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Empty Skies

Empty Skies
EP by Visual Aid
Released	May 23, 2006 (2006-05-23)
Recorded	2005–2006
Studio	Various locations
Genre	Indietronica
Length	28:37
Label	Independent
Producer	Tyler Joseph

"Empty Skies" is the debut extended play (EP) by the indietronica band Visual Aid, released on May 23, 2006. Widely considered a landmark release in the evolution of electronic and indie music, the EP represents a fusion of sonic experimentation and emotional depth that few other records have achieved. With its combination of ethereal soundscapes, introspective lyrics, and innovative production techniques, "Empty Skies" has been lauded not only as a defining work of the 2000s but also as a timeless piece that continues to influence contemporary music.

The creation of "Empty Skies" marked a pivotal moment for Visual Aid, a band that emerged from Columbus, Ohio, in the early 2000s with a clear mission: to craft music that resonated on both an emotional and a cerebral level. At the time, the band consisted of Tyler Joseph, Chris Salih, and Nick Thomas, three musicians who brought together diverse influences ranging from indie rock to electronic music, creating a sound that was as innovative as it was emotionally charged. Their collective vision was to explore the boundaries of what music could express, both sonically and lyrically.

Recorded over the course of a year, "Empty Skies" was a product of both careful planning and spontaneous creativity. The band members approached the recording process with a determination to push themselves artistically, often experimenting with unconventional recording environments and techniques. Some tracks were laid down in makeshift studios set up in abandoned buildings, where the natural acoustics lent a haunting, almost otherworldly quality to the recordings. Other elements were captured in remote outdoor settings, with the ambient sounds of nature subtly woven into the fabric of the music. This approach not only shaped the unique sound of the EP but also reflected the band’s commitment to capturing the raw and unfiltered emotions that inspired the music.

Musically, "Empty Skies" is a rich tapestry of sounds and textures. The EP’s indietronica foundation is built on layers of lush synthesizers, shimmering guitars, and intricate beats, all meticulously arranged to create a sense of depth and space. Tyler Joseph’s vocals, often drenched in reverb and delay, float above the instrumental arrangements like a ghostly presence, delivering lyrics that are both poetic and enigmatic. The songs on "Empty Skies" explore themes of isolation, longing, and existential contemplation, with each track offering a different perspective on the human condition. From the hypnotic rhythms of "Wandering Shadows" to the haunting beauty of the title track "Empty Skies," the EP takes listeners on an emotional journey that is as introspective as it is expansive.

The release of "Empty Skies" was met with critical acclaim, with many reviewers praising the EP for its originality and emotional intensity. It was clear from the outset that Visual Aid had created something special—an EP that transcended the conventions of both indie rock and electronic music. Critics were quick to draw comparisons to other groundbreaking works, such as Radiohead’s "Kid A" and The Postal Service’s "Give Up," but it was also evident that Visual Aid had carved out their own unique space within the musical landscape. The EP’s ability to blend introspective songwriting with innovative production techniques set it apart from anything else that was being released at the time.

Over the years, "Empty Skies" has continued to grow in stature, its influence reverberating through the indie and electronic music scenes. The EP is often cited as a major inspiration by a new generation of artists who seek to explore the emotional and sonic possibilities of music. Its legacy is not just in its pioneering sound, but also in its approach to music-making—an approach that values authenticity, experimentation, and emotional honesty above all else.

In the broader context of Visual Aid’s career, "Empty Skies" represents the beginning of a journey that would see the band evolve and grow, even as it underwent significant lineup changes. Following the departure of Chris Salih and Nick Thomas, Tyler Joseph carried the torch of Visual Aid, later joined by Josh Dun in 2010. The duo would go on to build upon the foundation laid by "Empty Skies," creating music that continued to push the boundaries of genre and emotion.

Today, "Empty Skies" is regarded as a classic, not just for its musical achievements but for its enduring ability to connect with listeners on a deeply personal level. It remains a testament to the power of music to evoke emotions, tell stories, and challenge the listener’s perceptions.Whether experienced as a whole or in individual tracks, "Empty Skies" offers a profound and moving journey that continues to resonate with audiences nearly two decades after its release.

Background

Visual Aid emerged in the early 2000s, quickly establishing themselves as pioneers of the indietronica genre. Their ability to blend organic and synthetic sounds created a unique auditory experience that set them apart from other acts in the indie scene. The band’s early live performances were known for their minimalist yet powerful visual aesthetics, further amplifying the emotional depth of their music.

"Empty Skies" was recorded during a year-long period, with the band utilizing both traditional studios and makeshift recording environments. These unconventional spaces contributed to the EP's distinctive sound, characterized by its lush, atmospheric layers and intricate electronic arrangements.

