The good news is that Serj Tankian will release a new EP called Perplex Cities on October 21, and is now streaming a new single called "Pop Imperialism." The more interesting news is that Tankian is streaming the single exclusively in a virtual reality app called Arloopa. The concept behind the VR experience is pretty cool – Tankian joins listeners for a look around the video and provides an explanation of both the visuals and the song itself. On the flip side, it does limit the audience for the single a little bit (if you're unwilling to download an app)… at least until the EP hits streaming services.
"This whole collection of songs within Perplex Cities is a completely different sound than what I’ve done before," said Tankian about the Perplex Cities EP. "More electronic, subtle and deeper in terms of its layers of presentation musically. Perplex Cities gives off an aura that is unique and unlike my previous releases."
On the choice to stream the new single via VR, Tankian said "I'm always trying to create new and interesting ways to connect with people via my music. We made some amazing videos for the last EP Elasticity, so I wanted to try something different for Perplex Cities. I love the idea of appearing in the room with someone listening to my music. It’s intimate, fun, and different."
Can't fault the guy for trying something new, right? Check out Arloopa here as well as Tankian's explanation of the single and video below.
Tankian will also debut his paintings at Stephanie’s Gallery in the Los Angeles area on October 9 at an event titled Shapeshift – a dynamic dive into diversity. The event runs through November 1 and uses compositions created by Tankian and – surprise – more VR experiences through Arloopa.
