★★★★☆
Graciously sharing this tasting plate of tracks that were written around the same time as those that made it ontoSkin, Flume keeps fans’ hunger for new music satisfied with an aural smorgasbord of decadent and cerebral ear candy.
On opener ‘Trust’, there’s a dreamlike nostalgia and memories of childhood conveyed by the Kalimba sample that weaves its way in and out of the track. Flume takes a less radio-friendly approach here, the arrangements feeling more like textural tapestries, crafted with absolute care and attention to detail.
‘V’ pushes syncopation to the realms of mind-boggling extremities, showing off a depth of experimentation, as the wash of what sounds like metallic rain cools the soul. After shifting further from the commercial sound that’s earned him no shortage of accolades, Flume reminds us how on point he can be with ‘Heater’. There’s an air of safeness that steps away from the exploratory nature of the rest of the EP and makes this track feel like the weakest link, even though on its own, it’s beautiful.
Closing off this collection of unconventional sounds is ‘Quirk’, and with unparalleled control and finesse, Flume’s execution and experimentation pushes boundaries while still maintaining a clear vision.
Flume’sSkin Companion EPis available now through Future Classic.
