Ellis
Self-Released, 2021
8/10
A new project from the veteran musician Tim Husmann, as 1st Base Runner he brings along Bryan Ellis for a small handful of very stylish and diverse songs that are all heavy on atmosphere.
The 5 track listen opens with the beat driven electro-pop of “Near Me”, where a dreamy quality and subtle post-punk nods enter the mesmerizing climate, and “Flux” follows with a low buzzing that’s a bit darker in scope and fits in quite well with today’s indie-rock but still points towards the early days of alt-rock, too.
Halfway through, “Numbers” moves a bit slower with a textured presence that’s New Wave influenced, while “WXW” offers calm melodies under a haze of warmth. “Man Overboard” exits the listen and might be the best track, as charming keys, trip-hop, and gothic ideas unfold with a hypnotic appeal.
An eclectic outing that’s likely to bring to mind names as wide as Radiohead, Nine Inch Nails, and Aphex Twin, this quick listen is a great way to introduce yourself to a very talented mind.
Travels well with: Daydream Three- The Lazy Revolution; Pulsar Ensemble- Bizarre City