Qua’s second album, Painting Monsters On Clouds is an unrepentantly gorgeous and nostalgic mix of sunlit electronics and guitars, buoyed by complex arrangements, and crafted by a gentle iconoclast. The albums 11 tracks bring to mind the playfulness of Mouse On Mars, the sophistication of Ennio Morricone, and the quirky pop of Architecture In Helsinki. Though the tone may be predominantly light, with the whimsical nature of the tunes often cloaking their complexity, a careful listen reveals Qua’s dedication to craftsmanship and eye toward the miniscule. Painting Monsters On Clouds is both beautiful and harsh; is as exciting as it is soothing; and is the perfect second step by a sound designer continuing to solidify his own style.