is a conduit for emotion, translating the intangible into the tangible, offering listeners an escape from the cacophony of pop culture. His songs invite us to lose ourselves in each note and lyric, addressing global crises such as injustice, inequality, oppression, violence, and political corruption, as well as intimate struggles like “the soul’s famine.” Conceived during the tumultuous years of 2022 and 2023, Barista meticulously curated 11 tracks from an initial 35, recording them over three intense weeks at Carbonite Sound in Ojai and Phillips’ home studio, followed by a meticulous three-month post-production process.
In an era rife with superficiality, Barista’s work stands out for its profound depth and sincerity. Riding the wave of success from “Justice Now,” which soared to #2 on the UK Rock charts, “Goodbye Heaven,” produced by the venerable Simon Phillips, promises to transcend expectations with its unique sound.
From the opening note, “Goodbye Heaven” envelops the listener in an immersive experience. The synergy between Barista and Phillips is palpable, with melodies that are rich and insightful, and lyrics that linger long after the music fades. By the album’s end, we are left with a profound connection to Barista’s inner world, a realm where music is not merely heard but deeply felt. “Goodbye Heaven” is a masterful exploration of introspection and depth, inviting us to delve into the complex layers of the human experience and emerge transformed.
