Ecstasy
Exhale
December 9 2013 (National Anthem)
9.5/10
Words: Dave Beech
Though it's coming late to the game, 'Exhale' could very well be one of the best EPs I've had the pleasure of reviewing this year. Marking London quartet Ecstasy's debut release on National Anthem (Haim Chvrches), it comprises four tracks of irresistible dream-pop atmospherics and sugary synth loops that sound, somewhat fittingly, like Chvrches would do after a weekend on the band's namesake pharmaceutical (which, by all accounts, is never a bad thing). There is more to it than that, however, and despite there being very little information on Ecstasy at the moment (no bad jokes, please) 'Exhale' feels like the record that's going to get more than a select few excited about them.
Beginning with an imposing synth that mounts in tandem with a vocal duality, the lead single 'Exhale' is an uplifting and powerful track that's sure to get every indie club in the country on its feet over the coming months. From there on, 'Exhale' carries on in a similar vein with the following three tracks each hitting the high standards set out by the first.
Perhaps the highlight of the record comes in the form of 'White Limos', a track which would be a fantastic way to start a set. Here the band's shoegaze influences really shine through; a huge wall of synth mounts behind a secondary loop, whilst the melody of the vocal track works more like a separate instrument than a means of conveying the lyrics in a manner somewhat similar to Sigur Ros.
Everyone knows how successful a year 2013 has been for both Haim and Chvrches, you can't help but think that National Anthem may be more than just an indie label. As for Ecstasy, their blissed out, synth driven dream-pop would make a more than fitting addition to any festival worth its salt when summer eventually rolls around.
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