Pretty happy with where you are in life? Do the contents of your wallet define you? Are you as cool as those dancers on television because you wear the same khakis? If so, keep it up; it seems everything is working out great for you. If not, you may want to check out Naked Sunrise. After three years of reclusive work in the studio, Nikhil emerges to deliver his long awaited, mammoth album Naked Sunrise to the masses. Playing and recording all the instruments himself, the guitar prodigy creates an intricate and beautiful work. Written and recorded only in the dark and blissful hours of the night after two in the morning, the music is the result of sleep-deprived supernovas of passionate improvisation. Naked Sunrise is more than an album it is an experience. It’s unconventional song structures take you through a plethora of styles, sounds, images and textures. Pop melodies and virtuosity combine to make even the most progressive music accessible. The gorgeously poetic lyrics are expressed through highly emotive vocals that range from effect laced to tender and human. Largely a concept album, metaphors, clues and literary references abound in the lyrics, song titles, music, and artwork. The songs flow into each other like waves building in intensity. Melodies and lyrics are cleverly quoted in different songs with new instruments and textures, tying the cryptic message together even more. The designs and cover art are striking and beautiful. They hold the keys to understanding the concept along with the music. It is pleasantly surprising and rare, especially nowadays, to find well-crafted and meaningful artwork. The contrast between the direct music and the mystery behind the album is what makes it truly compelling. Whether you want to dissect every aspect of the music and artwork to see how it ties into the concept or want to wake up to the title track and spend your day immersed in a sea of beautiful melodies, Nikhil’s Naked Sunrise will leave you more than satisfied it will leave you breathless.