We’re excited to introduce TRANSCOASTAL, the first release on
@pocket.of.light and the debut venture from
@charlesbals &
@normgrv__ —landing this April 2025.
A collection of 1981-1990 lush AOR and exotic jazz, weaving through the USA, South America, and Europe. We imagine it as the forgotten recording of an inspired session between M. Franks and M. Francis at Compass Point, Nassau.
In the words of Mario:
“ The idea was to create something that felt like an impression rather than just a compilation of tracks from a certain era or genre. In 2019, Norman and I talked about curating songs like a postcard—one corner capturing the neon glow of a resort, another a quiet sailboat in a Caribbean cove.
Not long after, Norm introduced me to Charles. They had been sharing references for a while and had already decided to collaborate. I was over the moon. We met in Düsseldorf, losing ourselves in the sounds of SORCERY & ONDA NUEVA, sketching the vision for this album.
And here we are. Grateful for my partners’ patience and thrilled to finally share TRANSCOASTAL with you.
A reminder to keep sailing, no matter the weather. Just beyond the horizon, there’s always a glimpse of paradise.
Love, light, and sand in your shoes,
Mario “
Credits
Production by
@mariogeeee for
@pocket.of.light
Selection by
@charlesbals &
@normgrv__
Creative Direction by
@charlesbals
Licensing & Coordination by
@normgrv__
Jack of all trades & facilitator
@probablysean
Mastering by
@calyxmastering
Transfer & Restoration by
@ripples.berlin /
@san_soda
Photography by
@berylmiss &
@emiledurrergasse
Personal Note
A heartfelt thank you to the artists for trusting us to give their music a second life, to our friends for their unwavering support, and to our fellow record collectors for bringing some of these titles to our ears.
Pre-order the LP now on Bandcamp (link in bio) or from your trusted record shop—just in time to soundtrack the first sunny days.
