#eighthrs

Producer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist EIGHTHRS (8 hours) has been diving headfirst into mastering their sound and music as a one-man band. Although taking on this solo-project, this artist is also part of Philadelphia based indie-pop group Besphrenz, who have built a dedicated fanbase of 95,000+ monthly Spotify listeners since releasing their first single in 2016.

'Vol.4' marks the final increment in this 16 song project for EIGHTHRS, who challenged themselves to not only release solo work but do so within only a few months. With EPs 'Vol.1', 'Vol.2' and 'Vol.3' preceding this release, this hefty body of work shows great dedication from an individual clearing looking to hone their talents to perfection. With their mini EP serving as a learning process, it truly charts the growth and hard-work poured in to make this a reality.

We're introduced to Vol.4 with track one 'Melting', that's immediately smooth just like the narrative fed in this release, telling the story of a lover who they're utterly falling for. The softened instrumentals embody an electronic turned indie feel, taking things slow despite the lyrical urge to jump into things head-first with their newest romance. Lines like 'I've been melting in your hands' emphasise the romantic form and love-struck nature of the track.

Followed by 'How We Talk', we hear an abstract use of vocal effects that bring a wackiness and retro disco styled atmosphere in a modern setting. Quickly spoken and paired with a fast paced beat, this catchy gem is easy to get looped in your mind. This funky style and amalgamation of different elements keeps the tone upbeat and engaging even when the lyricism doesn't have the same sunny tone. With lines like 'Every time I'm alone I call you on the phone, but you're not saying a lot' leaving you feeling that this upbeat release is not all sweet below the surface.

'FREAKED OUT!' is more stripped and laid-back from the get-go, while continuing the prominent vocal effects perfect for this easy-listening session. Lyrically, we begin to fall into the deeper story of the EP through this addition as the reluctancy of this romance and the loss of the initial magic starts to show itself. The upbeat sound continues to truly juxtaposes the content, thus making this little EP infectiously fun while still perfect for those listening deeper.

Closing not only this EP, but this lengthy project, is 'Hang On.' Blissful piano sets up the tender atmosphere, before throwing us back into the heavily edited vocals. Starting off strong, the effects fade out and back in multiple times perhaps representing lowering your walls and showing more intimacy before closing back up all over again. This rawness amongst a more processed feel is incredibly unique and originally implemented, making this closure of the project an interesting track to conclude with.

'Vol.4' truly showcases the work of an artist who's given their all to this project, and with the multifaceted lyricism and sound it's perfect for anyone wanting to relax or listen deeper. It ultimately challenges listeners to dig further into what they're listening along to, with a sunny tone misleading for the lyricism that tells another story. Give the whole EP a spin here, to enjoy plentiful chilled tracks among poignant storytelling for all your listening needs.

Written by: Tatiana Whybrow

Photo Credits: Emily Paige Townsend