Musical style, writing, composition

The musical style of "Empty Skies" is a fusion of indietronica, dream pop, and experimental elements. The EP is characterized by its ethereal soundscapes, driven by lush synthesizers, layered vocals, and intricate electronic beats. Visual Aid's approach to songwriting is deeply introspective, exploring themes of isolation, longing, and the human condition.

Each track on the EP weaves together melodic hooks with complex arrangements, creating an immersive listening experience. The lyrics, primarily penned by lead vocalist Tyler Joseph, are poetic and abstract, often leaving interpretation open to the listener. The band’s use of reverb-drenched guitars and minimalist percussion adds to the atmospheric quality of the music, making "Empty Skies" a standout in the indietronica genre.

Recording, production

"Empty Skies" was recorded between 2005 and 2006, with sessions taking place in both professional studios and unconventional locations. Visual Aid was known for their experimental approach to sound, often recording in spaces that naturally enhanced the EP’s ambient qualities, such as empty warehouses and forested areas.

The production, handled by the band with Tyler Joseph as co-producer, was meticulous, with every sound carefully crafted to serve the overall mood of the EP. The use of analog synthesizers, vintage drum machines, and field recordings added texture and depth to the music. The band also embraced imperfections, allowing the occasional background noise or tape hiss to remain in the final mix, which contributed to the organic feel of the record.

Artwork, packaging

The artwork for "Empty Skies" was designed by former member Chris Salih.

The physical packaging of the EP was designed with a minimalist aesthetic in mind. The CD came in a matte digipak with a booklet that included abstract art pieces and cryptic handwritten lyrics. The limited vinyl edition was pressed on translucent blue vinyl, further emphasizing the EP's ethereal themes. The packaging was praised for its attention to detail and its ability to enhance the overall experience of the music.

Release, promotion, marketing

"Empty Skies" was released independently on May 23, 2006. The band’s decision to self-release the EP allowed them full creative control over the project, from production to marketing. Despite the lack of a major label backing, "Empty Skies" garnered significant attention through word of mouth and online buzz.

Visual Aid took an unconventional approach to promotion, eschewing traditional media outlets in favor of a grassroots campaign. The band released cryptic teaser videos and snippets of tracks on their website and social media, creating an air of mystery around the EP. This strategy piqued the interest of indie music blogs and online communities, leading to widespread anticipation prior to the release.

The EP was also promoted through a series of intimate listening parties in select cities, where fans could experience the music in a setting designed to reflect the EP’s haunting atmosphere. These events, coupled with the band’s enigmatic public persona, helped to build a devoted fanbase and solidify "Empty Skies" as a cult classic.

Touring

Following the release of "Empty Skies," Visual Aid embarked on a small, highly curated tour to promote the EP. Rather than performing at traditional concert venues, the band chose unique locations that resonated with the themes of the EP, including abandoned theaters, old churches, and outdoor spaces under the night sky.

The live performances were immersive, with the band incorporating visual projections, ambient lighting, and other multimedia elements to create a fully sensory experience. These shows were as much about the atmosphere as they were about the music, with the band often performing behind screens or in silhouette, further enhancing their mystique.

The "Empty Skies" tour was a critical success, with many attendees describing the experience as transcendent. The limited number of shows and the unique venues only added to the EP’s allure, making it a sought-after live experience among fans.

Critical reception

Professional ratings

Aggregate scores
Source	Rating
AnyDecentMusic?	89/100
Metacritic	98/100
Review scores
Source	Rating
Pitchfork	9/10
Rolling Stone	10/10

Upon its release, "Empty Skies" received widespread critical acclaim. It was praised for its forward-thinking production, emotive lyrics, and the seamless integration of electronic and indie elements. Critics hailed it as a pivotal release in the evolution of indietronica, comparing its impact to genre-defining works like The Postal Service's "Give Up" and M83's "Before the Dawn Heals Us."

Rolling Stone called "Empty Skies" "a revolutionary EP that sets the gold standard for modern electronic music," while Pitchfork described it as "a hauntingly beautiful exploration of sound that feels both intimate and expansive."

Track listing

No.	Title	Length
1.	"Glowing Eyes"	4:26
2.	"Anathema"	3:59
3.	"Slowtown"	4:57

20th Anniversary Edition

No.	Title	Length
1.	"Glowing Eyes"	4:26
2.	"Anathema"	3:59
3.	"Slowtown"	4:57
4.	"Ode to Sleep"	3:23

Personnel

•  Tyler Joseph
•  Josh Dun

Additional musicians

•  Nick Thomas
•  Chris Salih

Charts

Chart (1997)	Peak position
Australian Albums (ARIA)	37
Norwegian Albums (VG-lista)	40

Certifications

Region	Certification	Certified units/Sales
Summaries
*sales figures based on certification alone ^shipments figures based on certification alone ‡sales+streaming figures based on certification alone

Release history

Region	Date	Label	Format	Catalog

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