Review Summary: Not one moment of faltering.
Let's recap a bit, shall we?
Underground folk-singer Andrew Huang released two albums and one EP in the course of 4 years showcasing a very mature, but thoroughly drenched in nostalgia, young man with some serious musical skills and amazing songwriting. Following this came an album full of glitchy electronic rhythms, unorthodox songwriting and rapping with some singing thrown in, showing a very different musician. And now comes the question: What will he do next?
Release an EP consisting of 6 downtempo trip-hop beats he made between 2002 and 2005. You know, the usual.
It is truly baffling how Andrew crawls through all of these different genres without even showing a bit of slacking in quality. The 6 songs found on this EP are all extremely solid and relaxing, with great melodies and exceptional timing. The production values are ridiculously high, especially when you know that these pieces were made several years before his debut album under his name. His knack for earcandy is already at full force, greeting us with all kinds of strange yet pleasant sounds that massage our ears.
Also, seeing how this is technically speaking a compilation EP, you should also note how well this album flows. Every track glides smoothly into the next. Not one occasion of atmospheric whiplash is felt anywhere. Speaking of highlights on this EP is impossible, since every track is so distinctive yet perfectly placed. My suggestion is that you just search for a comfortable armchair, grab a cup of tea and relax a bit.
In conclusion, listen to this. The only downside this EP has is just that it is way to short. Once this EP is over you are left yearning for more. Of course, you can re-listen to it, but it would've been nice having more on this record. Although, overall this is still some top-notch work by Mr. Huang.
