Rival Dealer

In a genre filled with dark album covers, record labels called Blackest Ever Black, and terror simply for its own sake, what's the most experimental thing you can do next? Well, Burial answers that question on his new EP by crafting a set of--dare I say it--uplifting tracks. Focused on identity and sexuality this release sees some of the reclusive producer's brightest tracks to date. While still murky and structured in fragmented suites, Burial incorporates 80's synths and drum machines into the mix. It's bound to be a divisive listen, and I still can't quite wrap my head around it, but it's an undoubtedly brave artistic accomplishment. While it does have some heavy-handed moments, it's incredible that Burial is able to convey so many emotions and a sense of narration with the only lyrics coming from brief vocal samples. Worth a listen, and probably most appropriate for evening to late-night DJs. FCC: 1 (unfortunately, as it's my favorite track).

RIYL: How to Dress Well, Burial(?), anti-bullying campaigns

1. (10.46) **** Fast. FCC brief "motherfucker". Sound collage noise before ominous synths and lo-fi female vox sample float in. Killer breakbeats and has the most traditional Burial feel on the album. Spray-paint can samples. Ambient closing. Pretty mind-blowing, exploratory, track.
2. (4:43) * Slow then fast. Nostalgic pop ballad piano with environmental samples. Definitely the most schmaltzy track here, but it strangely grows on you. Kicks into a super 80's feel midway through.
3. (13:07) *** Mid-tempo. Sprawling and again incorporating some 80's pop tropes. Ends with a portion of an acceptance speech made by Lana Wachowski about her transgenderism at the Human Rights Campaign award ceremony. Really touching. DJ Muscat