The winter months hit a bummer point – where you crave being outdoors, and would give a kingdom for a hike, or to see some leaves, or maybe just one flower. If you are missing the big green world, this Lutra EP is here just in time, a soundscape blossoming with keyboard and synthesizers. Each song is a sleepy submersion, a swirling instrumental world to get lost in, one that perhaps feels a bit brighter than the outdoors. The track “Crumple” is an easy welcome, the EP opening with a wavy mix of synths and the distinct vocals style Emit Martin. When the middle of the song bursts into a keyboard solo, it is the perfect interlude; the track doesn’t as much as bring you down as it does carry you along.  

The Portland-based group has taken a collection of clean-cut, relatable lyrics and dipped them into a unique pop world. The EP puts forth a perfect pairing, putting anxious lyrics with breezy electronic sounds, allowing the listener to experience both simultaneously. The production is perfectly lo-fi, and though each song feels full, the lyrical and instrumental intent is never lost. 

For anyone looking to dream their way through the rest of the winter months, this EP is the perfect listen . The band somehow created an album that is characterized by simplicity yet somehow still lush, and it is well worth a listen, or three, or just put it on every day until the season is done. Listen to the the whole release below, or download it from Bandcamp: https://lutraboy.bandcamp.com/.