Skeleten's Mentalized is a reflective and expansive album, building on the immersive, lush sound of Russell Fitzgibbon's 2023 debut Under Utopia, while diving deeper into the complexities of connection and influence. Where Under Utopia celebrated hope and beauty, Mentalized explores the struggles that accompany that hope, asking profound questions about the nature of mental influence-both in our personal lives and in the wider world.Opening with "Deep Scene," the album invites listeners into a dynamic and introspective soundscape, blending ethereal synths, sharp guitar riffs, and velvet vocals. The album balances playfulness and seriousness, encouraging the listener to dance while grappling with deep emotions. Tracks like "Love Enemy" and "Viagra" exemplify Russell's seamless fusion of electronic textures with human vulnerability, as he examines themes of intimacy, self-awareness, and the tension between resistance and submission in relationships.The sonic evolution of Mentalized is evident in it's collaborative nature, with bandmates Al, Hugh, Doug, and Imo bringing fresh energy to Russell's vision. The album mixes trip-hop, nu-metal, and turntable scratches, paying homage to an era of electronic music while pushing into new territory. Songs like "These People" and "Raw" layer hypnotic synths and intricate guitar lines, revealing a deeper emotional scope as the record progresses.With Mentalized, Skeleten offers a meditation on modern life, relationships, and the unspoken forces that shape us. The record's mantras, emotional depth, and Russell's masterful storytelling create a compelling, multi-dimensional listening experience that stays with you long after the final track.