CD Astronauts Etc* – Living In Symbol

Living In Symbol is the captivating second studio album from Astronauts Etc. (the moniker of Oakland-based musician Anthony Ferraro). Released in 2018 on Company Records, this CD edition showcases Ferraro’s evolution from Toro Y Moi’s touring keyboardist to a master of his own distinct, highly stylized vision.

Described as "Sunday morning music," the album is a masterclass in atmospheric production, blending 1970s Laurel Canyon singer-songwriter influences with smooth, jazzy textures and a hazy, lo-fi dreaminess. Ferraro’s delicate falsetto guides listeners through a "sonic velvet" landscape that balances easy-listening vibes with occasionally stark, distressed lyrical themes.

Key Highlights:

• "The Room": A rich, highly textured track that oozes from the speakers like a lava lamp.
• "Symbol Land": An intriguing opener with Albarn-esque vocals and Blur-inspired melodies.
• "The Border": A smooth, bass-led groove featuringLeonard Cohen-style delivery.
• "Who I Talk To": A "long-lost love song" featuring spidery guitar lines and a playful, Paul McCartney-inspired drive.

Perfect for fans of Toro Y Moi, Whitney, and BADBADNOTGOOD, this album is a poised, coherent piece of art that invites the listener to either relax into its "West Coast" warmth or examine its deeper, Lynchian intricacies.