In the dimly lit studio of his Tucson home, David Pataconi sits before an array of synthesizers and digital workstations, his fingers dancing across the keys with practiced precision. The electronic/industrial rock artist's latest work, Modern Psalms II, wasn't supposed to see the light of day until March 14th, 2025. But fate – or perhaps divine intervention – had other plans.
"Sometimes our greatest mistakes become our biggest blessings," Pataconi reflects, his voice carrying the weight of someone who has stared into the abyss and emerged stronger. The accidental early release of Modern Psalms II on Bandcamp might have been a technical error, but the impact it has had on listeners has been nothing short of miraculous.
2024 brought Pataconi face-to-face with his mortality. A cancer diagnosis threatened to derail not just his musical career but his life itself. Yet, in true artist fashion, he channeled this existential crisis into what many are calling his most powerful work to date. Born out of David's battle with stage 4 cancer, Modern Psalms II represents more than just a collection of songs – it's a testament to human resilience and unwavering faith.
The album, set for physical release through AD Windblown Media Records, showcases Pataconi's evolution as an artist. Since signing with the label in 2020, he has transformed from a studio-only project into a full-fledged performing artist, bringing his unique blend of industrial rock and electronic worship to live audiences.
Modern Psalms II builds upon the foundation laid by its predecessor, but with a deeper, more personal resonance. The album features eleven tracks, including collaborations with artists like TheoTerran and Turn In Line on the opening track "You Alone." Each song weaves together industrial beats, atmospheric synthesizers, and deeply personal lyrics that reflect Pataconi's spiritual journey through his health struggles.
The track listing reveals a carefully crafted narrative arc, from the collaborative opener through introspective pieces like "Holy" and "Meet Me Here," culminating in the powerful "Psalm 18 (You Are My Light)." The latter, as Pataconi recently shared, holds particular significance in his current journey.
In early 2025, what started as a technical mishap – the premature release of the album on Bandcamp – turned into what Pataconi now sees as a divine appointment. As he explained on social media, "Since God has already used it to help some people, I'm leaving it alone." This decision speaks volumes about the artist's priorities: impact over commerce, ministry over marketing.
Known in the electronic music scene for his "evocative music for the nostalgic future," Pataconi has carved out a unique niche in the industrial rock landscape. His sound combines the raw energy of industrial rock with the uplifting messages of modern worship music, creating something entirely his own.
As part of the AD Windblown Media Records roster, Pataconi stands alongside other boundary-pushing artists in the alternative Christian music scene. His work bridges the gap between traditional worship music and modern electronic production, creating a sound that resonates with both secular and religious audiences.
Modern Psalms II showcases Pataconi's growth as a producer and songwriter. Each track is meticulously crafted, leveraging his years of experience in electronic music production. The album features a rich tapestry of sounds, from vintage synthesizers to modern digital production techniques, all while maintaining the raw emotional core that has become his trademark.
What sets Modern Psalms II apart isn't just its musical innovation – it's the story behind its creation. Each song carries the weight of Pataconi's personal battles, his fears, his hopes, and ultimately, his faith. //www.threads.net/@david_pataconi" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" class="css-xb37zd e178251s3">The album includes instrumental tracks designed for reflection, allowing listeners to process their own journeys through the sonic landscapes he creates.
While the album's early release might have disrupted the traditional marketing timeline, it has created an organic buzz within the industrial rock community. The physical release through AD Windblown Media Records on March 14th, 2025, will include special packaging and bonus content not available in the digital release.
Pataconi's influence extends beyond his music. Well-known online for his dad jokes as much as his music, he has built a community around his art that transcends traditional genre boundaries. His openness about his health struggles has created a deeper connection with his audience, turning what could have been a career-ending diagnosis into a testimony of resilience.
Modern Psalms II stands as more than just another industrial rock album. It represents the intersection of personal tragedy, artistic expression, and spiritual awakening. In a genre often associated with darkness and rebellion, Pataconi has created something that brings light and hope while maintaining the industrial edge that fans have come to expect.
Despite the challenges of his health situation, Pataconi continues to look forward. He's already begun breaking down each track's meaning and background through social media, giving fans deeper insight into the album's creation and meaning. This level of transparency and connection with his audience has become a hallmark of his artistic approach.
In the end, Modern Psalms II is more than just a collection of songs – it's a chronicle of survival, faith, and the power of music to heal. Whether through the accidental early release or the upcoming physical release, the album stands as a testament to the human spirit's capacity to create beauty from pain. For David Pataconi, the journey continues, one song at a time.
