ORIGINALITY and innovation come together in Prestatyn based Under Alien Skies' ear-pleasing EP detached01 out now.
From the outset, opening track To Part To shuns conventional song-structure as a bare-bones acoustic is joined by a swell of haunting, almost choral vocals.
Backed up by a distinct RnB beat, the genre-mashing reaches a point where labelling ceases to be possible and pigeon-holing it as break-beat chill-out acoustic folk shoegaze rock pop experimental indie still doesn't encapsulate the sound.
A slight departure from previous EPs like Powder and Paste, this is still unmistakably Under Alien Skies, where the four tracks blur into each other hypnotically.
Takewon continues with strong running acoustic, complimented by simple piano while catchy vocal hooks conjure comparisons to the liquid smooth sounds of Kiwi bands like early Phoenix Foundations.
Be Better carries on the soulful flavour before Ritethru takes the textured piano, sampled vocals and synth kits and brings them all together for a carefully layered climax which pulses with 80s sensibilities at whim.
More abstract than previous recorded material, detached01 is an EP which needs to be listened to in its entirety, as each track leans heavily on its predecessor.
And it works well, making Under Alien Skies' latest release more than just another mini album, but rather an experience to be enjoyed over and over again.