It's 2018 and Trump is President. The apocalypse is coming. But if the world's gonna end, we might as well enjoy ourselves while we still can. That's the basis for Gold Codes, the debut solo LP from Cleveland producer/multi-instrumentalist/vocalist Johnny La Rock (ex-Presque Vu, JLRFF) From the edgy pop of the title track to the eurodance synths of"Dance To The Rhythm (Party Time)", the album paints a portrait of a dance floor that serves as a safe place; a release from the chaos and fears of our modern world. At times the tone shifts from a full out dance-floor party vibe to a more moody, yet still upbeat atmosphere. The lyrics on"Alien In This Place" (which veers into industrial/slightly rock-ish territory) and"Korea" capture feelings of loneliness, desperation, and a need for change. Just when you think the fun is about to end, anthems like"210 And A Moustache" (a collaboration with FURFACE) and"Blue Away" pick you right back up, cheering you on in a quest for peace and hope in an age where it may seem hard to find. Rounded out by some chilled out instrumentals (because you can't cut rugs that long without a breather), Gold Codes offers a more textured and emotive brand of dance music. Several of the tracks were mixed and co-produced by Golden Streets of Paradise's Adam Boose, who also mastered the project at Cauliflower Audio. To sum it up quickly, Gold Codes is a cathartic and relatable party record for those grappling with heavy hearts.