Fathom
Self-Released, 2020
8/10
A very atypical alt-rock outfit comprised of Cliff Littlefield and Roy Mitchell-Cardenas, this 5th release from the duo brings us an extremely varied and sonically engaging experience that few could replicate.
The title track starts the quick listen with ambience before spirited guitars and a dense mood surround the soulful vocals in a post-rock inspired opening, and “I’m Gone” continues that atmosphere with playful synth amid a dreamy setting of electro-pop that tips it hat to the ‘80s.
The back half of the listen offers us “Things That Matter Most”, where the duo manipulate space and tension well in the curious, prog-rock influenced tune, and “Lonely Still” ends the listen soft and agile, in a spacey conclusion that’s both ominous and fascinating.
A well layered effort that often flows with a cinematic quality, the pair are both nostalgic and progressive here, and never follow any predictable patterns in this exciting and mesmerizing EP.
Travels well with: Drifting In Silence- Away; Lights Fluorescent- Kingdoms