III [HF013] by EMS

The third iteration of EMS’s synth trilogy stands as an intensified expression of the introspection permeating previous instalments, I & II. Stripped of most percussion throughout, III communicates an ambivalence that slowly transforms into positive imaginaries of the future. Carried by lush and warm synths and obfuscated voice recordings, III carries through the most lonely and quiet times and into better, more grounded days.

Opening the EP, “Brother”, is scored by ephemeral synths embracing a childhood field recording. A serenade not only to the relations one is born into, “Brother” captures a feeling of pride on the behalf of others and the joys that follow. 

Dropping into the depths of post-breakup reorientation, “Limbo”, explores the close entanglement of longing and grief within the process of transformation. While moments of almost eerie quiet and loneliness may at times carry physical weight, they often contain the robust parts on which a new everyday life can be reassembled.

Releasing the more solemn atmosphere of the two opening tracks into newfound optimism, the title track channels a sense of weightlessness and a deep feeling of joy. With synths barely able to contain their playfulness, the EP ends on a note that communicates something as simple as autonomy.