Unique sound mesmerizing

Versus Series
Hairy Hands
7-out-of-10

James Bright, a UK based producer otherwise known as Hairy Hands, took his time in creating the Versus Series. It is a collaborative LP that took an entire year to complete, one month spent working with a different artist to ultimately come out with twelve unique and individual tracks.

I like this approach to music making because it opens itself up to an infinite number of possibilities. Each track takes on a separate feel and genre. Spanning acoustic melodies to simplistic electronica and complex synth pop, the Versus Series carries a lot of content. That is my favorite part of the record, allowing it all to feel fresh like each song is leading into its own album. Also, it opens the door to exploring the artists that Bright collaborated with, each with their own personality.

The album, over-all, has an electronic backdrop, split up by passing back and forth on that spectrum. Sometimes incorporating rock or funk rhythms, Bright and his company craft interesting songs set on addictive beats with very compelling jams.

The free flowing feel combined with the complex talent and a strict ear for detail makes the Versus Series a compelling listen.

-SEAN CRAIB-PETKAU

The Boat of the Fragile Mind EP
Belle Mare
7-out-of-10

Brooklyn duo Belle Mare embody's the bedroom/dream pop genre. Their simple and smooth melodies bring to mind Beach House, Grizzly Bear, and The Antlers, while offering something that is uniquely their own as well. The hushed melancholic songs evoke a sense of calm, and the Grace Slick-esque vocals flow soothingly over muted, ambient instruments.

The album has a very interesting sound. It comes across as if you're hearing from afar. Either down a hallway, through a window, or on an old radio, bringing to mind near empty saloons or humid nights in a crowded neighbourhood. It brings a sense of mystery, and latches itself onto your subconscious. The expanding ambience of the background is filled with interesting and subtle sounds, carrying on throughout the record and connecting each track.

Muted piano, strummed acoustics, sporadic electric guitar and gentle synths make up the soundscape for Amelia Bushell to present her beautifully melodic vocals. Her deeper, hushed tone completely envelopes the listener. It's an intriguing voice with many interesting lines to deliver. The addition of so many simple effects and instruments create a rather complex and interesting sound.

The Boat of the Fragile Mind is a very great listen for a quiet evening at home or the darkness of a bedroom, allowing you to drift off in an already dream like state.

-SEAN CRAIB-PETKAU