Maxx Baer has, without a doubt, neared the pinnacle of his potential on his latest EP, Breathe, released today through Trapdoor Records. The EP, featuring four exquisitely crafted pieces, begins with a swift effort entitled “Caprisun”, a track dominated by an impeccable vocal cut which continually transforms by pitch-shifting and some nifty effects at appropriate times. Drum work, too, including brilliant manipulation of the kicks and some timely hats, allows Maxx to create some staggering drops. The second effort, “Breathe”, offers a glimpse into just how far trap has come as a genre, as Maxx manipulates effortlessly a relatively simplistic sample into an ecstatic evolution of effects and future sounds. By the third track, “Automatic”, you would think you know what’s coming, but the Bristol producer understands this, incorporating some deep, bassy synths while sticking to those frequently used vocal chops. “Automatic” speaks for itself, really, as the synths continue to shine alongside dark and penetrating bass, and Baer continues his quest to startle listeners with the final track, "An Ode To Liberty”, a piece that further illustrates his sonic ingenuity. With the careful combination of house elements and deep, hollow bass, the concluding concoction provides a splendid ending to the EP, and because of it, and the preceding three offerings, we'll take Trapdoor's advice and keep a keen eye and ear on the future work from the UK upstart. Purchase via Bandcamp.
Maxx Baer