![Jack Garratt SYNESTHESIAC]()
Jack Garratt – Synesthesiac EP – 8.5/10
Island Records
Synesthesia is a phenomenon where stimulation of one or more senses leads to an automatic experience in a second sensory pathway. It’s anything from saying someones name and tasting a certain food, to eating candy and seeing colors. I know, it’s crazy. The new EP by Jack Garratt is rightly named Synesthesiac. There are four songs: Synesthesia, The Love You’ve Given, Chemical, and Lonesome Valley. All are a mind trip – dubstep, electro-funk, and cinematic waves of sound wax and wane through your head, and it’s fantastic.
The first song starts with the noise of papers turning, and drumsticks clacking. But it’s no indication of anything you’ve heard before. Sweet bells and a muffled bass rise into a smooth groove, with deep savory dubstep beats sans vocals. Piano introduces each transition, with short succinct segments.
The other songs are just as good and truly unique. The Love You’re Given is a chill hip-hop composition with lyrics talking about giving and not receiving. Chemical is something heavier, but I won’t spoil the rest, just give em’ a listen. The last song is a little lacking, but the overall feel of this EP is adventurous, pleasurable, and very hypnotic. It’s an eclectic track list that will have you wanting for more.