Dreamscapes of Sound

John Leslie’s latest single, Dream, is an audacious voyage into the intersections of music, culture, and consciousness. From the very first notes, the track immediately signals its expansive ambition: the resonance of the sitar, performed by Brisbane-based virtuoso Sudha Manian, weaves seamlessly with traditional rock instrumentation, while the propulsive drumming of Jackie James Barnes gives the composition a grounded, almost hypnotic momentum. There’s a delicate tension here—between the familiar and the exotic—that keeps the listener enthralled, as if moving through a kaleidoscopic soundscape where every turn offers a new surprise.

What’s particularly striking about Dream is how it balances intricacy with emotional intimacy. The layered textures of Indian classical instruments don’t feel ornamental; they’re integral, carrying the philosophical weight of the song’s concept. Leslie’s approach to songwriting, inspired by Vedic ideas of the universe as a dream, manifests in a contemplative sound without ever being heavy-handed. There’s a meditative flow to the arrangement, yet it’s punctuated by bursts of rock energy that remind you this is a deeply human, visceral experience.

Recorded over twelve months across four studios, the production itself feels meticulous but organic. Each element—be it sitar, tabla, guitar, or percussion—has space to breathe, resulting in a track that is both expansive and intimate. Dream isn’t just a song; it’s a sensory exploration, a moment to pause, reflect, and get lost in music that dares to traverse borders, both geographic and spiritual. It’s a bold statement from John Leslie, signaling an artist unafraid to push boundaries.