“As a teenager back in 2015, Omar Banos – known as Cuco – emerged with a tender voice and atmospheric, introspective bedroom pop. While this second album is rooted in exploring his inner world, it also finds the Mexican American singer-songwriter and producer more exacting in his sound. Occasionally, things can feel a little sanguine. The narration on the opening track framing this as a concept alb”
“Cuco’s twinkling synth melodies wrap you up in his simulation pop. Combining elements of psychedelia and indie rock with influences from his Latinx heritage, Fantasy Gateway feels like stepping into a brave new world. Cuco is disconnecting himself from his reality and this dreamy, bass propelled record lets us see what is behind his closed eyes. It’s almost impossible to not draw comparisons with”
“The bedroom-pop breakout star steps up his craft on his second album, experimenting with a bigger, more opulently produced sound, but his emotional attunement remains key to his appeal.”
