Not to be confused with Portugal’s electro-lo-fi artist Dreams; Jesse Pimenta from LA also records under the same moniker, yet his music couldn’t be much different. New EP Feelings 4 U is a glorious Dilla inspired throwback, instrumental hip-pop in it’s element. Released through Absent Fever, the lovechild of Eloise (verb/re/verb) and Tyler (Flashlight Tag), the digital label is proving rather prolific with this being their eleventh outing in under a year.
Feelings 4 U embodies the swagger of UK beat maestro Star Slinger, with the soulful vibes of minimalist producer Balam Acab. Our Theme Song is so desirably danceable that I defy anyone to resist the urge to prance around their room like a deranged lunatic; I know I did. Title track Feelings 4 U is another hip-hop beauty, sampling vocals over the top of looped synths to energizing effect.
Where Feelings 4 U slips up slightly is in the variety of tracks on the release, with almost all nine cuts following a similar production formula. EP closer Secret Lover is perhaps the greatest deviation from the trend, with a more down-beat feel, providing an interesting contrast to the tracks before it. All in all, it’s a very promising release, and not only cements Dreams as a respectable recording artist, but furthers Absent Fevers reputation as one of the most forward thinking labels around.
Check out some choice cuts from the EP and head over to the Dreams bandcamp to grab Feelings 4 U for free.