Simon Hinter - Better Life

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  • Here we go again. Another vinyl-only, limited pressing label. Often, such tactics mask the fact that music is of a sub-standard level. However, the third release on Phil (the first was catalogued as PHIL000) needs no such gimmicks. The EP opens with "Better Life," a melancholy slow burner that seethes with feeling. Hinter's production style is akin to Melchoir and early Pronsato, eschewing peaktime sounds for clever percussion and sturdy basslines. "Moody Mode" is a jazzy number that seems to be more filler than killer, considering the other pieces on the EP. Comprised of chopped-up drums, distant trumpet and smooth subs, it's nice, but falls short of the tracks that surround it. "Soul" and "Some Day" make up the b-side. The latter pulls off a similar trick to "Better Life," but this time with dub chords and sparse reverb. "Soul," though, is the highlight of the EP. Starting with a subtle bass and acoustic guitar riffs, it evolves and clicks its way to the breakdown with ease and soul. Once it kicks back in, we are treated to deep bass and a synth solo that hints at years of musical talent.
  • Tracklist
      A1 Better Life A2 Moody Mode B1 Soul B2 Some Day
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