The Double Headed Seagulls aren’t your run-of-the-mill electronic artists — this outfit has been at it for a long time, right from their early explorations into the world of music, to their work of today — and after a hiatus, they present their latest album, “Play Artful” — keep reading for my thoughts!
“Full Oxford”, the first track off this 4-track EP, is a lush carpet of sound, delicately woven together; be it the pads that surround you with a warm, mellow sound, or the gentle plucks of the electric guitars in the background, this track sets the stage quite early on, almost as if to give us a glimpse of what the rest of “Play Artful” is going to be about. The basses make their rounds as well, and the woodwinds play yet another part to complete this beautifully ambient, atmospheric track.
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Segueing into the second track, we get to the title track of the EP — and “Play Artful” (the track) is an excellent example of experimental sound design. From using guitar pick scratches as beatkeeping elements, to the sound design with the synths across every layer of the song, this song is nothing short of delicious tiramisu; in that you’re always left going for a second helping, and then another.
The whole of “Play Artful” has this sense of expertise and skillful sound design at the helm — and I shouldn’t be surprised; for in an era where music feels polished and predictable at every turn, there’s this element of surprise that this EP absolutely nails.
The production on the EP is varied yet cohesive — like multiple people coming together to spread one gospel. Contrast, complementing harmonies, and free-time is where this presentation shines; staying avoidant of the tried-and-tested, and doing a bang-up job of sounding pristine while at it.
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As we round “Play Artful” out with Doss Money, the sound comes full circle — a grounded, relaxed number that brings you back to Earth from the cosmos. The sparkly synths dally delicately with the Rhodes pianos, while the clean electrics keep steady pace.
All in all, “Play Artful” by The Double Headed Seagulls — a livening breath of fresh air that isn’t afraid to push the boundaries — heck, to redefine them entirely. The epitome of self-expression, this album is more than worth a listen. Check it out here!
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