The fifth album from St. Lucia (Jean-Philip Grobler and his wife Patti Beranek) is a dramatic departure from the band's past work, expanding their sound with ambitious strokes and a sense of epic scale. With a vast array of influences, Fata Morgana: Dawn draws from 1960s and 1970s psychedelic pop, the pre-80s NYC dance scene, and the cinematic sweep of classic film scores, delivering a sound that feels both timeless and future forward.

“I didn’t set out to make an epic album,” Grobler admits, “but as we progressed, it became clear that we needed to reach for something bigger than we had before.” Recorded with a live band at the core, Fata Morgana: Dawn is a soaring, expansive piece of work, heightened by orchestral strings that elevate the record into new realms. It’s a sound that reflects both intimate connection and grand ambition, with Grobler drawing on his lifelong love of music from the past while pushing his own limits. “It’s something different and new for us,” he says. And he wants you to come along for the ride.

The album’s single, “In The Light,” dives into the seductive allure of charismatic figures and their ability to mesmerize, exploring the psychology behind the cult of personality. Grobler muses, “We see versions of this all around us today, where someone comes along and provides clarity in the modern haze. But you shouldn’t sell yourself out to gurus - you need to listen to your heart.” Fata Morgana: Dawn is more than just a single moment though. With songs like “Rolling Man,” a pulsating, arena-ready anthem, and “Campari Lips & Soda,” a dreamy collaboration with pop duo Aly & AJ, the album takes listeners on an unsuspecting journey. “Pie In The Sky” is a soaring track about growth and transformation, while “Fear Of Falling,” inspired by the birth of Grobler’s son, explores the fleeting nature of life. The album’s real standout just may be “Falling Asleep,” which has earned praise as a disco-inspired spiritual quest, drawing comparisons to David Bowie and Ennio Morricone.